Five Strategies to Achieve This Look
As we approach the upcoming year, it is essential to incorporate contemporary elements into your kitchen design. While modern kitchens have traditionally been associated with sleek slab designs and glossy surfaces, the current trend is gravitating towards Shaker kitchens, which are increasingly featured on social media and kitchen mood boards. Historically regarded as a traditional design, Shaker kitchens have been revitalized with contemporary colors and hardware, with the latest iteration—slim Shaker cabinets—taking this evolution a step further.
Shaker cabinets are deeply rooted in heritage design, characterized by their framed style, which is emblematic of the Shaker movement. While a thicker frame may be suitable for a traditional kitchen aesthetic, it can appear overly substantial in a more modern context. In contrast, a thinner frame offers a subtle yet recognizable Shaker appearance that remains highly desirable.
To gain insights into the optimal styling of slim Shaker cabinets, we consulted industry experts to clarify their defining characteristics.
What Are Slim Shaker Cabinets?
“A slim Shaker kitchen represents a modern interpretation of the traditional Shaker kitchen, featuring a thinner frame and a more streamlined appearance,” explains Jen Nash, Head of Design at Magnet.
The Shaker design originates from the 18th-century religious movement in the United States, which emphasized simplicity and functionality devoid of embellishments. Although contemporary Shaker cabinets are not always handcrafted, the principle of enduring design remains intact.
“The traditional Shaker style has been a cornerstone of kitchen design for decades, offering a classic aesthetic that possesses a timeless quality while also allowing for personalization, thus providing true versatility,” adds Jen.
“As with most design trends, they evolve over time. While the traditional Shaker kitchen will continue to hold its appeal due to its timeless nature, we are witnessing adaptations of this beloved style. Consider it a middle ground between Shaker and modern flat-panel doors. We recommend pairing it with warm neutral colors, as these tones harmonize with both traditional and modern interiors,” suggests Richard Davonport, Managing Director at Davonport.
1. Enhance with Rich Colors
One of the most striking ways to modernize Shaker kitchens, as observed in mood boards and social media, is through the use of vibrant colors.
Implementing a trend-driven color scheme is an effective method to refresh a classic cabinet style. If you select a paintable option, you can easily update the color over time to align with your evolving tastes without the need to replace the cabinets.
“This trend is favored for its versatility. Micro-Shaker cabinets strike an ideal balance between classic and contemporary, making them adaptable to various design preferences. Their clean lines and subtle details can be accentuated with rich paint colors or complemented with tactile materials such as natural stone or wood to introduce warmth and texture,” explains Rachel Davis, Senior Designer at Harvey Jones.
2. Accentuate with Statement Hardware
The appeal of Shaker cabinets lies in the opportunity to enhance them with distinctive hardware. For those who favor a more elaborate interior style, it is advisable to incorporate intriguing cabinet handles, which, despite their small size, can have a significant impact.
To maintain a traditional-inspired aesthetic, Rachel recommends, “For a timeless yet personalized touch, utilize statement hardware in finishes such as antique brass or polished nickel.” Brushed brass is particularly suitable for high-traffic areas like kitchens, as it ages gracefully while remaining a prominent trend.
3. Incorporate Open Shelving
Although slim Shaker cabinets are less ornate than their traditional counterparts, they still possess a relatively intricate design. To mitigate this complexity, consider opting for open shelving instead of wall cabinetry, thereby creating a more spacious atmosphere.
This approach not only enhances the sense of space—crucial in smaller kitchens—but also allows for the display of decorative accessories, infusing the kitchen with personality and character. Ultimately, a cooking space should reflect the essence of your family, and showcasing cherished photographs and trinkets will contribute to a welcoming environment.
4. Contrast with a Statement Surface
A significant trend for 2025 involves the use of striking stone surfaces for countertops and backsplashes. This not only creates a luxurious appearance but also protects walls from cooking splatters—an advantageous combination.
This method serves as a straightforward way to modernize Shaker cabinetry, making it an ideal match for slim Shaker doors. For an even more contemporary effect, consider selecting dark-veined stone or stones in unique colors, such as rust or pink.
5. Consider Frameless Doors
Slim Shaker cabinets are positioned as a hybrid between Shaker and slab doors, facilitating their integration with more modern frameless cabinetry. If you aspire to create a versatile design that is not strictly aligned with either contemporary or traditional styles, the combination of these two door styles will yield an optimal solution.
Maintaining Shaker cabinetry for wall units provides a grounding element, while incorporating frameless slab doors (utilizing the same hardware) for an island or pantry unit will introduce a subtle contrast.
Will you adhere to traditional Shaker cabinets, or will you embrace the modern evolution of slim Shaker designs?
