Discover metallic surface options I Millwork & Cabinetry I REHAU

Set the mood with metal

How to select the perfect surface for your design

Metal has moved beyond appliances and fixtures. Lustrous and refined, metallic surfaces are redefining modern interiors. Their subtle shimmer catches the light, creating dynamic spaces that feel both luxurious and contemporary. From cool silvers that whisper metropolitan chic to warm bronzes that evoke aged elegance, metallic finishes add depth and drama to kitchens, bars, bathrooms and more.

With so many options available, how do you choose the right metallic surface for your project? Let’s explore the key qualities to consider and the most popular metallic surfaces in today’s interiors.

What should I look for in a metallic surface?

1. Resistance to daily wear and tear:

Look for durable features such as fingerprint, impact, scratch and stain resistance for lasting designs

2. Double-sided metallic doors or panels:

Key for applications where both sides are visible, ensuring a cohesive look

3. Soft touch finish:

Adds tactile interest and a high-end feel that gives your clients an elevated experience

4. Rich color and depth perspective:

Brings a distinct, dimensional metallic shimmer to your designs

What are popular metallic surface options?

1. Real metal sheets

Authentic look for high-end designs

For projects where authenticity matters, real metal sheets deliver the signature metallic look. These thick sheets provide depth, texture and durability, making them ideal for luxurious kitchens or statement bars. While metal sheets are an excellent choice for high-end designs, they come with limitations: higher cost, heavier weight and the need for specialized skillsets and tools. They can also be sensitive to temperatures, especially if they are applied to low-pressure laminate backers or are used with hot glue. In addition, extra care must be taken to not bend or distort the laminate during fabrication.

2. Metal foil high-pressure laminate (HPL)

Realistic look & cost-effective

High-pressure laminate (HPL) is made of pressed decorative paper, kraft paper and resins. To mimic metal, aluminum or other metallic foil is bonded to the kraft paper layers. This is a practical way to achieve a realistic look without the expense and fabrication drawbacks that come with thicker metal sheets. While cost-effective, the metal foil can dent or pierce easily, so it’s better suited for areas with minimal wear.

3. Metallic lacquer or paint

Flexible design & custom color

For ultimately original designs, metallic lacquer or paint unlocks endless creative possibilities. This option allows clients to showcase their individuality by creating metallic finishes in custom colors. However, using lacquer or paint is a labor-intensive process that requires special equipment and adherence to specific safety protocols, such as proper ventilation.

Clear PET applied over metal foil - 100105445

4. Clear polyethylene terephthalate (PET) applied over metal foil

Approachable metallic appeal

This option involves laminating metal foil to a wood substrate and finishing it with a clear polyethylene terephthalate (PET) film. It delivers a true metallic look at a lower cost, making it attractive for budget-conscious projects. However, metal foil is fragile— it can tear during processing and peel away from the wood substrate. Care must be taken when removing the protective peel coat to avoid damaging the decorative metal foil. As a result, this option is better suited for low-traffic areas or accent applications where durability is less critical.

5. Solid polyethylene terephthalate (PET) laminate

Sophistication meets resilience

Solid polyethylene terephthalate (PET) laminate features layers of metallic color secured between transparent layers, all finished with a lacquered metallic print. Its soft touch surface is resistant to fingerprints, impact, scratches and stains. Unlike metal foil laminates that dent or pierce easily, solid PET offers superior durability and resists delamination, making it ideal for high-moisture areas such as kitchens and bathrooms. It’s also easier on tooling than real metal. While this surface combines aesthetics with performance, scratches cannot be repaired, so proper care and cleaning are essential to maintain its appearance.

Exploring the strengths and limitations of metallic surfaces helps you design interiors that balance beauty and functionality. From sleek urban kitchens to warm inviting bars, these finishes turn ordinary spaces into bold, sophisticated statements.

Ready to bring the luxurious look of metal into your next project? Discover our RAUVISIO ferro metallic PET surface:

Cast in refinement with RAUVISIO ferro

Light a spark of sophistication in your space with RAUVISIO ferro™ metallic PET surface. From all directions, eyes catch the warm or cool tones of this metal-inspired material. Glide your fingertips along its double-sided contours without leaving a trace.

Learn more Request a sample

Overview of metallic surface options:

	Advantages	Limitations
Real metal sheets	Most authentic metallic look Thick sheets offer depth, texture and durability	Requires specialized skillset, fabrication and tools Heavier than alternate options Sensitive to temperatures (especially when applied to low-pressure laminate backers or used with hot glue)
Metal foil high-pressure laminate (HPL)	Somewhat cost-effective Metal foil on HPL offers realistic metallic look	Can easily pierce or dent Cannot be repaired if scratched
Metallic lacquer or paint	Flexible design options Wide color range	Requires special equipment Must follow specific safety protocols (e.g., proper ventilation) Labor-intensive process Least authentic appearance Cannot be repaired if scratched
Clear polyethylene terephthalate (PET) applied over metal foil	Real metal foil Cost-effective	Very fragile Risk of foil tearing during processing Care must be taken when removing protective peel coat Cannot be repaired if scratched
Solid polyethylene terephthalate (PET) laminate	Soft touch finish Fingerprint, impact, stain and scratch resistant More resilient than metal foil laminates Solid PET with no delamination Easier on equipment than real metal Double-sided finished cabinet door or panel	Cannot be repaired if scratched