What is a Shaker Kitchen?

With interior trends continuously shifting, the role and design of the modern kitchen is constantly evolving – In this blog we explain the characteristics of the ‘Shaker Kitchen’ as well as showcasing some of the popular Shaker ranges available from the STORI Collection.

You can also browse our Inspiration Gallery for additional design inspo, where you’ll find ‘shaker’ style doors in kitchens, bedrooms and living spaces.

Clifden – Heritage Green

An Introduction to Shaker Kitchens: What Are They?

Known for their classic, clean and simple configuration, Shaker style kitchen doors feature a 5-piece design with a recessed centre panel.

Pembridge – Reed Green

What Makes It a Shaker?

There are lots of variations of the popular Shaker style door. We’ve helped make things a little simpler by explaining the distinct door style below:

• Shaker: Characterised by a recessed centre panel and raised edges, a Shaker door boasts a classic style that’s associated with minimalist aesthetics, making it sought after for its versatility as well as being a popular choice in both traditional and contemporary home designs. A Shaker door’s timeless appeal and straightforward elegance makes it a favoured option not only for kitchens, but also bedrooms and other living spaces in the home.
• Shaker with Integrated Handle: A Shaker with an integrated handle is a modern take on the classic Shaker door design. This style features a sleek, recessed handle which is built into the frame of the door, eliminating the need for protruding hardware. Its handleless design not only enhances the overall aesthetic by creating a clean and streamlined look but also adds functionality by making it easier to open and close the door without added hardware.
• Shaker with Internal Bead: A Shaker with an internal bead is a variation of the traditional Shaker door that features a decorative groove, or bead along the inside edge of the frame. This subtle detail adds depth and visual interest to the door, while maintaining the clean lines and simplicity characteristic of Shaker design. The internal bead enhances the overall elegance of the door without overwhelming its classic style, making it a popular choice in both modern and traditional settings.

• Narrow Shaker: Sometimes referred to as a ‘Skinny Shaker’ or ‘Slim Shaker;’ Narrow Shaker-style kitchens are an excellent choice for smaller kitchens or spaces where you want to create the illusion of a larger, more open area. The term “Narrow Shaker” refers to cabinets that have a thinner, more streamlined frame. These cabinets still maintain the traditional Shaker design elements, such as flat panels and clean lines, but their narrower proportions help create a more open, spacious feel in compact kitchens.
• Narrow Shaker with Double-Stepped Profile: A Narrow Shaker door with a double-stepped profile is a refined variation of the classic Shaker door featuring two distinct layers or steps along its frame. This design adds depth and dimension to the otherwise simple and flat surface, creating a more sophisticated look while maintaining the clean lines characteristic of Shaker style. The narrow width makes it suitable for smaller spaces, while the double-stepped detail enhances its visual appeal, making it a striking choice for modern kitchens, bedrooms, and living spaces.
• Narrow Shaker with Internal Bead: A Narrow Shaker door with an internal bead is a stylish and functional variation of the classic Shaker design, featuring a slim frame and a decorative groove along the inside edge. This internal bead adds subtle texture and sophistication to the door while preserving the clean, minimalist aesthetic typical of Shaker doors.

Why Choose a Shaker?

• Versatile, Timeless Appeal: The beauty of Shaker kitchens lies in their versatility. Their timeless appeal means they can easily blend with various décor styles, from traditional to contemporary. Whether you choose a bright colour palette or stick to natural wood finishes, Shaker kitchens can be tailored to reflect your personal style while ensuring a cohesive home aesthetic. This also makes them perfect for homeowners who want a kitchen that will never go out of style, resulting in a wise long-term investment.
• Simple Design & Easy Maintenance: Renowned for their simple, clean lines, Shaker kitchens boast a highly functional design that maximises usability. Thanks to their flat panels and smooth surface, Shaker kitchens are easy to clean and maintain.
• Quality: Craftsmanship is at the heart of Shaker kitchens. Made from a range of high-quality materials including solid wood or MDF, Shaker doors are built to last. This makes them an incredibly practical choice for busy families who want durable doors that will withstand the wear and tear of daily kitchen activities.
• Fabulous Finishes: Shaker doors are available in a wide range of attractive finishes to match your own unique style and décor. From the durable, yet affordable appeal of foil to the natural allure of Light Oak, as well as the premium and luxurious beauty of painted woodgrain and smooth matte painted timber, there are finishes to cater for both the style and functionality of your Shaker kitchen.

Aldana – Porcelain and Cashmere

STORI Shaker Ranges

We’ve listed all of our STORI Shaker kitchen ranges by their door style below. Feel free to have a browse and fuel your design inspo!

Shaker: Florence, Georgia, Kensington, Madison

Shaker with Integrated Handle: Harborne

Shaker with Internal Bead: Wakefield

Narrow Shaker: Aldana, Clifden, Dawson

Narrow Shaker with Double-Stepped Profile: Lawrenson

Narrow Shaker with Internal Bead: Pembridge

Left to right: Dawson – Graphite | Lawrenson – Stone | Pembridge – Reed Green

A Shaker kitchen offers numerous benefits that extend beyond mere aesthetics. Its classic design, functionality, and durability make it a worthwhile investment for homeowners seeking both beauty and practicality. Whether you’re remodelling or building a new home, consider the Shaker style as an elegant and timeless choice that can enhance your kitchen for years to come.

Ready to start designing your new Shaker kitchen? Reach out to one of our approved STORI retailers today and book a design appointment.