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What Are Shaker Style Cabinets? A Guide to a Timeless Kitchen Cabinet Style (With Examples)
By: Andrew Saladino | 
5 min
August 12th, 2023
Shaker style cabinets are the perfect balance between simplicity and functionality. Defined by high-quality craftsmanship, a flat center panel, and square edges, these cabinets are staples in kitchens across the globe.
They don't rely on overly complicated designs or intricate details. Instead, they offer a touch of minimalism steeped in tradition. They're great for any style of kitchen, from rustic farmhouses to sleek, contemporary spaces.
What Are Shaker Style Cabinets?
Shaker style cabinets are known for their practical, straightforward design and unique ability to fit into just about any kitchen style you can imagine.
They feature clean lines and a flat panel center, which can add an understated elegance to your interior design. And because they prioritize functionality and quality over unnecessary ornate details, they'll last long if you take care of them.
Shaker cabinets were born out of the principles of the Shaker religious group. Their furniture designs, including the now-iconic cabinets, echoed the sect's core values.
Artisans placed a premium on creating well-made, practical pieces without too much flare. Their understated designs often featured clean lines, practical layouts, and the use of local, high-quality woods.
Over time, Shaker style cabinets adapted to modern demands, combining the historical build and emphasis on quality with contemporary style, creating an amazing aesthetic for any kitchen.
How Shaker Style Cabinets Are Made
Shaker style cabinets emphasize tradition and attention to detail. Manufacturers craft Shaker cabinet doors using the cope and stick joinery technique.
This centuries-old method uses a five-piece door design which includes two vertical pieces (stiles), two horizontal pieces (rails), and a flat panel in the center.
The stiles and rails interlock at the corners to create a sturdy frame where the flat panel gets inserted.
It's a simple yet elegant design that offers durability and timeless appeal.
Defining Features of Shaker Cabinets
Shaker style kitchen cabinets have a few key features:
Simplicity and minimalism: With clean lines and an absence of elaborate details, these cabinets exemplify minimalistic beauty.
Versatility: The straightforward design allows Shaker cabinets to fit into various kitchen styles - modern, traditional, or something in between.
High-quality materials: Since they're constructed from durable hardwoods, these cabinets showcase an enduring commitment to quality.
Functional design: Shaker cabinets are designed with utility in mind, with ample storage space, aiding in keeping your kitchen organized and efficient.
These features culminate in a timeless, practical cabinet design that complements any kitchen.
Types of Shaker Cabinet Finishes
An essential aspect of Shaker style cabinets is their finish. The finish adds depth to the cabinet and is critical in maintaining its look and longevity.
There are various finish options, each lending their advantages and visual element.
1. Painted Finishing
Painted Shaker style cabinets can help give your space some color, allowing the cabinets to match the style and color scheme of your kitchen easily.
A well-executed painted finish on a Shaker cabinet can transform an ordinary kitchen into a visual treat.
2. Burnished Finishing
Want to capture the vintage vibe? Burnishing lends a rugged charm to Shaker cabinets, revealing their character and rustic allure.
The complex process requires attention to detail, as the cabinets get gently rubbed to create an aged, distressed look.
3. Polyurethane Finishing
Polyurethane finish brings out the richness and depth of the wood, making it a great choice for modern and traditional Shaker cabinets.
It provides a robust, protective layer against moisture and scratches, ensuring your cabinets stand the test of time.
The result is a rustic and warm appearance, perfect for those seeking a balance of elegance and functionality.
4. Thermofoil Finishing
Thermofoil finishing can help protect your beloved Shaker cabinets from wear and tear. It involves a process where a flexible vinyl material gets heated and molded over medium-density fiberboard (MDF).
While this finish lends a sleek, contemporary feel to the cabinets, one must not expose them to high temperatures, as the thermofoil can peel or discolor.
Shaker Cabinet Examples
Although the principles behind Shaker cabinets remain consistent, variations in style, material, and finish can lead to distinctive looks.
Here are some standout Shaker styles worth considering for your next remodel:
Modern Shaker Style Cabinets
Modern Shaker cabinets take advantage of the clean lines of Shaker style design. With a sleek finish with either paint or thermofoil, Shaker cabinets can bring in a clean and sophisticated modern look.
Simplicity is everything in modern design, and Shaker cabinets harness it perfectly.
Traditional Shaker Style Cabinets
Traditional Shaker cabinets stay true to their roots. They feature natural wood or muted paint finishes, highlighting the Shaker's belief in functionality and simplicity.
Pair the cabinets with a rustic butcher block countertop or a classic granite slab.
Farmhouse Shaker Style Cabinets
Farmhouse Shaker cabinets offer a rustic charm that pairs great with the homely aesthetic of farmhouse-style kitchens. They often feature natural wood or distressed finishes and might include vintage hardware for an added touch of nostalgia.
While they keep the signature simplicity of Shaker design, they also embrace a sense of cozy, lived-in comfort that makes a kitchen feel like the heart of a home.
Shaker Style Cabinet FAQs
What is the difference between Shaker cabinets and regular cabinets?
The main thing that sets them apart is their design and construction. Shaker cabinets have a five-piece door with a recessed center panel, while regular cabinets may have a single-piece flat door or a raised panel design. That simple and no-fuss approach makes Shaker cabinets stand out in the crowd.
Are Shaker cabinets more expensive than flat?
Shaker cabinets can vary in price depending on factors like materials and customization. They might be a tad pricier than flat cabinets because of their fancy setup and high-quality materials. But many people think they're worth every penny because Shaker cabinets bring that timeless appeal and sturdy craftsmanship that can withstand the test of time.
Are Shaker cabinets still in style?
Most definitely. Shaker cabinets are still the talk of the town when it comes to kitchen design. Their laid-back yet classy look never goes out of fashion. They effortlessly blend with different kitchen styles, whether you're going for a cozy traditional vibe or a sleek and modern feel. Plus, there are many finishes and styles to choose from, so you can customize them to match your unique taste and keep things fresh.
Are Shaker style kitchen cabinets old-fashioned?
Shaker kitchens are not considered old-fashioned. In fact, the Shaker style has stood the test of time and continues to be a popular choice for modern kitchens. The clean lines, minimalist design, and timeless aesthetic of Shaker kitchens make them versatile and adaptable to various interior styles, including both traditional and contemporary. Shaker kitchens offer a classic and enduring look that transcends trends, making them a reliable and stylish choice for homeowners.
Embarking on a kitchen remodel or simply aiming to refresh the heart of your home? Consider Shaker style cabinets.
Their timeless design will not only fit into your kitchen's aesthetic but also deliver the functional value that is just as important. No matter what color palette or kitchen theme you choose, Shaker cabinets are guaranteed to add a sense of warmth and sophistication, offering an inviting space for you to cook, gather, and create lifelong memories.
