Kitchens in Mumbai

Living in Mumbai is a challenge because of what I call "The Triple Threat". You have to deal with high humidity, salty air from the sea and the monsoon that just does not stop. When you are in the kitchen, which's basically the center of our home this combination of humidity, salt and monsoon can cause a lot of problems. The kitchen is also a place where we cook. That means there is a lot of steam and heat. This can lead to cabinets getting all warped mold growing everywhere and hinges getting all rusty. All of this can happen in a few seasons.

If you are thinking of renovating your home in places, like Vashi, Worli or Juhu I want to share with you the materials that can actually withstand the Mumbai coast. Here is what you need to know for 2026:

1. The Core: BWP Marine Plywood vs. PVC

Standard MR plywood is not good enough for this. You need materials that can really handle water not kind of handle it.

BWP Marine Ply is the choice for Mumbai. You should look for IS: 710 plywood. This type of plywood uses a kind of glue called phenol-formaldehyde resin that keeps it waterproof forever. BWP Marine Ply is heavier. It holds screws really well better, than almost any other material. Wood Plastic Composite and PVC Boards are really good choices. They are completely waterproof and termites will not be able to damage them.

The Pro-Tip is to use PVC for the cabinet under the sink because that is where leaks usually happen.

For the rest of the kitchen it is better to use Wood Plastic Composite for the cabinets and shelves because it is stronger.

2. The Countertop

Quartz is a popular choice for kitchen countertops. Even though Granite has been a favorite for a long time people are now choosing Engineered Quartz for their kitchens especially for homes near the coast, in the year 2026. Quartz is really great because it is non-porous. This means it does not soak up moisture or salt from the air like marble or low quality granite does. So you do not have to worry about bacteria growing inside the quartz.

Quartz is also very easy to take care of. It does not need any sealing to keep it in good condition. If you live in a humid place this is a plus. You can just put it in. Not have to think about it again.

The finish on quartz is also very good. It has a layer of acrylic and glass over the veneer. This is especially useful if you live near the ocean. The salt, in the air can make natural wood veneers swell up and peel off. Quartz does not have this problem.

Acrylic Finishes: These give you a shiny look that is totally non-porous. If you spill something like haldi on it or if it is really humid it will not seep into the surface.

Lacquered Glass: If you want your place to look premium you should consider back-painted glass shutters. These are great because they can handle moisture well and are very easy to clean even on a really rainy day.

3. The hardware that you do not see is really important: Anti-Corrosion Hardware

Most people spend a lot of money on how things look. They try to save money on the hinges. In a city, like Mumbai that is a mistake. You should use Acrylic Finishes or Lacquered Glass with Anti-Corrosion Hardware to keep your place looking good. When it comes to the hardware for your home you should make sure that the hinges and the drawer slides and the handles are all made of Stainless Steel 304 grade or even better. The regular nickel-plated hardware is not good enough because it will start to get rusty and pit within six months if your home is facing the sea.

You should look for brands that have close mechanisms and these brands should also be giving you a special warranty that is meant for coastal areas.

4. Ventilation

Now let us talk about ventilation. Ventilation is very important because it helps to keep the air moving. This is what kills the moisture. No material is completely safe, from mold if the air is not moving at all.

High-Suction Chimneys: In Mumbai you need a chimney that can suck out a lot of air at 1200 cubic meters per hour to get rid of the heavy steam from cooking near the coast.

Aluminum Ventilation Slats: You should put small aluminum vents in your cabinet designs so that the inside of the cabinet can get some air and does not smell bad during the monsoon season when it gets really humid.

The 2026 Verdict

If you are trying to decide between companies, like Livspace or local designers always ask them for a list of the materials they will use which is called a Material Specification Sheet so you know what you are getting with High-Suction Chimneys and Aluminum Ventilation Slats. Ensure they aren't swapping BWP for cheaper BWR ply. In Mumbai, the difference between "Water Resistant" and "Waterproof" is the difference between a 5-year kitchen and a 20-year kitchen.

Would you like me to create a "Material Selection Checklist" you can take to your next meeting with an interior designer?