For several years, prints that I make here are taken to a local graphics company, where the prints are mounted to Gator foam (1/2", 3/4" or 1" thickness), laminated with a satin product, edge banded with melamine, and treated on the rear face for hanging. Smaller prints such as 20" x 30" are routed on the rear face to accept typical hangers; large prints receive small block of wood on all four corners with eyelet screws.
The cost is quite low and the appearance, particularly when well lit, is quite good. The satin laminate detracts some from Dmax, contrast and overall punch, but it's not a killer. Post-printing costs for a 44" x 66" piece is about $180, just as an example.
Canson Baryta Photographique or Epson Legacy Baryta is the default paper, but some images look good on metallic paper. Metallic papers pop most with a glossy, rather than satin, laminate.
Archivists won't agree with this approach, but for *most* uses here, it's great. I rarely miss the days of matting, framing and Museum Glass.
John Caldwell
Pittsburgh, PA