Questions, questions, questions…

There are a lot of questions to ask when it comes to choosing a new kitchen. Colour? Size, number, and positioning of cabinetry? Kitchen island? Countertops?

And then we come to the style of the design.

So, should you choose a Shaker kitchen or a slab kitchen?

Read on to help you make the right decision for you and your kitchen!

What are the Differences between Shaker and Slab Kitchen Cabinets?

Let’s start with an overview of the key differences between a Shaker and Slab kitchen.

A Shaker kitchen door is a five-piece, minimalist design that has its origins in the late 18th century. It takes its name from the ‘Shakers’- a religious group, many of whom emigrated from England to America. The design was founded on principles of simplicity, utility, and high quality craftsmanship.

Shaker cabinets are renowned for their clean and simple lines. Offering a timeless and versatile look, Shaker cabinets have been a staple of kitchen design for over 200 years – never really going out of fashion. The traditional feel of Shaker doors is incredibly versatile and they are available in many popular styles – timeless designs, one and all.

Slab– or flat panel- doors are single-piece, flat, and solid. In contrast to Shaker doors, they include no raised panels, frames, or decorative features – offering a modern and minimalist aesthetic. They are designed for easy cleaning and durability and provide a sleek look, often featuring handleless designs. The smooth finish combines with soft close hinges and comes in a range of stylish options and contemporary designs.

The Advantages of a Shaker Kitchen

Shaker doors are a perennial favourite and always remain popular. So much so, that you guarantee that all major retailers will have Shaker designs in their ranges – and have done so for decades.

Shaker: Broader Appeal and Higher Resale Value

Because of their enduring popularity, Shaker doors are generally considered a ‘safer’ choice. A Shaker kitchen is timeless and versatile. The recessed panel design is instantly recognisable and familiar. This often adds higher resale value as Shaker doors appeal to a wider range of buyers.

Shaker: The Traditional look

In Victorian or Georgian properties – or country-style home – Shaker kitchens tend to be the perfect pick. Slab doors sometimes look out of place in older properties, whereas Shaker doors feel authentic.

Shaker kitchens are also great for blending traditional warmth with modern aspects of a kitchen. The classic but contemporary look is always appealing.

Shaker: Durability and Aesthetics

The five-piece construction of Shaker doors makes them highly durable. They are more resistant to warping than single-piece panels.

Finally, if you don’t get the design right, slab doors can come across a little stark or too plain – especially in larger kitchens. On the other hand, Shaker doors will always add character and depth to any space.

The Advantages of a Slab Kitchen

Slab kitchen doors are synonymous with modern and contemporary kitchens.

Think of handleless kitchens and integrated appliances. If you want to maximise the visual space in the kitchen, embrace a minimalist aesthetic, and utilise cutting edge technology and functionality, slab kitchens might be a better bet than the more traditional look of a Shaker kitchen.

Shaker kitchens have some clear advantages, of course – but in contemporary or smaller properties, and homes with open plan designs, Slab kitchens have the edge and are the clear winner.

Slab: Optimise Small Spaces

Handleless doors, by eliminating handles and using push-to-open or recessed profiles, provide a sleek and streamlined look. By avoiding breaks in cabinetry, it creates a sense of space.

Modern slab doors offer clean lines, flat centre panel and uninterrupted look that helps to create a visual lightness. This can make smaller spaces appear larger and less cluttered.

Slab: Cutting-edge technology and Integrated Functionality

Modern slab kitchens feature designs that seamlessly integrate with smart appliances and advanced lighting systems. The smooth surface for tech-savvy homeowners who want a futuristic look for their kitchen space.

Slab doors and cabinets can also feature innovative and ingenious storage solutions.

Slab: Easy Maintenance and Cleaning

The smooth and flat surfaces of slab cupboard doors are easier to clean than Shaker styles. This is because Shaker doors feature beading and a recessed centre panel which, over time, will collect and dust.

Slab cabinets also have highly durable finishes. High gloss and matt finishes are stain resistant and easy to wipe down.

The Final Word

As is always the case with kitchens, the final word is yours!

All in all, it comes down to your personal preference and the making the right choice of cabinet style for your lifestyle. So, let’s run through the key questions to ask yourself:

Do you want a traditional or timeless feel for your kitchen?

Are you thinking ahead to a possible resale of your property?

Do you want character and charm – and a look that is classic and contemporary?

If you answered yes to the above questions, a Shaker kitchen is likely to be for you.

Do you want a sleek and streamlined look for your kitchen?

Do you want to integrate appliances and the latest technology into your kitchen design?

Do you crave and ultra-modern kitchen style?

If you have answered yes to these questions, a slab kitchen could be ideal.

Next Steps

For traditional looks and timeless appeal, Shaker style cabinets come out on top. They give the kitchen a durability and versatility that cannot really be achieved with a slab kitchen design. You can’t really go wrong with classic aesthetic appeal – especially when Shaker doors can be easily repainted if you want to refresh your kitchen look in a few years time, and when the look can add higher resale value.

On the other hand, if your goal is a modern minimalist kitchen and you desire a look that is ultra-modern and futuristic, slab flat panel cabinet doors deliver what Shaker doors cannot achieve. The Shaker look is timeless, but handleless high gloss and matt slab style cabinets often look more current and on-trend.

If you are still undecided or you have any questions, why not get in touch with the Kitchen Warehouse team? We’re always on hand and happy to help and to offer advice.