Shaker-style kitchen cabinets are in high demand for many modern remodeling projects, but many homeowners may find themselves wondering how they got such a distinctive name. Drawing inspiration from the 1800s, this timeless look continues to be a great fit for today, blending well with a wide variety of kitchen designs. Here's a closer look at both the history and style.

Who Were the Shakers?

The Shakers are a Christian denomination that was founded in the 18th century. At the time, they were distinguished for their unique form of worship, which included ritual dancing and “shaking.” The last remaining member to be raised as a Shaker passed away in 2017.

People of this faith were committed to the ideas of simplicity and self-reliance. This resulted in Shakers largely designing and building their own furniture, typically using high-quality, locally sourced wood. Their pieces used a simple utilitarian design that was free of ornamentation or embellishment. As a result, Shaker craftsmen placed a heavy emphasis on quality, and their work was designed to last for generations.

What Shaker-Style Kitchen Cabinets Are Like

The clean, straight lines of Shaker furniture give it a minimalist look that remains highly popular today. This simple look allows Shaker-style cabinets to blend well with traditional, modern, country, or minimalist designs. The doors use a flat, recessed panel that is surrounded by simple rail frames. Some cabinets have a raised center as part of the recessed flat panel. The cabinets are often painted white or light gray.

Essentially, if cabinets are distinguished by plain squares and rails with straight edges and no ornamentation, they are likely influenced by classic Shaker design. Like Shaker products of old, the use of high-quality materials ensures they will stand up to the rigors of your kitchen for a generation or more.

If you’re interested in Shaker-style kitchen cabinets as part of your next remodeling project, contact Perspective Cabinetry & Design in Saint Louis, MO. Serving Greater St. Louis County since 2000, their expert team provides quality design services to help you find the custom solution that will work best for your home. To learn more about their services and get a quote, give them a call at (314) 716-3525. Visit them online to view examples of their beautiful kitchen work.