When it comes to kitchen design, few styles offer the same mix of simplicity and elegance as the shaker kitchen. The style began in the 18th century and has become a favourite for homeowners who want a kitchen that is both practical and beautiful. In this guide, we’ll explore what makes shaker kitchens special, their history, and why they are still so popular today.

What is a Shaker Kitchen?

Shaker kitchens were built to show off skilled craftsmanship. A shaker kitchen is known for its unique cabinet doors, which reflect the careful work of the Shaker people, where the design comes from. The design is simple and neat, with a focus on how well it works and looks.

The main key feature of a shaker kitchen is the cabinets. Shaker cabinets feature a recessed central panel, framed by raised edges. This helps to provide a clean, structured look, serving as an elegant backdrop to your kitchen.

Shaker kitchens were first made this way to show off skilled craftsmanship. They were made to last and stay beautiful over time. This classic style has lasted through the years and can be updated easily with paint, handles, or other details to suit your home.

Identifying a Shaker Kitchen

Aside from the distinct recessed panels of the doors, a shaker kitchen often also has other visual features. Going back to the focus on craftsmanship, shaker kitchens often showcase natural wood textures, giving them a more comforting, homey feel.

Some cabinet frames may have a sloped design that creates a soft, shadowed effect, while others may feature a direct 90-degree cut for a more pronounced appearance, as seen in styles like Haddington and Pendle. Additionally, some cabinets may include multiple panels on their doors or incorporate decorative lines to enhance their visual appeal.

Pendle_MossGreenBleachedStone — Haddington

Types of Shaker Kitchen

Although a shaker kitchen is a style all on its own, there are also some ‘sub-styles’. These styles take the basics of the shaker and add extra elements to make the kitchen more unique or functional.

For example, a slim shaker like our Hawkshaw collection features a slim frame, making the doors lighter. In contrast, the Pendle collection showcases a more traditional five-piece design, incorporating “V”-frame groove joints that create a family-friendly atmosphere. Other, more modern styles, like the Bowland, have a handleless design which combines the traditional shaker panel with a modern practicality.

Each sub-style offers a unique twist on the classic shaker design. This allows homeowners to express their personal taste whilst still enjoying the timeless appeal of the shaker style.

Why Are They So Popular?

Shaker kitchens have remained popular for several reasons. Their simple yet elegant design makes them adaptable to any home style, allowing homeowners to personalise their kitchens. Colour options can range from calming neutrals to bold hues, making each kitchen unique. With their classic design elements, Shaker kitchens can withstand changing trends without losing their charm.

The shaker design can be seen everywhere in home furnishing design. Aside from kitchens, other items like dressers and bed frames often have shaker features like recessed panels or dovetail joints. These elements not only add visual appeal but also help to add strength and durability.

The History of the Shakers

Unlike many other style trends, the shaker didn’t start in the peak of home design. The Shaker style refers to the unique design choices and mentality of the Shaker people, who led a religious movement at the start of the 18th century. Sweeping England and America, the Shakers gained their name from the public dancing that would often be part of their religious worship. The Shakers had a strong belief in being self-sufficient, focusing on the quality of craftsmanship and sustainability of their work, which included their furniture and homeware.

The Shakers built their kitchens using wood from local sources, making sure they were built to last while being practical. Their cabinets and designs became well-known for being long-lasting and high-quality. The early to mid-19th century saw a big surge in demand for shaker furniture as it became more widely known and people wanted the minimalistic style.

As electricity began to be introduced into homes and appliances were invented, kitchens began to be a more integral part of the home during the early 20th century, and homeowners started to pay more attention to the style of their kitchens. Once just a place to cook, the kitchen has now changed into a multi-functional space used for entertaining, dining, and more. Now in the 21st century, how our kitchens look is just as important as how they work.

Even before this shift, the Shaker people’s style could be seen throughout furniture design. The classic ladder-backed chair, for example, was one of the Shakers’ designs, and although the origins are now mostly forgotten, the influence on modern home design is strong. Even today, many homes use shaker design in their furnishings, giving a classic look that never goes out of style.

The Modern Shaker

The shaker style kitchens today look quite different to those you have seen in the 18th century. Gaining popularity between 2013 and 2016, the demand for shaker kitchens has grown over the years, with time during 2020 seeing a peak in searches for the style.

Modern Shaker kitchens still have the key elements of traditional Shaker style, like wood textures and panelled cabinets, but they are now more flexible. The modern shaker design is versatile enough to suit any type of home and can adapt to evolving trends. It serves as a backdrop for your kitchen, allowing it to harmonise with your style.

If you’re renovating your home or building a new one, a Shaker kitchen is a timeless option that can fit your personal tastes while being practical. This style comes from a movement that valued skilled work and community, ensuring that Shaker kitchens last for a long time.

If you want a kitchen that combines beauty with practicality, speak to a member of the Direct Kitchens team to discover more about our shaker collection.