Even if one knows next to nothing about kitchen cabinets, chances are they have heard of the Shaker cabinet style. Shaker cabinets have been a popular and timeless design choice for kitchen cabinets for many years. Their simple, clean lines and classic style have made them a favorite among homeowners and designers alike.
While some kitchen design trends may come and go, Shaker cabinets have shown remarkable staying power due to their versatility and ability to fit well in various kitchen styles, from traditional to contemporary.
Are Shaker cabinets going out of style? Nope. And they likely never will. Here’s why.
Symmetry & Proportion
The Shaker cabinet style is one of the oldest cabinet styles. It is not only fairly easy to construct; it is easy on the eye and the brain. This is because the human brain loves symmetry and proportion.
Shaker cabinets are a perfect example of this, as the inset panels in them are normally proportionate ratio sized rectangle of the frame they are set into. This leads to a series of geometrical patterns that make your mind breathe a sigh of relief.
Quality
Shaker cabinets have always been associated with quality construction. From their roots in the handcrafted Shaker community, until today, they remain known for joinery, solid materials, and simple craftsmanship.
Since the Shaker style is so popular, it is important to be aware of the materials a cabinet is made of. Hardwood or plywood is ideal for ultimate quality.
Easy to Clean, Maintain & Repair
History shows that Shaker cabinets have fewer edges to clean or catch things on, and have doors and drawers that can easily be repaired. Before the advent of quality RTA kitchen cabinets, this was a great boon for people who needed to get replacement parts.
The simplicity of the shaker style also means there are fewer intricate details that could potentially wear down over time. Additionally, the construction of shaker cabinets often involves techniques like dovetail joints, which enhance their strength and durability.
The bottom line is that a Shaker cabinet is easy to take care of and look can look like the day you installed them for many years with the right care.
Versatility
Shaker cabinets can seamlessly go from a modern style kitchen to a farmhouse rustic kitchen. They get away from some of more complicated looks and styles that tend to fit in designated categories. The lack of overt ornamentation can give the impression of more space, cleanliness, and timelessness–and that makes them winners in any design or style.
Neutral Colors
Colors like avocado green or mustard yellow definitely have their place in kitchens of the past. And that’s just the point–they are colors that became dated. The most popular of all Shaker cabinets is the white shaker cabinet. The white kitchen will always look fresh and up to date.
Most other Shaker cabinet colors follow the example of white and remain timeless. Natural wood colors, gray, beige, even blue are colors that don’t pigeon hole a kitchen into one style or era.
Paint-able
Should you want a little refresh on your Shaker cabinets, they are the easiest to paint. Their simplicity makes it an easy job for even a basic DIYer to do a paint refresh.
Simply remove doors, paint frames, then paint doors on both sides. Once dry, reattach hinges and you’re set to go with a totally new look for a fraction of the price to replace your cabinets.
Shaker cabinets are always a good idea. You really can’t go wrong with them no matter what style or design you have. Take a deeper dive on Shaker cabinets.
