The Shakers were a devout group of people that fled England in the 1770s to escape religious persecution. They eventually settled in colonial America, where they they lived a peaceful, communal lifestyle, with strict rules that set them apart from regular society. Because of this, they were largely self-sufficient, growing their own food, and building their own homes and furniture. Perhaps best known for their distinctive furniture and custom cabinetry style, their belief in the principles of honesty, humility, simplicity, and utility is reflected in the clean lines and quality craftsmanship that is the hallmark of Shaker design. Here are a few more elements of Shaker design, and some tips to help you incorporate the look in your kitchen.
Shaker Kitchen Cabinets
Shaker kitchen cabinets have a clean and classic appeal that would be at home in any style of kitchen — from traditional to contemporary. Stripped of unnecessary embellishments and ornamentation, Shaker cabinetry often features flat panel doors with rail frames. Quality craftsmanship and function is key, with the result being a beautiful kitchen that will stand the test of time.
You will often find dark Shaker cabinetry in modern kitchens, paired with granite countertops, stainless steel appliances and modern hardware. White or light Shaker cabinets lend themselves to transitional kitchens, while warm wood tones function well in traditional kitchens, when paired with conventional knobs and pulls.
At Willow Lane Cabinetry, you will find nearly 20 varieties of Shaker kitchen cabinets, including the Society Shaker, Midtown Shaker, Sanibel Shaker, and Manchester Shaker collections, custom made to order. Choose from White, Cream, Canvas, Tidewater, Sage, Khaki, Light Gray, Dove Gray, Steel Gray, Dark Gray, Walnut, Brandywine, Espresso, and Black finishes, as well as complimentary hardware to complete the look of your custom cabinetry.
In keeping with the Shaker tradition, Willow Lane Cabinetry is well-made, with solid maple face and door frames, all plywood box, I-beam construction, and solid hardwood, dovetailed drawer boxes with under mount, soft close, full extension drawer glides standard. Expert designers can help you create a custom layout with 3D renderings that fit your budget.
Shaker Kitchen Furniture
Like Shaker kitchen cabinets, Shaker furniture does not feature intricate carvings, or other decorative details. Such embellishment was considered sinful to the Shakers and their religious beliefs. Furniture was made to serve a purpose, and to fill a basic need. Maple, pine, or cherry was commonly used in Shaker furniture, and was either stained or painted.
Shaker kitchen chairs have a simple, ladder back design. Historically, this style allowed the Shakers to hang their chairs the wall, when not in use. These chairs also feature turned, tapered legs to eliminate excess wood and weight. The addition of natural, woven materials, such as caned seats, not only added some simple visual interest, but also made the furniture as light as possible. Many Shaker chairs were designed at a slight angle for comfort. Shaker kitchen tables are made from solid wood, without veneers. Just like Shaker chairs, they have turned, tapered legs, and clean, simple lines.
Welcome to Willow Lane Cabinetry — the #1 place to buy affordable, semi-custom cabinets online! Let us help you create the kitchen of your dreams with our 100% free kitchen design tool. We offer all wood, semi-custom kitchen cabinets, fully assembled and delivered for free, with standard features like soft closing doors and drawers, and 6-way adjustable steel hinges. Plus all the accessories you need to complete your new kitchen and more. We give you more and save you money! Visit our website to see our beautiful products today!