Learn more about the history of the shaker kitchen

The shaker classic kitchen style is a derivative of a distinctive furniture style developed by the Shakers circa the 1860s. This religious group, founded in England in 1783, was originally part of the Quaker movement before breaking away and then relocating to America in the mid-1800s. They lived by a solid set of core values such as simplicity, utility, and honesty. Shaker communities were self-sufficient, growing crops for food, producing tools, and designing and making furniture. Their communities were separate from the outside world; this was their catalyst for mastering their furniture making and craftmanship art.

Simple minimalist design to reflect a lifestyle

Their minimalist furniture designs' strict religious beliefs were ever-present, focusing on simplicity rather than unnecessary or complicated design. They were proportional and functional but never ornamental for aesthetic purposes. This unique furniture style has evolved to meet our modern everyday living habits. Its original essence and unmistakable charm are still revered today in all shapes and forms, including the shaker kitchen, the most in-demand timeless kitchen on the market; ask any kitchen designer, and they will agree.

The shaker kitchen had a resurgence in the mid nineteenth century

The shaker design's timeless but traditional kitchen style became popular in the mid-nineteenth century. Still, its humble beginnings pre-date this to the late 1700s. It adopted its renowned name from its ancestor's craftmanship in simple, practical furniture making. The iconic cabinetry design is probably the most recognised style in many kitchens today, whether that's a contemporary kitchen or a rustic and more traditional style. There is no escaping the shakers' progressive but undeniable effect on modern kitchen styles and designs we see today.

The modern shaker kitchen in 2022

Based on the original shaker style, the modern kitchen that you will find today has adapted throughout time to meet its consumers' changing expectations and demands. The contemporary shaker kitchen is quite different now in 2022 than when it first became popular. In a modern-day shaker kitchen design and fit, you find some significant differences compared to its predecessor. The modern-day shaker cabinets have fewer beading features and appear more stripped back than the original. The half-height shaker cabinets have become more popular and sought after than the full-height to ceiling options. Another noticeable difference in how the classic shaker style has adapted to meet modern tastes is its overall versatility, combined with other contemporary features such as central islands, kitchen appliances, lighting and taps. This fusion of styles ensures the continuation of the shaker legacy is as relevant now as it has ever been but with a modern-day twist.

Visit the Plum Kitchens showroom and explore our shaker kitchen designs.

Whatever kitchen style you are keen on exploring, whether it's a contemporary open plan kitchen or a classic kitchen design, a kitchen showroom visit to Plum is highly recommended. Our kitchen industry experts are always on hand to discuss the vast range of available shaker style kitchens to meet all budgets. Our experienced team of kitchen designers can walk you through our stunning collection of shaker cabinetry so you can immerse yourself in its history. You will also benefit from an up-close and personal experience. You can feel the shaker style's true impact and how it resonates with its relevance and formidable presence but with an unrivalled simple yet compelling ambience that works for all homes.