It can be hard to keep up with changing kitchen trends – from high gloss cabinetry in some pretty ‘bold’ colors to elegant and refined wood schemes, the world of kitchen design is constantly changing and evolving.
That said, not everyone Designing a kitchen Wanting to follow trends – there’s a lot to be said for choosing a timeless look – and this is part of the beauty of a shaker kitchen. Looking as fresh and beautiful as when they were first designed, this style is worth considering if you want your kitchen to stand the test of time.
That said, this style hasn’t completely missed out on some modern updates. Step up to the ‘Slim Shaker’ kitchen – a more modern take on a classic. We asked the experts what it’s all about.
What is a Slim Shaker Kitchen?
There’s been a lot of talk about slim shaker kitchens in the design world of late, so getting to grips with what the term means is really helpful for anyone doing the research. Think kitchen right now
Al Bruce, founder Olives and barsOutlines what defines a genre. “The skinny shaker is a refined, contemporary twist on a much-loved favorite Shaker kitchen. With a slim 40mm frame on the cabinet and hidden hinges with a 20mm frame on the shaker doors, the design brings a fresh sense of lightness and sophistication to any space.”
Alex Main, Director mainExplains what these small updates to classic designs can offer homeowners. “This subtle change in style offers a more refined look, while still being consistently popular and showcasing fine craftsmanship.”
Founder Al Bruce began his illustrious career 25 years ago studying to be a cabinetmaker in college. With a natural flair for design and a deep passion for the industry, Al eventually opened his own shaker kitchen company, Olive & Bar, in 2018.
Alex is the director of Main Main, a family-run company that has been creating individual bespoke kitchens full of personality and unique style since the 1970s. The family business has built its knowledge from vast experience gained from trading in national and international markets.
How do slim shaker units differ from traditional designs?
While Slim Shaker kitchens were inspired by classic Shaker design, a style that first appeared in the mid-18th century, there are some key differences between the two types. Kitchen units to become familiar with.
Sam Harris, Senior Design Consultant Ashford Kitchens & Interiors Explains what sets them apart. “The main difference is how the proportions change the aesthetic of the door. With a classic shaker, which has a thicker frame, it creates a more handcrafted look, while a thinner frame is more understated. This more refined look is often preferred in contemporary settings because of their sleek appearance.”
“Rather than one replacing the other, the Slim and Standard Shaker styles simply offer different interpretations of the same design heritage,” Pick Up Tom Hawley, Creative Design Director at a bespoke kitchen company.
“The Slim Shaker is ideal for those seeking a transitional aesthetic that blends traditional details with contemporary simplicity, while the Standard Shaker continues to be the benchmark for enduring, classic kitchen design.”
Sam is passionate about designing dream kitchens, bedrooms and home living spaces that reflect each client’s unique lifestyle. Their creativity and attention to detail ensure that each design is both beautiful and practical – a space clients will love to live in for years to come.
Tom Hawley has spent more than 20 years designing kitchens around the way his customers live. He specializes in creating kitchen islands that balance style with smart, hardworking functionality.
Is the Slim or Classic Shaker Better?
Both of these Shaker kitchen Styles have a huge amount to offer – great looks, easy to combine with a range of other materials and easy to update or refresh. Cabinet hardware. This means that it can be difficult to decide which is the best option.
Luckily, Alex Main has some advice on where works best. “Slim Shaker doors are a great choice for those who want to add character and depth to their kitchen, without being overly traditional. They work beautifully in modern spaces, where better profiles and sleek silhouettes often abound.
“Slim Shaker units also complement bold architecture and their versatility thanks to a range of color palettes,” he continues. “Additionally, they’re a good choice for compact kitchens because the slim frame helps the cabinetry feel more open and less imposing as part of the overall scheme.”
“Slim Shaker units suit modern kitchens well, while still offering the warmth of a traditional style,” adds Sam Harris. “With a cleaner silhouette, they work beautifully as painted or wooden front doors, paired with natural stone worktops. Slim shaker doors also work well. small kitchen Because they look less busy visually and make the kitchen feel more spacious and open.
“Standard Shaker kitchens, on the other hand, are particularly well-suited to period homes because their deep frame complements traditional architectural features,” he suggests.
Tom Hawley also explains that slim shaker units are a good choice where people are aiming for more Domestic contemporary kitchen. “They are particularly popular in open-plan spaces and new-build properties, where homeowners want the warmth and character without the heaviness of a traditional country kitchen.”
Try this hardware on your slim or classic shaker door
Elite Knobs and Handles
Elite Knobs and Handles Kensington Knurled T Bar Handle Brushed Nickel 148mm
A classic T-bar shape with added detail and contrast that will sit nicely on a slim Shaker profile
long
Lontan 20 Pack Kitchen Door Handles
Pair with cabinets in timeless white or bolder shades for a contemporary finish
Wicks
Vicks Beatrice Cup Handle – Pewter Effect
For a traditional Shaker kitchen, cup handles are a classic pairing that never fails to work
Is the Slim Shaker Kitchen more expensive than the Classic?
This The cost of a new kitchen Not trivial, and you need to consider a really wide range of factors when setting your budget, from who will fit in to small details like Tiles or splashbacks. If you’re keen to keep a lid on costs, you’ll no doubt be interested in finding out the price difference between a slim and a classic Shaker kitchen.
According to Sam Harris, there is little. “The materials the units are made from, the paint finish you choose and the manufacturing method affect the cost. Slim Shaker units can sometimes be more expensive because they have finer details and potentially a more precise product.”
“There are a few variables when it comes to cost, so slim shaker units aren’t necessarily more expensive,” adds Alex Main. “From construction methods to materials, finishes and details, there are several design elements that can influence price.”
FAQs
What’s the best way to use slim shaker units in a modern kitchen?
Slim Shaker units are perfect for creating a contemporary yet timeless scheme, but if you want to make sure you Kitchen cabinet design There are several steps you can take to prepare your Slim Shaker kitchen to look fresh and modern.
First, instead of the chunky knobs or cup handles that suit classic Shaker kitchens so well, consider more modern cabinet hardware, like sleek bar pulls.
The kitchen cabinet colors you choose will also have a huge impact on the finished look – trending choices include earthy neutrals, such as taupe, soft pinks and bold shades like burgundy.
Even if you already have a good idea of what you want your new kitchen to look like, it’s worth keeping an eye on the latest. Kitchen trends – Even if you only add a weave or two to your space, it can really help enhance the overall design. And, be sure to check out the advice in According to experts you should avoid kitchen colors. Updating your cabinets can be expensive if you come to regret the color you chose.
