Shaker Style Kitchens

Shaker-style kitchens have come a long way since their inception in the mid-1800s. Their namesakes, the Shakers, were an industrious people known for their architecture and furniture craftsmanship. And they certainly knew what they were doing! The iconic cabinetry and durable design principles of Shaker-style kitchens are enduring and distinctive.

If you’re asking yourself ‘What are Shaker cabinets?’ this article is for you. We’ll go through the basics of Shaker kitchens, how to modernise them, and what it’s like working with Refresh. 

Features of a traditional Shaker-style kitchen

The traditional Shaker style of design was born out of necessity as a group called the Quakers left England and emigrated to colonial America. In their isolated communities they had to learn to be self-sufficient which required them to master a variety of trades and skills, furniture making and carpentry included, with limited resources. This led to creating a style that valued craftsmanship and functionality over decoration. But don’t mistake simple for basic; Shakers had a keen eye for detail and used high quality materials to ensure their pieces withstood the test of time. 

Shaker kitchen doors, high-quality joinery, and Shaker-style cabinets

It’s easy to spot the most recognisable characteristics of the traditional Shaker design. First, Shaker-style cabinets. Known for their frame-and-panel construction, clean lines, and minimal or no hardware, Shaker-style cabinets suit a myriad of settings from rustic cottage to modern farmhouse. Shaker kitchen doors share the same features and are typically unfinished or stained with a light wash to allow the natural wood grain to shine. 

Modernising a Shaker kitchen

At their most basic, Shaker kitchens are simple designs with core principles that don’t differ drastically from those of minimalism - they’re practical, functional, and uncluttered. However, Shaker-style kitchens do tend to be more traditional with an abundance of natural, often warm-toned, timber details which can make them feel dated. Having said that, Shaker simplicity is versatile and acts as a blank canvas for you to customise to suit your personal style.

Designing a modern Shaker kitchen can be as easy as choosing a bold or moody colour palette, installing an upscale benchtop, or opting for architectural light fixtures that can alter the entire vibe. Take this Melbourne renovation for example; the base of the cabinetry is very much in line with the Shaker style, but adding beadboard details and a unique embossed tin splashback results in a bespoke design that’s anything but traditional. 

Cost of a Shaker kitchen renovation in Australia

Every renovation is different, and costs fluctuate greatly depending on the scope of a project. Cosmetic updates are more cost-effective than major structural changes and bespoke design solutions will drive costs. But we’ve delivered kitchen renovations in Australia for anywhere from $20,000*-$80,000*+.

Here we have two unique designs that feature modern takes on Shaker cabinetry and elements: this kitchen (and bathroom) renovation cost $110,000*, and to transform this kitchen cost $52,000*. Follow the links to learn the details of each project. 

Designing a Shaker-style kitchen with Refresh

To kick off your kitchen design journey, you’ll partner with a Renovation Consultant and begin by discussing basics such as your goals, budget, and ideal timeline. Often, as homeowners dive deeper into the conversation, they find they need to adjust their expectations, whether that involves an unrealistic budget or an unachievable deadline. But our Renovation Consultants have designed fantastic kitchens at a variety of price points and will work with you to come up with a plan you love.

During the concept and costing phases, you’ll be able to see 3D renderings of possible designs with multiple iterations if needed. This lets you see your ideas come to life and make changes as you see fit. Don’t like the colour? Want to change the flooring? No problem! 

Once you’ve come to a decision, your Renovation Consultant will provide you with a fixed quote according to the scope of work you’ve agreed upon. This way there are no surprises. 

When it comes time to build your Shaker-style kitchen, your Renovation Consultant will coordinate a team of general contractors and specialists - such as a master joiner or carpenter with experience in Shaker cabinets and features - to bring your vision to life. Whatever your project needs, Refresh will work hard to make it happen. We’re dedicated to delivering fantastic results on time and within budget.  

Could your kitchen design use a shake-up?

If your kitchen is boring, dated, or simply not working for your lifestyle anymore, get in touch with a Renovation Consultant. We offer free, no-obligation consultations so getting started is easy.