Kitchen cabinets represent the homeowner’s personality, which is why they need to be more valuable and attractive in design. Since they tend to cover a wide area in the kitchen, it only makes sense to design and maintain them well in all aspects. Not only do they make a kitchen look stylish but also make it appear spacious and organized. Before you decide to install new cabinets in your kitchen, it is important to understand the different types of cabinets and the way each of them can highlight a homeowner’s personality. This article explores the pros and cons of shaker-style cabinets.
What are Shaker-Style Cabinets?
A shaker-style cabinet is a common variant of kitchen cabinets distinguished by its 5-piece door and a recessed center panel.
The door consists of two flattop rails, two flat-side rails, and a flat-inset panel. The design of the cupboards is simple, clean, and timeless but distinctive enough to enhance the appearance of a kitchen space. Not only is it unique but also attractive in both style and perspective. Different manufacturers improve the aesthetics of shaker-style cabinets by adding a few decorative details on the front of drawers.
“Shakers” is a term that originated from seasoned artisans who used minimalistic materials in most of their work. This religious community of artisans had its origins rooted in England before they moved and settled in North America. Since the 18th century, the word ‘shakers’ became synonymous and was used to depict the specific kitchen cabinet style featuring the approach used in the design. The shakers strongly believed in simplicity and the shaker-style cabinets have been around for centuries due to their outstanding artistry.
The two attributes that made this cabinet so popular for renovations were its durability and function. The clean lines of the cabinet make it function beautifully without overpowering the aesthetics of the kitchen.
Pros of Shaker-Style Cabinets
Simplicity
One of the major reasons why homeowners love shaker-style cabinets is their simplicity. They have a simple and timeless design that can transition through many years without losing its beauty, attractiveness, and relevance. You can also update it by changing the hardware or adding a fresh coat of paint to keep up with trends.
Versatility
Shaker-style kitchen cabinets are compatible with most kitchen styles and concepts whether it is traditional, modern, contemporary, or transitional. It gives you room to express yourself through its flexibility in design. You can personalize these cabinets based on your taste or preferred design, as they do not have any embellishments. You can also add beaded or beveled edges to your cabinet doors.
Ease of Maintenance
The simple design of shaker cabinets makes them very easy to maintain. Unlike most cabinet designs, you do not have to worry about dirt and debris because it has few surfaces possible for collecting dirt. All you need is a simple wipe to eliminate the dirt and leave your cabinet looking neat and clean. Shaker cabinets are a great choice for homeowners who are addicted to clean kitchens.
Great Resale Value
Looking from an investment perspective, shaker-style cabinets offer a great return on investment. Some of the reasons why buyers are looking for homes with shaker cabinets is because they look modern and attractive for young buyers while retaining the antique appeal for older buyers. Since this cabinet style is affordable and good-looking, you can always manipulate it to look more beautiful than before.
Cons of Shaker-Style Cabinets
Fewer Design Options
The overall design and style of shaker-style kitchen cabinets are based on simplicity. As a result, it offers fewer design options compared to other types of kitchen cabinets. If you want your house to have a dramatic flair with shaker cabinets, you are more likely to be limited by the options. Some of the shaker-style customization options include beaded or beveled edges on the cabinet doors.
Quick to Show Dirt
Although shaker cabinets are easy to clean and maintain, their simple design means that they can show dirt very easily compared to more ornate cabinetry. This might be common for white cabinets or if it is finished with a light color. However, you have the option to be creative with the type of finish you choose for your shaker cabinet to make it easier to clean.
Shaker-style cabinets are ideal for kitchens with a minimalistic theme. They are also a great choice for your kitchen if you are a homeowner who enjoys a mixture of modern touch with classical finishes. Shaker cabinets have a very clean look, minimalistic aesthetic, and an enduring utilitarian appeal that lends a huge impact to a kitchen setting.
