Your Complete Guide to Shaker Style Cabinets

Shaker-style cabinets continue to be some of the most popular kitchen sets we sell at Custom Service Hardware. The clean, balanced design never goes out of fashion and works beautifully with trends like bold cabinet colors, two-tone kitchens, and statement hardware. We offer both pre-assembled shaker cabinets as well as ready-to-assemble (RTA) options.

What are Shaker Cabinets?

Shaker-style cabinets are known for their clean lines and functional design — a look that has remained a popular choice for over two centuries. The style originated in the 1700s with the Shaker religious community, who valued simplicity and practicality in their craftsmanship. That influence lives on today in this classic cabinet style, appreciated for its versatility and timeless appeal.

Common features of shaker style cabinets include:

• Clean, recessed center panel door with a square frame
• Minimal decorative detailing for a timeless look
• Durable construction using dovetail or seamless joinery
• Adaptability to both classic and modern kitchen designs
• Available in painted finishes or natural wood tones

Are Shaker Cabinets Outdated?

Shaker cabinets have been in style for 250 years and counting, so it's unlikely that choosing RTA shaker cabinets will mean your kitchen is outdated in 10-15 years — or ever.

Because of their modest design, shaker cabinets offer a timeless look that can be customized according to your individual taste. Shaker cabinets complement a wide range of interiors, from traditional and farmhouse kitchens to modern and minimalist spaces — making them a smart choice for nearly any project.

Popular Shaker Cabinet Color Choices

Thanks to their simple design, shaker cabinets are the perfect canvas for a wide range of finishes and color trends. Whether you want a bold, modern look or a soft, natural tone, there’s a shaker finish to suit your space.

• White shaker cabinets: Crisp, clean, and always in style. Ideal for bright, classic kitchens.
• Gray shaker cabinets: A go-to for both traditional and contemporary spaces.
• Black shaker cabinets: Sleek and dramatic, great for modern or high-contrast kitchens.
• Blue shaker cabinets: Popular for coastal, transitional, and colorful kitchen designs.
• Green shaker cabinets: A rising trend for earthy, organic, and nature-inspired interiors.
• Modern shaker cabinets: Often feature bold colors, matte finishes, or minimalist hardware.

What Hardware Works Best with Shaker Cabinets?

Pairing the right hardware with your shaker style cabinets is an easy way to define your kitchen’s overall look. Because of their understated design, shaker cabinets work well with a wide range of hardware types — from sleek modern pulls to vintage-inspired knobs.

Here are a few popular hardware pairings for different styles:

• Modern shaker cabinets: Choose long, linear pulls in matte black or brushed gold.
• Farmhouse or rustic designs: Opt for oil-rubbed bronze or distressed metal knobs.
• Minimalist looks: Try edge pulls or slim handles in stainless or brushed nickel.
• Two-tone kitchens: Use contrasting hardware finishes to highlight upper and lower cabinets.

Whether you're going for bold or subtle, there's a shaker set to match your vision. If you need help picking the right color for your home, please feel free to reach out to our Cabinet Specialists here at CSH! Click here to get connected with our Cabinet Specialists.

Are Shaker Cabinets Budget-Friendly?

Shaker style cabinets are a smart choice for homeowners who want great design without the hefty price tag. Their simple construction keeps manufacturing costs lower than more intricate styles, making them a popular option for quality-focused remodels without a large price tag. Whether you’re designing a new kitchen or upgrading an existing space, shaker cabinets make it easy to stay on budget without compromising style.

Assembled vs. RTA Shaker Cabinets

When it comes to kitchen remodels, choosing between RTA shaker cabinets and assembled ones often depends on your timeline and comfort level with installation.

• RTA (Ready-to-Assemble) shaker cabinets ship flat and are assembled by the customer, which makes them more budget-friendly and easier to ship. They’re ideal for DIYers and contractors looking to save on labor and shipping.
• Assembled shaker cabinets or pre-assembled shaker cabinets arrive ready to install. This can be a time-saving option if you prefer a faster setup or want to minimize effort.

No matter the format, our shaker assembled cabinets and RTA cabinets shaker styles offer the same high quality materials with durable plywood frames and smooth finishes.

Building Your Shaker Kitchen With Custom Service Hardware

Once you’ve chosen your cabinet style, upgrading your kitchen with shaker cabinets is easy. Our collections come with various base cabinets, wall cabinets, and specialty cabinets like pantries, tall kitchen cabinets, utility or storage cabinets, and cabinets specifically designed to fit into corners.

Many styles offer options like glass-ready doors, moldings, and rollout shelves to help you customize your layout. We also work exclusively with American suppliers, so your shaker kitchen ships from within the United States, getting to you much quicker than products from overseas suppliers or custom cabinetry.

Going Beyond the Kitchen: Where Else Can You Use Shaker Cabinets?

While shaker cabinets are most often associated with kitchens, their clean lines and minimalist style make them a great fit throughout the home. They’re a smart, cohesive choice for projects that need storage solutions outside the kitchen — all while keeping the look consistent.

Some of the most popular uses for shaker style cabinets beyond the kitchen include:

• Shaker bathroom cabinets: Their simple design complements both traditional and modern vanities.
• Laundry rooms: A clean, tidy storage solution for supplies and linens.
• Mudrooms and entryways: Combine function and style in small spaces.
• Home offices: Create a built-in look with plenty of concealed storage.

With colors like white, wood tone and gray shaker cabinets or even black shaker cabinets, you can match your storage across multiple rooms while keeping a unified design.

Need help getting started? We’re happy to walk you through design, layout, or installation tips, just drop us a message, and we'll walk you through the process. Whether you prefer pre-assembled shaker cabinets or plan to install RTA shaker cabinets yourself, Custom Service Hardware is here to help every step of the way.