JOIN US

What Is Shaker Style Cabinet? The Classic Choice For Any Kitchen Design

What is shaker style cabinet high quality materials
Share This Article

Table of Contents

This post may contain affiliate links, which means we’ll receive a commission if you purchase through our link, at no extra cost to you. Please read the full disclosure here.

What Is Shaker Style Cabinet? The Classic Choice For Any Kitchen Design

What is shaker style cabinet high quality materials
Share This Article

Table of Contents

This post may contain affiliate links, which means we’ll receive a commission if you purchase through our link, at no extra cost to you. Please read the full disclosure here.

What is shaker style cabinet? After reading this post you may come to the conclusion that shaker style cabinets might be just the thing for you! These cabinets have become synonymous with simplicity and practicality and they will continue to be a popular choice for homeowners looking to achieve a timeless and sophisticated look for their kitchen.

One of the most attractive features of shaker style cabinets is their versatility. They can be used in a variety of different styles and colors and in this blog post, we will explore the features and benefits of shaker style cabinets and how you can incorporate them into your own kitchen.

What is shaker style cabinet?

Shaker style cabinets have square edges and a boxy shape. Traditionally they are made of a big rectangle with a smaller square inside it. There are a bunch of different modern variations of the shaker cabinet but simply put, a shaker style cabinet is a four-sided frame with the middle part pushed in.

These cabinets are called ‘shaker style’ to pay homage to the “shakers”, a religious group from early U.S history who valued simplicity and practicality over material possessions, their values were reflected in their kitchen cabinet designs by giving their cabinets a simple yet efficient look.
shaker kitchen Cabinets solid wood different versions

The main difference between shaker cabinets and regular cabinets is the design. Shaker cabinets look very plain when compared to other styles of cabinets. They were made to be practical and not fancy. Shaker cabinets are known for their minimal and clean look.

Another way you can tell the difference between shaker cabinets and other types of cabinets is by the style of the door. Modern shaker cabinets have flat panel doors, recessed panel doors and some feature thin rail-and-stile doors for a more sleek look but they all make up the unique kitchen style that is known as the ‘Shaker’ style. These door styles are all simple and understated with little to no decorative details or intricate designs.

Modern styles of shaker kitchen cabinets provide a variety of options to fit different design preferences and needs, while still maintaining the simplicity and timeless aesthetic that shaker cabinetry is known for.

Shaker style cabinets also typically feature minimal hardware, simple drawer pulls and handles. A modern shaker style door as-well as a traditional shaker design will always have a clean look that keeps the focus on the idea of simple and practical cabinetry.

What makes a cabinet “Shaker Style”

3 Styles of Door

What is shaker cabinets shaker cabinet doors
There are a lot of different versions of shaker cabinets but in general the basic shaker style cabinets are characterized by their door styles, which include flat panel doors, recessed panel doors, and doors that have a thin stile-and-rail.  All of these door styles have the same basic characteristics, which are clean lines, simple construction, square edges and minimal decorative elements. This is what gives shaker style cabinets their clean and timeless look.

Flat Panel Doors

flat panel shaker cabinet door
Flat panel shaker doors have a simple, flat surface that is usually surrounded by a frame. This timeless style is ideal for a kitchen because it creates a look that never goes out of style.

Recessed Panel Doors

White shaker cabinets shaker kitchen cabinet doors

Shaker doors that have a panel that is set back from the frame, creating a more pronounced depth and shadow effect. This look works well in traditional and modern spaces

Thin Stile & Rail

Modern kitchens shaker cabinet frame example
This style of shaker doors are made up of a frame with a thin stile and rail and a flat panel in the center. This style more unique in Shaker-style cabinets and works well to create a timeless, classic look.

These door styles are all simple and understated, with no decorative details or intricate designs. This is what makes the Shaker style so timeless and a popular choice for many homeowners.

Simplicity

Shaker cabinets have a simple and unique style. They often have light finishes, a recessed center panel, and inset doors. The hardware is usually just knobs or handles. Most shaker cabinets are neutral colors like white, gray, or light wood tones.

If you’re a person that values simplicity, shaker cabinets will be a great choice for you.

No Ornamentation or Decorative Elements

Shaker style cabinets are known for their simple, minimalistic design that has very little or no ornamentation/decorative elements. This is part of what makes the shaker cabinet so timeless and versatile.

The lack of intricate details of shaker cabinets also helps to create a clean look that will never go out of style.

Rectangular Shape

rectangular shape shaker style kitchen cabinet example
Shaker cabinets are also known for their boxy look. The general overall look of shaker cabinets is a four-cornered rectangular frame with an inset panel. Any curves are gentle, and most lines are straight lines. The formal name for the panel-and-frame structure of a Shaker cabinet is rail-and-stile construction. The rail represents the frames top and bottom, and the stile refers to the length-side that goes up and down. All Together, a Shaker cabinet is made up of five pieces — the panel, two stiles (top & bottom) and two rails (left & right sides). This simple construction is what made shaker cabinets so popular for years.

Simple Hardware

shaker kitchen shaker cabinetry with simple hardware
When it comes to the hardware for shaker kitchen cabinets, less is more. Shaker style doors are known for their tasteful simplicity and subtle knobs or handles that help create a simple visual aesthetic.

There are a lot of options for cabinet door hardware but shaker cabinets do well with hardware that has a sleek look that perfectly complements the simplistic design of shaker cabinets. Instead of being decorative, think minimalistic, that is the philosophy behind shaker cabinetry.

Focus on Functionality

Shaker kitchen cabinets focus on functionality and practicality. This style originated with a shaker community, a religious community which called themselves the united society of believers. This community valued simplicity and utility in their everyday objects. The clean lines, square or rectangular shape, and lack of decorative elements are all aimed at creating a practical and efficient kitchen space.

