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Find out the origin of Shaker kitchens and how they’ve evolved into the Shaker style kitchen we know today, including kitchen storage solutions and hardware.
If you’re currently planning your new kitchen design, then you’ve probably seen and heard a lot about Shaker style kitchens. But what makes a shaker kitchen? What makes it different from other kitchen styles? Not many people realise the origin of shaker kitchens; it’s pretty interesting, so stick around to find out more!
The Shakers were a religious sect founded in England back in 1783! The name comes from ‘Shaking Quakers’. Initially, they were part of the Quakers, but in the mid-18th-century, they went their separate ways. The Shakers later fled to America, which is how their design style spread across the globe.
The Shaker community took pride in being self-sufficient; they grew their own crops, built their own furniture and separated themselves almost entirely from the outside world. Partially thanks to their core religious values, they believed everything they made should be functional and practical.
Shakers built everything as efficiently as possible to avoid unneeded labour and material wastage. They used offcuts of wood to create their kitchens, which is where we get the ‘framed’ shaker kitchen door style from that we know today. The ‘frame’ design of shaker style doors makes them sturdy and practical, meaning they could withstand years of use.
With a robust build quality and timeless design, it’s no surprise that Shaker kitchens are a popular kitchen style worldwide. They are a staple in the kitchen design world, and have been in fashion for hundreds of years!
Shaker kitchens have, however, come a long way since their inception. The modern adaptation of shaker kitchens is less simplistic than the original - different colours and designs have been integrated into the shaker style to keep it more in line with modern interior design styles.
It is easy to spot a shaker style kitchen, just take a look at the cupboard doors. They have a flat centre panel with a raised frame around the edge of the door. This outer frame is what originally helped keep the door sturdy. The doors are without extra adornment, remaining simple in design.
Initially, shaker kitchens would always have handles made from the same wood as the units. This meant no materials were wasted, and the look remained simple.
Modern shaker style kitchens have evolved and now usually have metal kitchen hardware. Albeit a different material, the handles are generally kept in line with shaker beliefs by staying humble and straightforward.
Shakers would always make their kitchens with the cheapest but best quality wood available. Initially, the units were usually stained to keep the wood natural or painted with simplistic, understated colours.
Now, shaker style kitchens are available in a vast range of woods and colours, whatever shade you’re after. Oak is usually a preferred material, as you can still see the natural grain when painted (a subtle nod to the original Shaker style!)
Traditional Shaker kitchens had cleverly integrated storage, like drawers in tables and peg hooks for tea towels. Everything had its place in the original Shaker kitchens.
We now have modern storage solutions for kitchens, staying in line with original Shaker beliefs. Corner rotating carousels are a fantastic way to use up space otherwise wasted in corner units. Cutlery inserts for kitchen drawers keep all your bits and bobs organised, even available with designated spice jar and tin foil slots!
A trendy choice in 2021, open shelving adds a stylish element to your shaker style kitchen - perfect if you prefer things a bit busier. Open shelving is perfect for showcasing all your favourite tableware and keeping your choice cookbooks close to hand. You can also style them up by adding lighting or a contrasting colour, injecting a bit of personality to your kitchen!
Dark, rich and classic colours are more popular for kitchens right now than ever before. Emerald green, navy blue, dust grey; all are great ways to make a statement. Consequently, it’s no surprise these timeless colours have been paired with the ever-popular Shaker style kitchens.
As traditional Shaker kitchens used natural wood, it only seems right to keep this original feature alive in modern Shaker style kitchens.
Wooden worktops are striking against light or dark units. You can incorporate natural wood in your open shelving, even just by adding a few accessories such as chopping boards!
Are you considering a Shaker Style kitchen? Here at German Kitchen Specialist we have a vast range of shaker kitchens in various colours and materials. We supply Nobilia kitchens, one of Germany’s most popular kitchen manufacturers. Contact us today to start designing your dream Shaker style kitchen!
