In the words of legendary football manager, Bill Shankly, “Form is temporary, class is permanent.” You can adapt this saying to the world of kitchen design too: “Trends are temporary, style is permanent.” It’s true. Trends are temporary. They come and go, but style never goes out of fashion.

If you were to look at the go to kitchen design ideas over the years, you’d see how certain looks have been popular during different periods. You would also notice when key aspects of modern kitchen design were first introduced. What’s more, you’d see that certain aspects of kitchen design have remained pretty consistent throughout the years. Some key aspects of style have endured. Shaker kitchens are one such style, as ‘style’ and ‘Shaker’ are synonymous with eachother – they really do go hand in hand! So, without further ado, let’s look at everything you need to know and could want to know about Shaker kitchens.

A Shaker style kitchen is undoubtedly a timeless classic. But what exactly is that makes it so? Why have Shaker kitchens remained so popular for so many years? And could a Shaker design be just what you are looking for in your kitchen?

What is a Shaker Kitchen?

The Shaker kitchen dates all the way back to the 18th century, with historic records suggesting that a community of Shakers – a religious sect officially known as The United Society of Believers in Christ’s Second Appearance – believed that all objects within the home should have a function.

Ultimately, their focus was on practicality, and how they can use quality materials, which would go on to form the basis of what is now referred to as a “shaker” kitchen. Now a mainstay in kitchen design, the principles founded by the Shakers of perfect functionality combined with the best materials is still very much in demand today.

Shaker kitchens of the modern day bring about smooth lines, clear spaces and simplicity, which can be achieved by using a wide range of colours and materials to perfectly suit the modern home. It can also mean including extra deep drawers, or clever storage spaces which are designed to minimise clutter and maximise the available surface space. While smooth lines are the order of the day, shaker kitchen units with curved edges or sleek acuter angles can both work well.

The distinctive recessed panelling of a Shaker kitchen is perhaps the hallmark of the style, along with the square profile of the frame and panels. In keeping with the Shakers’ way of life, the style was unfussy and uncluttered. Everything about a Shaker kitchen is orderly yet there’s nothing sterile or dull about the look. In fact, it’s highly versatile. The design fits like a glove in a classic, country style kitchen. Equally, a modern shaker kitchen can look as stylish and trendy as its traditional variant.

What is a Shaker Kitchen?

Why is it called a Shaker kitchen?

So, now you know what Shaker style is, it’s time to think about where the unusual name itself comes from.

The Shakers were a religious group formed in the North West of England in 1747, when the sect split away from another group, the Quakers. The full title of the group was The United Society of Believers in Christ’s Second Appearance. The Shakers were renowned for their celibate and communal lifestyle. The sect actively promoted equality of the sexes. This made them stand out from most other religious groups of the time. But it was another key aspect of the Shaker lifestyle will led to the famous name becoming so closely bonded to the world of kitchen design.

The Shakers became renowned for the simple lifestyles that they advocated. Combined with this was a clear emphasis on technological innovation. Crucially, the Shakers were firm believers that everything in the home should have a clear function.

The beginning of Shaker style

Essentially, the Shakers broke with religious tradition in that the sect placed the emphasis of worship very much on the community, rather than on ordained clergy, as most religious groups did at the time. You can find out more about the History of the Shakers, but it is their focus on lifestyle that is most relevant to us in terms of kitchen design.

The Shakers’ belief that everything should have a practical function, combined with a desire to use quality materials, led to the creation of what is now known as a Shaker kitchen. The basic design principles of simple smooth line and clear spaces have changed little over the years.

Following, their split from the Quakers, the Shakers moved across to New York in the late 1700s. They settled, mainly around the eastern areas of New England, in small communities. Focusing on being self-sufficient, they began to make and sell their signature furniture. It is this that we now instantly recognise as Shaker style.

What Colour is a Shaker Kitchen?

One of the biggest advantages of choosing a shaker style kitchen for your home is the sheer range of colours and styles you get to choose from. Shaker kitchen colour schemes are designed to be timeless and elegant, as opposed to ‘on-trend’ – ideal for anyone who wishes to enjoy their kitchen for many years to come.

