Shaker cabinets are endlessly versatile and timeless. Their beauty lies in their simplicity. With clean lines and minimal ornamentation, they can blend into any design, and their popularity continues to grow because of their durability and craftsmanship.
Contractors, retailers and designers use these elegant cabinets to elevate projects. This guide explores every facet of ready-to-assemble (RTA) Shaker cabinets.
What Are Shaker Cabinets?
Shaker cabinets are a type of minimalist cabinet design with recessed panels. Square edges give Shaker cabinets their signature clean lines. These cabinets have a five-piece door, including two vertical stiles and two horizontal rails framing the center panel. Traditional cabinet construction used solid wood like maple or birch. Today's manufacturers use more modern materials, such as plywood and medium-density fiberboard (MDF). RTA options are delivered in pieces with all the hardware necessary for assembly.
Shaker furniture originated during the 1700s from the "Shaking Quakers" (Shakers) religious movement. The Shakers used their crafting skills to make simple yet functional furniture. The appeal of Shaker-style furniture has endured for its longevity and sturdy construction.
The Benefits of Shaker Cabinets
Shaker cabinets are a versatile addition to any space. Their benefits include:
- Simplicity: Shaker cabinets' understated design is part of their draw. The lack of decorative ornate elements allows them to fit into any style. They complement the interior rather than steal the spotlight.
- Timelessness: Shaker cabinets are unphased by changing trends, which is an attractive feature for designers, contractors and clients.
- Durability: High-quality materials and robust construction give Shaker cabinets a long life span.
- Versatility: These cabinets complement aesthetics ranging from rustic to modern. Although usually found in kitchens, Shaker cabinets also suit bathrooms, offices and laundry rooms.
- Easy maintenance: The flat, straightforward design makes them simple to clean with a quick wipe using a damp cloth.
- Customization: Some clients want to add personality to their cabinets. Various colors, finishes and hardware options allow them to express their unique style.
- Cost-effectiveness: Shaker cabinets can be more affordable than other high-end products. Their longevity adds long-term value. Consider these cabinets when your clients want a cost-effective option without compromising quality.
Shaker RTA Cabinet Design Guide
You might be considering RTA Shaker cabinets for your next project. Here's how these cabinets shape up.
Cabinet Construction
Modern Shaker cabinets have evolved since their introduction in the 18th century. While the construction is as sturdy as ever, the materials have changed. Today's cabinets may feature:
- Plywood: This manufactured material comprises bonded wood veneer layers (plies). Rigid plywood resists warping and moisture.
- MDF: MDF panels are created by adding wax and resin to broken-down hardwood or softwood residuals.
- Solid hardwood: Each solid hardwood plank comes from a single piece of wood.
- Natural wood: Unlike manufactured products, natural wood retains its color and grain. Professionals often apply a UV coating to protect the wood.
The joint contributes to Shaker cabinets' durability. A dovetail joint adds strength to the cabinet's construction.
Color and Finish Options
Shaker cabinets' minimalist, classic style shines through in their color options. Instead of bright hues, these cabinets often rely on a simple, understated color palette that whispers rather than shouts. Popular variations include:
- RTA wood cabinets: A natural wood look adds charm to a rustic or farmhouse-style kitchen.
- RTA white Shaker cabinets: White provides a blank canvas that complements any space and can make it feel bigger.
- Light gray Shaker cabinets: Gray cabinets suit a more modern aesthetic. This shade pairs well with anything from soft neutrals to bright pops of color. For daring designers, adding a burst of yellow, pink or green can bring gray cabinets to life.
- Navy blue Shaker kitchen cabinets: This regal hue exudes sophistication and tranquility.
You can choose from different finishes to enhance the cabinet's look. A matte finish is low-shine and reflects little light. Semi-gloss has a more polished appearance, which can make details stand out. Gloss is a high-shine finish with a sleek, modern touch but may show smudges more than matte options. Staining can intensify or change the wood's natural color and grain for RTA wood cabinets.
Hardware Selection
Hardware is where you or your client get to play. A brass knob or sleek pull can change a Shaker cabinet's look. Knobs are the original hardware choice for the Shaker style, offering a more classic appeal. Pulls, which look more like handles, suit a modern, minimalist aesthetic. Both options complement Shaker styles — it comes down to personal taste and the room's aesthetic. You could also mix and match to add visual interest.
Hardware finish options can change the look. Brushed nickel is a subtle option that works well in modern or classic interior design. Matte black makes a bold statement contrasted against a white cabinet. Polished brass invokes warmth and elegance, perfect for homes with a vintage feel. An oil-rubbed bronze finish gives hardware an antique authenticity, wearing over time for an aged look.
Sizing and Configuration
RTA Shaker cabinets typically come in standard sizes. However, manufacturers can often customize the height, width and depth to meet unique requirements. Shaker cabinets come in the following configurations:
- Base cabinets: These cabinets connect to the floor and support surfaces like kitchen counters. Examples of base cabinets include spice rack pullouts, sink cabinets and corner units.
- Wall cabinets: This type of cabinet mounts on the wall above base cabinets for extra storage space.
- Tall cabinets: A tall cabinet reaches from the floor to the ceiling or is the same height as a wall cabinet.
- Pantry cabinets: Manufacturers typically custom-make pantry cabinets to fit the space and homeowner's needs. These cabinets provide storage space for kitchen supplies.
Functionality and Storage Solutions
A top advantage of Shaker cabinets is their functionality. Features like soft-close hinges and draw slides allow for smooth, quiet operation. If the stock cabinet design fails to meet a client's needs, specialty cabinets can fill the gap. Examples include wall wine racks, open-end shelves, tailored pantries or corner units.
Shaker cabinets also offer clever storage solutions. Pullout shelves, dividers and custom cabinets use every inch of space for a clean, uncluttered room. Find the perfect match for a large home with many items or a small kitchen needing inventive storage.
Take Control of Your Shaker Cabinet Design
Are you excited about the benefits of Shaker cabinets but unsure if they will fit your client's style? Try an innovative virtual design tool to see how these cabinets complement a space before investing. Impress your clients by showing them their ideal kitchen without spending a dollar. Using a tool like this is simple:
- Upload a photo of the room, or use a sample photo.
- Select the cabinet option from the right side of the screen.
- Generate the image to see your vision come to life!
Discover Premium RTA Shaker Cabinets at KitchenCrest Cabinets
KitchenCrest Cabinets (KCC) brings style, class and organizational wonder to your client's kitchen. Each cabinet blends stunning good looks with practical functionality. We supply premium RTA Shaker cabinets for contractors, interior designers and retailers. Discover how a simple cabinet can transform a room — your customers will appreciate the quality construction, trendy colors and easy maintenance. A world of customization options lets them create the kitchen of their dreams.
At KCC, we deliver exceptional customer service. Enjoy speedy delivery, outstanding support and the highest-quality products. Contact us today to discuss your unique needs with our cabinet experts.
