Shaker kitchen cabinets provide a sense of both simplicity and tradition. Inspired by the Shakers, an 18th-century religious group that believed in modesty, Shaker-style cabinets are characterized by their minimal ornamentation, muted colors, and classic aesthetics. Shaker kitchen cabinets offer timeless designs that never seem out of style and work well with complementary décors like travertine countertops or simple backsplash styles. The highest quality Shaker-style cabinets are hand-crafted from premium-grade materials such as maple wood with durable hardware for consistent performance over time. Shaker-style kitchen cabinets may be the perfect option for creating an elegant, timeless atmosphere in their home.
How to Choose Shaker Kitchen Cabinets
Choosing shaker-style kitchen cabinets can be a little daunting. But with a few basic facts in mind, you’ll have a much easier time getting exactly what you want.
- Framed vs. frameless
Choosing between framed and frameless shaker kitchen cabinets is a matter of personal taste. Both styles provide an elegant look. They can complement contemporary, traditional, or modern designs. While frameless cabinets may cost a little more to construct, they are more functional and easier to clean.
Framed cabinets are made with a face frame, a decorative element that includes two horizontal pieces of solid hardwood. These rails are 1-1/2″ wide. They are supported by vertical pieces known as stiles. They act as a reinforcement for the cabinet’s horizontal strength at the front opening. Framed cabinets also have mitered edges on the corners. These edges create a polished look and more structural support. They are also perceived as stronger than frameless cabinets.
Framed cabinets are often made from more durable materials, meaning they will last longer. They are also easier to install. The hardware used in framed cabinets are attached to the plywood sides, not the cabinet body. The hinges are also mounted on the sides. They may need to be adjusted to keep the cabinet straight and symmetrical.
- Rail-and-panel construction
Unlike other cabinets, shaker kitchen cabinets feature a simple, rectangular design with straight lines. They can be used as the focal point of your kitchen or as a backdrop. You can use a variety of stylistic techniques to customize your shaker cabinets. They’re easy to clean and keep your kitchen looking beautiful. To build shaker-style cabinets, you must understand the basics of rails and stiles. You’ll need to know how the framework is milled first, then how the doors are assembled. This will help you determine the size and shape of your cabinet.
The framework for a shaker cabinet is made up of two vertical stiles and two horizontal rails. The rails are a full inch wide and fit between the vertical stiles. This allows the stiles to slop slightly and make the door panel look more substantial. The width of your rails will vary from cabinet to cabinet. Some cabinetmakers add about half an inch to the width. This is a personal preference.
- Longevity
Whether you’re building a new home or remodeling your current one, the timeless Shaker-style kitchen cabinets are a great choice. These cabinets are made from solid wood and can be stained or painted to match your style. They’re also easy to maintain, making them a great option for busy families.
Shaker kitchen cabinets are known for their clean lines and timeless look. They’re also made from quality materials, ensuring they’ll last for years. And, unlike many styles, Shaker cabinets can be placed in just about any kitchen setting. They’re also available in a wide range of colors, making it easy to find one that’s right for your space.
In addition to their traditional look, shaker cabinets also offer exceptional craftsmanship. They’re constructed using high-quality joinery methods, such as dovetail joints for drawers and mortise-and-tenon joints for cabinets. Traditionally, Shaker-style kitchen cabinets were made of hardwoods, such as maple, pine, and cherry. Today, they can be made from various materials, including particleboard, hardwood, oak, and poplar.