5 affordable ways to create a bespoke-looking slim Shaker kitchen

Slim Shaker kitchens are the fastest-growing kitchen trend of the year. Indeed, thanks to a fresh twist on a timeless classic, designers can’t get enough. As a homeowner, you might not be familiar with this new style.

It makes sense. After all, unless you’re a professional kitchen expert or have a questionable obsession with cabinet doors, “Shaker kitchens” might not be a term you hear every day. Having seen it on a few lifestyle sites, however, you probably have questions:

• What is a Shaker kitchen?
• Why does everyone love them?
• How can I get one in my home?

Fortunately, here we have all the answers, plus a solid five-step breakdown you can use to help you choose the right slim Shaker design for your home. Follow this guidance and you’ll achieve an on-trend cooking space that’s guaranteed to stay in vogue for years to come.

1. Identify a Shaker kitchen

The “Shakers” – a religious offshoot of the Quakers – invented the Shaker kitchen in the 1700s. Characterised by a four-piece border and a plain centre panel without beading, visitors marvelled at its elegance and quality, and the Shaker kitchen became an instant classic.

Use this design as a base to inform your future decisions and you can’t go far wrong. It’s simple but effective, which is typical of the Shakers, who also invented spring-loaded pegs and flat brooms.

2. Fast-forward to the Slim Shaker

Shaker kitchens re-entered the limelight recently thanks to a “slim Shaker” overhaul. You know those panel borders? Think thinner. Fresher. Minimalist. Refine your Shaker kitchen search by looking out for this sleek frame. Masterclass Kitchens® Bloomsbury and Kensington ranges are solid examples that will help you achieve this undeniably modern advancement.

3. Add Handmade Shaker Kitchen Features

Your next move should be to enhance your slim Shaker kitchen with details that give it a handmade look, without the price that usually accompanies bespoke craftsmanship.

Only three Shakers still exist in the world. So, you’re unlikely to get a handmade range from the original creators. And totally bespoke ranges from commercial manufacturers can cost six figures.

Luckily, using tactical hacks, anyone can get an affordable alternative with indistinguishable quality. Try including features like a kitchen mantle and wood effect drawers, for example. Used in a Shaker kitchen, these features create the impression of tailored woodwork where standard ranges show plastic and exposed metal.

4. Include Fitted Features

Nothing says “traditional quality” like a fitted feature. Indeed, add fixed furnishings, like these built-in Hardwick benches and a Lansbury corner pantry, and you can instantly transform your kitchen into one that looks custom-made.

5. Choose a Timeless Colour

Slim Shaker kitchens look fantastic in many colours. That said, bolder choices are an acquired taste. If you want to ensure yours still looks modern after a decade, choose a versatile colour with longevity.

Black and grey have tireless appeal. If you want more colour, though, dark shades of green will make a statement that won’t age like wilting herbs.

Click here to find out more about the Shaker kitchens at Masterclass