Shaker-style kitchens have been around for over 150 years, and it’s easy to see why. Since their origins in the 1860s, Shaker spaces have become a long-enduring trend in homes worldwide.
The principles of Shaker design are effortless simplicity: clean lines, neutral colours and a focus on craftsmanship. Shaker kitchens let the design do the talking and often prioritise minimalism for that ‘country cottage’ feel.
But how can homeowners decorate their brand-new kitchen while staying true to Shaker roots?
1. Be bold with colour
In the past, Shaker kitchens have often been defined by subdued, mellow tones. However, in 2024, there are plenty of opportunities to move beyond this.
While soft greys, off-whites, and pale blues remain popular, many homeowners are now making bold statements with their cabinet colours.
Deep, moody hues like navy, forest green, and even charcoal are increasingly favoured for Shaker kitchens. These darker shades are both understated and sophisticated: the epitome of Shaker style.
For those looking to be even more daring, shades like rich burgundy, mustard, or even deep English red are being used across the entire kitchen (or as striking contrasts on kitchen islands or feature cabinets).
Taking a bold approach to colour in a Shaker kitchen will require three things: you must consider the size of the room, traditional Shaker shades and, of course, your personal taste!
2. Open shelving
No one likes cluttered cupboards, and in Shaker-style ex-display kitchens (where utility takes priority), open shelving can be a great way to stay accountable. Unlike closed cabinets, open shelves provide easy access to frequently used items.
The absence of cabinet doors helps to open up the kitchen, which is especially useful for smaller homes. However, one of the main reasons open shelving is so compatible with the Shaker style is because of its clean, understated lines.
Open shelves can break up rows of solid cabinets, which introduces visual interest without looking too ‘out there’. Some may replace upper cabinets entirely with shelves for an open feel. Others may opt for a combination, such as a single wall of open shelves or even using shelves in place of a pantry.
3. Pick a pantry
Speaking of pantries, they’re a natural fit for Shaker-style kitchens. The origins of Shaker kitchens are rooted in craftsmanship and a no-frills approach to living, and pantries are the perfect extension of that philosophy.
When it comes to integrating one into your Shaker kitchen, we recommend either a built-in or freestanding pantry. Built-in pantries are (most often) custom-made to fit the specific dimensions of your kitchen.
These are particularly well-suited for smaller kitchens and can come with customisable shelving, pull-out drawers, and door-mounted organisers, the best choice for storing bulky appliances or pantry staples.
Freestanding pantries are the more ‘traditional’ choice. These equally charming statement pieces can stand apart from the main run of cabinetry and are often designed to resemble classic English heritage furniture.
Style them in traditional Shaker colours, like white, cream, or soft grey. For added drama, go for deeper tones of navy and forest green!
4. Unpainted cabinetry
The Shaker ethos of natural beauty puts a great emphasis on minimalism. So, what better way to follow this than by letting the grain of your wooden cabinets take centre stage?
The Shaker movement was grounded in the idea that every part of a piece should be well-made, including elements that aren't always visible.
Unpainted cabinetry allows homeowners can appreciate the quality of the wood and the skilled joinery that goes into each piece, such as dovetail joints and solid wood construction.
They also provide a foundation for other design elements, like stone worktops, exposed beams, or porcelain stone-effect tile: all materials that, when combined, bring the outdoors inside.
5. Patterned wallpaper
Just because Shaker kitchens are neutral doesn’t mean you can’t give them personality! Patterned wallpaper is a low-cost, minimal-effort way to add more of yourself to the kitchen.
Shaker styles lend well to customisation. Floral or botanical patterns, specifically, make excellent choices for feature walls. If you’re looking to keep things simple, the linear quality of stripes can echo the clean lines of Shaker cabinets.
You could even use geometric patterns or leaf prints to keep up the ‘natural beauty’ theme that Shaker kitchens are loved for.
6. Mix and match hardware
Layering hardware in your Shaker kitchen is a subtle, impactful way to create visual interest. Who knew that kitchen taps could have such a big effect? (we did!)
For instance, using classic round knobs for upper cabinets and contrasting them with more substantial cup pulls or bar handles on lower cabinets can stop the space from feeling monotonous (particularly in larger kitchens).
Homeowners with lighter Shaker cabinets can purchase matte-black kitchen mixer taps to create a monochromatic palette. Or, go for classic chrome kitchen spray taps and get an up-to-date look that still feels homely.
7. Tiled floor
Tiles have been associated with kitchens as far back as the Victorian era! Not only are they wipe-clean, but kitchen tiles are great for withstanding heavy footfall from kids, pets and family members for decades.
Typically manufactured from stone or ceramic, these materials are the practical choice favoured by those with busy kitchens. They offer exactly the kind of earthy charm that complements Shaker styles, particularly stone-effect or white-gloss marble. Plus, tiles are adaptable: they’re equally appropriate for use on walls.
American-style ‘Subway’ tiles are a retro choice, as are micro tiles with minimal grout lines. When purchased in dark greens, reds and blues, they make beautiful feature walls or backsplashes.
8. Belfast sink
No shaker kitchen would be complete without a farmhouse-style Belfast sink.
The Belfast sink, which originated in the 18th century, is beloved for its classic ceramic construction and deep, rectangular shape. Their deep basin design gives homeowners plenty of space for washing large pots, pans, and baking trays.
For family homes (or those who love cooking!), the Belfast sink’s fireclay ceramic construction means it can handle the demands of an active kitchen without succumbing to stains or damage from high temperatures.
9. Embrace natural materials
A point we’ve made time and time again, the Shaker movement appreciated all things simple. That’s why you’ll often see Shaker kitchens with natural materials like wood, stone, and other organic elements.
Wood is perhaps the most iconic staple, as it reflects the original practices of the Shaker communities, who handcrafted their cabinetry from locally sourced wood.
Honey-toned wood, for example, pairs beautifully with white or soft pastel Shaker cabinets. Stone is another must-have for worktops. You could even create architectural interest by keeping wooden beams and brickwork exposed!
10. Balance light and dark
Not everyone likes deep hues and pastel colours. For homeowners who prefer a monochrome palette, learning how to balance light and dark is a Shaker kitchen essential.
One method that works expertly for smaller kitchens is to use darker base cabinets paired with lighter wall cabinets or open shelving. With this tactic, you can create contrast while preventing the area from feeling too heavy.
Or, for a more subtle touch, you can use contrasting hardware, islands or accent pieces in your Shaker kitchen. A light grey or cream-coloured kitchen with a forest green island, for instance, gives the room a sophisticated, understated focal point.
Shop for ex-display and used kitchens with Rehome!
At Rehome, there’s no shortage of Shaker-style, approved used kitchens.
You can find heavily reduced ex-display suites from designer brands, like Masterclass, Martin Moore and Schuller: all for thousands of pounds less than their original price!
With Rehome’s luxury selection, you can decorate your new purchase with your favourite of our top 10 shaker kitchen ideas. So, if it’s time for you to live in possible, contact us today.