This focus on functionality and practicality has made shaker style kitchen cabinets a popular choice for those looking for a timeless and efficient kitchen design that can stand the test of time.

Neutral Colors Work Best with Shaker Style Cabinets

neutral colors that work with shaker style kitchen cabinets
A neutral color palette is very commonly used with shaker kitchen cabinets and is a key aspect of why they are so popular. Neutral colors, such as whites, grays, or light wood tones, create the clean and understated look that complements the simple design philosophy of shaker cabinets. These neutral colors can also create a sense of openness and brightness in a kitchen, making it feel larger and more welcoming.

Another great thing about neutral colors is, neutral colors are very versatile and can fit into a variety of kitchen decor styles, from traditional to contemporary. A neutral color palette used with shaker kitchen cabinets gives kind of a blank canvas for adding other design elements, such as accent walls, unique countertops, or hardware, to personalize the space and create a unique look.

Woods & Materials Used for shaker kitchen cabinets

Traditionally made of solid wood

If you’re a fan of the natural look and character that wood cabinets bring to a kitchen, traditional Shaker cabinets can still be made from various woods to give a kitchen traditional look in contemporary homes.

Hardwood & Budget Friendly Alternatives

For many people, hardwood kitchen cabinets are a desirable upgrade that adds value and style to their home. However, they can be expensive and out of reach for some budgets. Fortunately, there are plenty of budget-friendly alternatives to hardwood shaker kitchen cabinets that offer the same look or feel without breaking the bank.

From MDF/HDF materials to thermofoil cabinets and even laminate solutions, there is something for everyone when it comes to finding affordable options for updating your kitchen space. Here is an overview of some of the most popular budget friendly alternatives to hardwood shaker kitchen cabinets.
Laminate
A strong, durable material that comes in a variety of finishes, from glossy to matte. It’s also a budget-friendly option that’s easy to clean and maintain.
Thermofoil

Another popular material for shaker cabinets, as it offers a smooth, seamless finish and is easy to care for.

MDF/HDF
An attractive option, as it has a uniform texture and is less expensive than other materials. As with any cabinetry material, MDF/HDF offers the same practicality and efficiency as wood, but with a lower cost. This makes it perfect for budget-conscious homeowners who still want to enjoy the timeless appeal of shaker cabinet designs.

Shaker cabinets look fantastic in either budget friendly options. Ultimately, the decision of which material to choose will be based on personal preference and the overall look that you’re going for.

Hardware Used for Shaker Style Doors

knobs and pull style handles for shaker style cabinets
Shaker style kitchen cabinet doors are known for their timeless and understated design, but the hardware you choose can make a big difference in how your shaker cabinets look. From knobs to pulls, there are a ton of options when it comes to choosing the right hardware for shaker style cabinet doors.

But which types of hardware work best with a modern shaker design? Let’s take a look at some of the most popular options.

Knobs

knob styles for shaker kitchen cabinets in modern kitchens
They’re simple, understated and are great for shaker cabinet doors. Matte black circle or square knobs are a popular choice for this style, but if you’re looking for something more unique, there are plenty of other options too .

Pulls

shaker cabinets pull style handles
Avalible in a wide variety of sizes and finishes, so you can customize them to fit your kitchen’s look. Longer pulls can give your kitchen cabinets a sleek look, while shorter ones can be used to be more unique.

No matter what type of hardware you choose for your shaker style cabinet doors, make sure to pick something that fits the overall look and feel of your kitchen. The right hardware can bring your cabinets to life and make it look like you just remodeled!

Will shaker style cabinets work in my kitchen?

Shaker style cabinets are very versatile

Shaker style kitchen cabinets are popular for their versatility, and have become a top choice for modern designs. If you’re a person that loves decor that is simple, practical, and subtle, shaker cabinets would likely be a great fit for your kitchen. Shaker cabinetry perfectly fits in with any design from traditional to contemporary. Also using a neutral color palette shaker cabinetry can effortlessly blend into your existing kitchen color scheme.

If you’re considering a kitchen remodel, forget about worrying over outdated cabinets. Shaker cabinets are evergreen and can be quickly updated with a simple change of color – from unfinished wood to black or gray for instance – giving them an instantly modern edge.

If you're thinking about using shaker cabinets for your kitchen consider this

Shaker style: Shaker cabinet styles have a unique and timeless look using neutral colors and minimal decorative elements. If this style will complement the overall design of your kitchen then shaker cabinets would be a great choice for kitchen cabinets.

Do you like neutral colors? Neutral colors, such as whites and grays are commonly used with shaker kitchen cabinets. If this is the look you’re after, it can be a great way to turn your kitchen into your dream kitchen. Neutral colors allow for tons of flexibility when considering decor options for the rest of your kitchen.

Consider the countertop: Because of their neutral colors, shaker cabinets pair very nicely with most countertops. Whether you are thinking of marble, granite, or quartz countertops, they will all pair nicely with a shaker style cabinet. The great thing about this is that you can really customize your kitchen and make it unique to your personal style.

Cost: Shaker cabinets vary in price depending on the material and finish but shaker cabinets have plenty of budget friendly options. If you are really into the look of shaker cabinets there is sure to be a style and price point that fits your budget.

Conclusion

Shaker cabinets can be a great option to consider for your home. If you’re a person that likes a modern yet timeless cabinet style, then shaker cabinets could be the perfect choice for you. Simplicity, practicality, and versatility are qualities that you’ll get from shaker cabinets. So if you’re in the market for new cabinets in your home, be sure to consider the timeless and unique look of shaker cabinets.

Related Posts