Many people opt for neutral colours or time tested designs when it comes to their kitchen, mainly including solid wood or white shades. While there is nothing wrong with this approach at all, our shaker kitchen doors means that you can have a little more fun and be more creative with your kitchen design.

For example, our Roma painted shaker doors come in a whopping 17 different colours! This includes ballroom blue, soft mint and graphite so you can be truly unique in your kitchen design. With these doors you can spark your creative mind into furnishing a whole new style for your kitchen at a very small price.

The vast majority of classic Shaker kitchens are finished in blue, ivory or white, though in many instances let the natural colour and grain of the wood take centre stage. However, more modern Shaker kitchens can be finished in almost any colour (or combination thereof) imaginable. Why not consider stunning shaker graphite kitchen units, or dove grey units. 

The modern Shaker style kitchen also tends to make use of more creative and elaborate hardware, such as taps, contemporary handles, and other finishes. For many individuals who are planning a new kitchen, mixing modern colours and textures for items such as tiles, splash backs, worktops and even appliances with a traditional shaker style is the ideal blend of traditional and contemporary.

Is a Shaker Kitchen Expensive?

Often, people believe that a shaker kitchen will cost an arm and a leg to assemble, but most of the time this is simply not the case. Due to the plethora of options out there in terms of materials, finishes and general configurations, there is a modern shaker kitchen to fit any and all budgets.

What’s more, their durability and practicality will always make them a sound investment that will be very hard to regret! They are well known as one of the most value for money options out there, and it is easy to see why. Shaker kitchens are a popular choice for homeowners who want to get the most out of their kitchen design whilst having a gorgeous interior décor for many years to come, standing the test of time!

Why are Shaker cabinets so popular?

Shaker kitchens have been popular for years. They never seem to lose their appeal. Of course, part of this is down to the history. However, the main reasons why Shaker cabinets have also been one of the most appealing cabinets out there are simple. It boils down to the combination of durability and versatility. Plus, the simple fact that genuine style never goes out of fashion.

Today’s Shaker cabinets are still as plain and simple in design as they were all those years ago. However, the clean lines and unassuming recessed panel that adorns Shaker cabinets is appealing across the board. Whether you want a traditional country kitchen or the most ultra-modern and contemporary design possible, you really can’t go wrong with Shaker kitchens.

A Shaker kitchen is really what you make it. It doesn’t have to scream one style. Shaker kitchens are equally fitting in city apartments, suburban family homes, or a beach house.

Are Shaker style cabinets modern?

Questions that get asked a lot regarding Shaker kitchens are things like: Are Shaker doors in style? Is Shaker a modern style? The bottom line, as we’ve already mentioned, is that style never really goes out of fashion. And there are so many variations to the classic Shaker style that you can make Shaker kitchens fit any look you want, from traditional to ultra-modern.

And you can also use a Shaker style to get the best of both worlds. In recent years, the smooth painted Shaker look has become particularly popular. It gives homeowners the traditional look of a classic Shaker kitchen – but without the woodgrain (a particularly traditional element of the design) being visible on the doors.

Yes, Shaker Painted Smooth Kitchen Units could be just what you are looking for! Check out the likes of these two different style and design options: Florence and Georgia. These will give you bags of Shaker style in a superb smooth finish.

As with all Kitchen Warehouse complete kitchen unit ranges, these Smooth Shaker options come in a variety of options. You also have the extra peace of mind that all sizes each contain a solid back with a service void. This means that all electrical wires and plumbing pipework can be housed tidily and out of view.

Each kitchen unit comprises the cabinet, the Shaker door, soft closing hinges, handle and height adjustable legs. The cabinet is colour coded to complement the door colour you have chosen. 18mm kitchen doors feature the latest in cutting edge technology. The design is both stunning and simple. There are no join lines which makes cleaning them easy too.

Is a Shaker kitchen for you?

Of course, only you can really answer this question. At least now you know pretty much everything there is to know about Shaker kitchens. We have focused on what they are and where they came from. You now understand why the Shaker style has remained popular throughout the years.

