Known for their clean lines, durability, and timeless appeal, Shaker-style kitchen cabinets are a staple when it comes to kitchen design. They originate from the Shaker religious community in the 18th century, and emphasise simplicity and functionality in craftsmanship. Even today, they remain a top choice for homeowners who want a classic yet adaptable look in traditional, modern, or transitional kitchens.
This article covers the history of the Shaker style, key features that define Shaker style cabinets, and their benefits in modern kitchens. By the end of this article, you’ll know how to choose, style, and maintain them. Stay tuned to learn more!
What Is a Shaker Style Kitchen? A Brief History
Shaker style kitchen cabinets were first created in the 1700s by a craft business with the same name. The business was a religious sect that valued simplicity and functionality above anything else. So, that’s exactly what they did in their design process.
When Shaker style cabinets were first created, they exhibited 3 main features. First, they had unnecessary ornamentation to keep the message clear: function over aesthetics. Next, they were handcrafted from solid wood, such as cherry, maple, or pine trees, for longevity. Lastly, they were built to be lightweight but sturdy, which made them perfect for everyday use.
Later on in the 19th and 20th centuries, when designers began to use minimalist aesthetics more often, these Shaker style kitchen doors became more popular. Today, modern Shaker style kitchens are widely available thanks to wholesale manufacturers that provide them at affordable rates.
Key Characteristics of Shaker Style Kitchen Cabinets
So, what does the Shaker cabinet style even look like? From a design perspective, Shaker style kitchen cabinets have flat, recessed panel doors with no raised or ornate detailing. They also have square edges and straight lines, so that they can give a clean, unfussy finish. Their 5-piece door construction includes a frame and a centre panel.
As mentioned before, Shaker style kitchen cabinets were traditionally made from hardwood like maple, oak, and cherry. However, modular shaker cabinets’ material is MDF (medium-density fibreboard) nowadays, because, that way, they’re scalable and cost-effective. Nowadays, common Shaker door finishes include painted, stained, and distressed looks.
These cabinets also have special features that make them extra functional. For example, their dovetail joinery makes Shaker style kitchen cabinets more durable. Their adjustable shelves ensure you don’t run out of storage ideas, no matter how customised you need your kitchen to be.
Benefits of Choosing Shaker Cabinets
To date, Shaker style kitchen cabinets are one of the most popular kitchen layout designs in Australia and other parts of the world. These cabinets owe their popularity to their many benefits, which include:
- Timeless Aesthetic: Shaker style kitchen doors work well with a variety of designs, including farmhouse, modern, industrial, or traditional kitchens. They never go out of style and ensure long-term appeal.
- Durability and Quality: Their solid wood construction resists warping and wear. Additionally, the simple design means there are fewer parts that can break.
- Customisation Options: Shaker style kitchen cabinets are paintable/stainable to match any colour scheme. They can be paired with modern hardware (brass pulls, matte black knobs) for a more modern finish.
- Easy Maintenance: Modern Shaker style kitchens offer smooth surfaces that can be wiped clean easily. There are no intricate carvings to trap grease or dust.
- Budget-Friendly Options: Shaker style kitchen cabinets are available in stock, semi-custom, and fully custom versions. Even the RTA (ready-to-assemble) Shaker cabinets you find in IKEA kitchen designs offer decent durability.
Shaker Cabinets in Modern Kitchen Design
Thanks to their adaptability and clean aesthetic, Shaker cabinets continue to shine in contemporary kitchens. Current kitchen design trends include two-tone designs, like white upper cabinets paired with deep navy lowers, which creates a striking yet balanced look. Open shelving is often mixed in for contrast, while mixed metals (such as brass handles against stainless steel appliances) add a touch of modern sophistication.
Choosing the right colour keeps Shaker cabinets fresh and stylish. Classic white Shaker style kitchens remain a fan favourite for their bright, airy feel, while dark blues or greens introduce depth and elegance. For a warmer, organic vibe, natural wood tones bring texture and timeless charm. These choices ensure Shaker cabinets fit seamlessly into any design scheme.
Pairing Shaker cabinets with the right countertops and backsplashes makes them even more appealing. For instance, quartz or marble countertops highlight their simplicity, while subway tile backsplashes maintain a crisp and clean aesthetic. Additionally, you can add butcher block counters for warmth, character, and a rustic feel.
Real-life examples showcase their flexibility. In a modern farmhouse kitchen, white Shaker cabinets with black hardware strike a perfect balance. Transitional spaces might feature soft grey cabinets with gold accents for understated luxury. Even minimalist designs benefit from flat-panel Shaker doors with handleless details, proving this classic style can adapt to any trend.
Stock vs. Custom Shaker Style Kitchen Cabinets
Choosing between stock and custom Shaker kitchen cabinets depends on your budget, timeline, and design needs. Both options have their perks, so let’s break them down.
Custom Shaker style kitchen cabinets are perfect if you want a tailored fit, especially for oddly shaped kitchens. They’re built with high-quality materials like solid wood and dovetail joints, ensuring long-lasting durability. You also get endless choices for finishes and hardware. However, this luxury comes at a cost. Expect prices between $800-$1500 per linear foot and lead times of 8–12 weeks.
Stock or RTA (Ready-to-Assemble) Shaker style kitchen cabinets are a budget-friendly alternative, typically costing $300-$800 per linear foot. They arrive quickly, often within days or weeks, and many are designed for easy DIY kitchen cabinet installation. The downside is that you’ll have fewer size and finish options, and some may use particleboard instead of solid wood, which isn’t as durable, especially in Melbourne’s high-humidity weather.
Still, if your heart is still with custom modern Shaker style kitchen cabinets, you can trust Silk Touch Joinery to deliver quality work at a competitive rate. We have years of experience in custom-building and installing Shaker style kitchen cabinets in Melbourne, Australia, and offer fully customisable options that let you select every detail.
How to Care for Shaker Style Cabinets
With proper care, keeping your Shaker style kitchen cabinets looking their best is not a challenging task. Here are some tips:
- For daily cleaning, use a damp microfiber cloth with mild soap to gently wipe away grime.
- Remember that harsh chemicals like ammonia or bleach can damage finishes.
- You should also always dry surfaces immediately to prevent water marks or warping.
- Touch up any chips in painted cabinets with matching paint, and ensure the stained wood benefits from an annual application of furniture wax or oil to maintain its lustre.
- To prevent long-term damage, consider installing soft-close hinges to minimise wear from slamming doors.
- Hardware like knobs and pulls not only adds style but also reduces fingerprints on cabinet fronts.
- Be mindful of moisture exposure near sinks and dishwashers, as prolonged dampness can compromise the wood.
With these easy maintenance habits, your Shaker cabinets will stay beautiful for years to come.
Conclusion: Are Shaker Style Kitchen Cabinets a Good Choice?
Shaker style kitchen cabinets remain a top choice for kitchens, thanks to their timeless design, exceptional durability, and remarkable versatility. They are simple and functional, which results in high adaptability to any style effortlessly. With proper care, these cabinets can last decades, making them a smart investment for any home.
To get Shaker style kitchen cabinet doors, you can choose between stock and custom options. While RTA Shaker cabinets offer affordability, they are not as durable or as diverse. Instead of these mass-produced products, you can opt for custom Shaker style kitchen cabinets, which offer longevity, quality, and versatility.
By contacting Silk Touch Joinery today, you can get a free consultation and quote to get started on your customised, modern Shaker style kitchen. Call us today!