What Is a Shaker Style Kitchen?

What Is a Shaker Style Kitchen?

Many kitchen styles have fairly self-explanatory names. Even if they don’t tell you exactly what a kitchen in that style looks like, they do at least give you a reasonable idea of what to expect. So, for example, if someone said they had a traditional, a modern or a country kitchen, you could probably picture something that matched that description.

And then there are Shaker kitchens. There’s nothing in the name that tells you anything. And even if you do know what Shaker kitchens look like, you could still quite reasonably wonder where the name comes from. 

This month, the team at CKD is taking a close look at Shaker style kitchens – what they look like, how they differ from other styles… and how they came by that name.

The History of Shaker Style Kitchens

In the mid-18th century, a new religious movement emerged that was formally called the United Society of Believers in Christ’s Second Appearing, but which was more commonly known as The Shakers. That name came about because of the ecstatic state worshippers would get into during their services.

The Shakers were an ascetic group who practised simple and communal living together with a commitment to equality of the sexes. When crafting furniture, they did so with a firm belief in utility over beauty, resulting in a minimalist aesthetic without any unnecessary flourishes or adornments, which they deemed self-indulgent.

Although the Shaker style still exists in many types of furniture, it is perhaps most commonly encountered today in the form of Shaker style kitchens.

What does a Shaker Kitchen look like?

Given the above, you could easily think that Shaker kitchens might be a little dull. And while they may be understated, they nevertheless have a classic and stylish appearance that can bring real class and uncluttered elegance to a kitchen. It’s that simple and classic look that still makes it such a popular choice after all these years.

The basic Shaker design consists of the following key elements:

• A simple recessed panel surrounded by a four-piece wooden frame
• Straight lines 
• Natural materials
• A lack of embellishment or intricacy
• Muted colours

What’s the difference between Shaker and Traditional kitchens?

While there are many similarities between Traditional and Shaker kitchens, you’ll find more decorative touches in the former, including elements such as crown mouldings and ornate accessories. Traditional kitchens are also likely to have flashier worktops than those you’d find above Shaker cabinets.

Meanwhile, Traditional cabinets and doors will usually feature raised panels, unlike the more simple design of a Shaker door or cabinet.

Are Shaker Style Kitchens more expensive?

There’s nothing inherent in a Shaker kitchen that is likely to make it any more expensive than any other style of kitchen. Here at CKD, we can design and build Shaker kitchens for any space and any budget – we take great pride in providing luxury bespoke kitchens without the luxury price tag.

Shaker Style Kitchen Design & Installation

If you’re interested in a bespoke Shaker kitchen, or you want some Shaker kitchen ideas, you can’t do better than talk to the team at CKD. With over 40 years of experience designing and building luxury kitchens, we’re experts at creating beautiful Shaker kitchens with that timeless elegance you’re looking for to embellish your home.

Get in touch with us now to find out more.