Another clear advantage of Shaker kitchens is the vast range of choice and styles that are available. This means that you could opt for a very traditional, classic-looking Shaker kitchen – or the most contemporary and ultra-modern kitchen design you could imagine. A Shaker kitchen gives you great adaptability and versatility. Not only that, it’s a durable and practical design that can withstand all the rigours of busy modern family home.

And, last but not least, you know a Shaker kitchen is always going to look good. Better than good, in fact!

What Are The Advantages of a Shaker Kitchen?

Timeless Design and Appeal

A Shaker style kitchen benefits from an uncluttered look that aids its understated feel, which can be beneficial in a room as busy as the kitchen! The sleek cabinet style transcends passing trends that come and go, giving you a look that will last a lifetime. If you are refreshing the look of the kitchen, a change of colour or a fresh lick of paint is enough to reinvigorate the entire space.

Stamp your individuality

Although the original Shakers would probably roll their eyes at the thought, these days there is plenty of scope to stamp your own individuality and style on a traditional Shaker design. For example, there are now a wide range of ways you can embellish the look and turn it into something unique to you. From bevelled and beaded edging to being creative, daring or contrasting with your choice of backsplashes and countertops, it’s easy to shake up the classic Shaker look, if you so wish.

Low maintenance

Because of the obsession with simplicity within the Shaker school of design, all kitchen cabinets, surfaces and doors are wonderfully easy to clean with hardly any awkward corners, and you can opt for soft rounded corners – whether for aesthetic purposes or to create a safe environment for little ones and pets to run around. The sturdy walls of each kitchen unit have a thickness of 18 mm, with their doors boasting a rock solid 22 mm of PVC finished with an attractive wood effect – meaning there will be no warping at high temperatures or as the result of humidity, and they’ll withstand a great deal of manhandling. All of this is achieved while maintaining a truly traditional, subtly elegant look.

Installation is Simple

We can provide fitting services within a 60 mile radius of HG4 5LZ however if you are outside this range then don’t fret because our shaker style kitchen doors are easy to install.

Our expert team install all kitchen units and doors in this radius, but if you live outside of this area, contact us if you have any doubts so our expert team can tell you exactly what units our doors can be fitted too. Orders over £250 come with a free drill bit as the doors themselves are not pre-drilled with hinge holes. This is so that either you or the person you hire can measure and get the fit exactly right.

There is nothing worse than poorly fitted replacement kitchen doors, so we let whoever is fitting the doors drill so that the fit is perfect.

Contact us today

Hopefully, this guide has answered your burning questions about shaker style kitchens and allowed you to learn a little more about them before you make the purchase. Perhaps you were asking “what is a shaker kitchen?” or “how can a shaker kitchen fit with my existing décor?”. If you have found the answers, then great! You can now press ahead with finding your favourite and placing an order.

If you have any more enquiries you’d like to find out more about, then our team of experts will gladly be on hand to help. You can contact us today by filling out our online form and we will respond as soon as possible. We are also available via email at contact@kitchenwarehouseltd.com or you can give us a call on 01765 640 000 and we will happily go through your specific enquiries with you.

Choosing any Shaker style design online from Kitchen Warehouse is simple. Well, apart from the fact you’ll be so spoiled for choice, that is! The first step is to choose your design. Your sizing options will then appear and you will be able to select your requirements. Units and doors can be delivered to your home flat-packed. Of course, if you don’[t fancy a DIY project and don’t want to spend the time assembling the units, you also have the option of purchasing rigid units.

From Luxury Shaker to Smooth Shaker to Classic and Traditional Shaker, the direction you want your new kitchen to go on has several possibilities. Don’t forget, as well, that if you have your heart set on a Shaker style kitchen, but don’t want a completely new kitchen refit, refacing your existing kitchen cabinets with Shaker replacement doors could be your best option.

The Kitchen Warehouse team are always here to help. If you would like to discuss anything about your Shaker style order requirements, simply contact us by giving us a call on 01765 640 000 . You can also email:  contact@kitchenwarehouseltd.com. Alternatively, you can visit our Ripon showroom.