The kitchen is the most important room of the home. Without it, the house would feel empty. The kitchen is the place where families come together to create memories. It’s the place where you spend the happiest moments. You don’t have to be rich to have a fabulous kitchen. You can make your space look like a million bucks with a minimal investment. There are many styles to choose from.  If you’re looking for a kitchen style for your remodelling project, consider the shaker style.

Shaker kitchens never go out of style, not to say that they look great in both contemporary and traditional homes. They can be dressed up or down. It’s precisely this versatility that makes shaker style kitchens suitable for all properties. Collecting inspiring kitchen photos won’t help you figure out what you want. Narrow down your options. Understanding the Shaker kitchen style will help you plan your renovation.

Why Do They Call Them Shaker Style Kitchens?

Shaker style kitchens get their name from a religious sect founded in England in 1783 called the Shaking Quakers, aka the Shakers. They were renowned for their craftsmanship and high-quality furniture. Each furnishing was created using the finest wood (pine, cherry, or maple wood) and crafted without embellishments. The Shakers adhered to the principle that beauty rests in utility. The Shaker style gives the impression of an effortless look. It has never gone out of fashion and it’s not hard to understand why. Shaker style kitchens are simple and, most importantly, functional.

More important than the Shaker’s contribution to religion is their aesthetic legacy. To maximise space, Shaker furniture was built into the room itself. The Shakers made a difference in a time when mass-produced furniture was synonymous with shoddy workmanship, which cost time and money. Shaker style kitchens remain a stable in terms of furniture design. Furniture makers now reinterpret the traditional forms, giving weight to utility and simplicity.

The Key Features of Shaker Style Kitchens

You can identify a Shaker kitchen without much difficulty by inspecting the at doors, cabinets, and drawers, which consist of a centre flat panel and square edges. The design is symmetrical and lacks veneering or ornamentation. The colour schemes are designed to be timeless and elegant. Popular colour finishes include but aren’t limited to blue, green, red, and yellow. The colours are as varied as the rainbow. Instead of using imported brass for pulls and handles, the Shakers preferred wood, which gives a lot of character and beauty.

Shaker style kitchens are minimalist, so they’re characterised by simplicity, clean lines, and natural elements. Contrary to popular opinion, they don’t cost an arm and a leg. You can find a Shaker kitchen to fit any budget. Features like side panelling and glass aren’t Shaker features, but they can complement your kitchen. You can find cabinet doors that are stained or painted. The Shaker kitchen has outgrown its humble beginnings. Modern Shaker kitchens are ideal for someone who’s looking for something a little bit different.

Simple Ideas for Finishing Shaker Style Kitchens

Achieve A Deep Rich Colour Pop

Traditionally, Shaker kitchens were unpainted. If you want to upgrade to a more contemporary look, add a splash of colour. The Shakers, known for their emphasis on simplicity, didn't shy away from incorporating color into their designs. Introducing color can brighten up your kitchen space and add a modern touch. Consider adding a splash of color with painted cabinetry. Opt for bold choices like navy or black to create a dramatic visual impact. Alternatively, you can play with contrasts by pairing dark countertops with light-colored kitchen doors. If you prefer to stick with the original colors, that's fine too. However, when you're ready for a change, you can easily refresh the look by replacing the doors. Companies like Lovech specialize in manufacturing custom doors, offering a wide range of vibrant hues and artistic inspirations. Experiment with different shades to craft a kitchen that truly reflects your personality and style.

Where Room Allows, Install A Kitchen Island

Have a bold centre statement piece, such as a kitchen island. It can be paired with the cabinets. The kitchen island provides all the storage space you need for cooking utensils and specialty tools. You can add seating with bar stools or dining chairs. Wooden chairs will mirror the simplicity of the Shaker look.  You can have a bespoke kitchen island tailored to your specific space. Not only can you cook for your family, but also socialise with friends. Think about adding discrete spotlights for a modern twist.

Combine An Array of Materials for A Unique Look

The thought of combining two or more materials might seem overwhelming at first, but it’s not as complicated as you think it is. It all comes down to balance, colour coordination, and a good deal of effort. If you want a perfectly imperfect look, give it a try. The Shaker style kitchen can be anything you want it to be. You can combine wooden countertops with brass handles to create a rustic look. When it comes to worktops, you can use high-quality materials like stone and metal. Any additions you make to the kitchen should be fully natural.

Open Shelving Is a Great Way to Add Some Interest

Use open shelves to create an airy aesthetic. You can show off your most valued dishware collection. The simple look attracts the attention of any visitor. It makes them feel at home. Plus, it lets more light come in from the windows. Your shelves are easier to organise. If you don’t need too much storage space, you don’t have to use that many cabinets. Reserve the top shelf for tall decorative items to maximise the visual effect. Open shelves aren’t just for keeping plates and glasses within reach.

In the end, before you start swinging hammers, take the time to think about what kitchen style you prefer. The decision has to be a reflection of your style and taste. When remodelling, prioritise spending in a way that makes sense. What you need is a kitchen that fits into your lifestyle. If you need to finance the project, consider taking out a personal loan. There’s no collateral required. Equally, you can save a chunk of money for the project. It's just that you’ll have to wait longer to get the kitchen of your dreams.