Interview with Kevin Lowe of The Inspired Bath
When did the Matte Black trend begin?
Matte Black became substantially popular within the last 18 months. The black finish has been around for a few years in design centers but has been adopted more mainstream since late 2017.
As to be expected, Kohler was leading the black matte trends and as it has become more widely sought after other manufacturers have incorporated it into their product offering.
How did the Matte Black finish evolve?
For many years, the contemporary design category really only had chrome and satin finished offered for most of the styles, while other categories like traditional, have added finishes like Chrome and Brushed Bronze. It was time for a new finish to be introduced for modern designs to offer customers more options.
We are seeing Matte Black paired with gold as gold is also becoming a popular finish in the contemporary category.
Where is Matte black most often used?
The Matte Black finish is most popular in the bathroom. Homeowners can even add this finish to shower doors and accessories because manufactures have increased the number of products that feature this finish. Since Matte Black is available in a whole bath suite it allows for a nicely unified design.
What is most commonly paired with the Matte Black in the bathroom?
White and gray stone are most commonly paired with the Matte Black finish. These colors are often selected for bathrooms because they are timeless. Pairing a basic palette with Matte Black is striking and creates a clean look that serves as a neutral backdrop for other design elements like backsplash, vanity materials or wall color.
How durable is Matte Black as a finish?
Matte Black is a power coated finish, which means it is very durable. However, each manufacturer has it’s own warranty on finishes and should be noted before purchase. Things such as hard water, calcium or soaps can show residue on this particular finish. We would not recommend Matte Black to a customer who has untreated hard water.
What Matte Black products do you offer in showroom?
We proudly display Kohler Components, Symmons, Maax, Jaclo, Moen, and Brizo in our Waltham Showroom and our Dartmouth showroom. As with most of our product lines, if we do not display the product in a particular finish, we can order it.
What do you see for the future of the Matte Black finish?
Personally, I do not see Matte Black fading as trend any time soon. It is somewhat of a neutral and timeless design element. Similar to the chrome finish, it can be compatible with many designs.