For kitchen cabinets, what kind of laminate should I use - decorative or acrylic?

When you're choosing a finish for kitchen cabinets, the decision between decorative and acrylic laminates usually comes down to the style you're after and what you want to spend. Both are good options; they just do different things.

Decorative laminates are the versatile, value-for-money choice. They're made by bonding resin-impregnated decorative papers into a hard, durable sheet, and they come in an enormous range of colours, patterns and textures - including very convincing wood grains and stone effects. That breadth of choice, combined with a lower price, is their big advantage: you can achieve almost any look without the cost or upkeep of natural materials, which is why they're so widely used on kitchen cabinetry.

Acrylic laminates are the premium, high-gloss option. They use a durable acrylic layer bonded to a substrate to create a smooth, mirror-like surface with deep, vivid colour. That finish resists scratches, UV fading and moisture well and holds its colour over time, while the reflective surface bounces light around and can make a kitchen feel brighter and more spacious. The trade-offs are a higher price and a narrower (though striking) range of mostly solid, glossy shades.

So if you value variety, practicality and cost-effectiveness, decorative laminates are likely the better fit; if you want a sleek, modern, high-gloss kitchen and don't mind paying more, acrylic is the one to choose. Whichever you pick, it's worth choosing a reputable brand, and if you're unsure our team can help you match the finish to your kitchen.