Every American home shares one thing in common, and that is shaker cabinets. They are a timeless choice that elevates the look of any house, and it is also preferred by people a lot. Not to mention, the global kitchen cabinet market is said to reach $107.86 billion in 2025.
They have been around since the 18th century and are still available in the market, and people are still getting them. They are considered to be one of the most stylish choices in the United States. But why?
In this article, I’ll mention everything related to shaker cabinets and their timeless design for American homes. Let’s get started.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
- Shaker cabinets are a famous choice for homeowners as they fit in the interior designs of almost any style.
- These cabinets can be built from a variety of materials depending on the budget, use, and other requirements.
- These kinds of storage units are easy to maintain.
- They can last an average of 20-30 years, depending on the material used
What Is the Origin of Shaker Cabinets?
Shaker cabinets come from the Shaker religious community in New England. The Shakers valued simplicity, utility, and precision. These values were reflected in their furniture designs in flat panels, heavy construction, and practical hardware.
- Century of origin: 18th century
- Region: Northeastern United States
- Core values: Function, durability, easiness
It has managed to live for centuries, since it does not use ornate details that render the other types of cabinets outmoded soon.
Why Are Shaker Cabinets Still Relevant Today?
Shaker cabinets are versatile, making them a perfect fit for almost any interior design style. They are preferred by homeowners because of their mix of conservativeness and innovation. They can fit into:
- Kitchens made of farmhouse natural woods.
- Kitchens that are transitional between modern and traditional.
- Contemporary kitchens are painted in bright or neutral colors.
- Minimalist, Scandinavian kitchens.
The 2025 Kitchen Trends Study by Houzz shows that more than 61% of homeowners in the US would prefer Shaker-style doors when remodelling their kitchen. Below, you can see the most common types of cabinets.
What Materials Are Used for Shaker Cabinets?
Shaker cabinets can be crafted from a variety of materials, chosen based on your budget, desired finish, and durability needs.
| Material | Characteristics | Price Range | Common Use |
| Maple | Smooth grain, strong, durable | Medium-High | Painted cabinets |
| Oak | Pronounced grain, very durable | Medium | Stained cabinets |
| Cherry | Rich red tones, elegant | High | Premium custom-builds |
| Birch | Affordable, fine-grain | Low-Medium | Stock cabinets |
| MDF | Engineered, smooth | Low | Painted RTA cabinets |
| Plywood | Stable, lightweight | Medium | Cabinet boxes |
Hardwoods such as maple and oak define custom cabinetry, while MDF is common in budget-friendly shaker cabinets.
What Finishes Are Popular for Shaker Cabinets in the US?
Finishes determine the mood of a kitchen. Shaker cabinets look different depending on the paint or stain.
- White paint: Bright, clean, timeless look.
- Gray paint: Neutral and modern.
- Navy blue paint: Bold, contemporary option.
- Natural wood stain: Rustic, farmhouse feel.
- Two-tone combinations: White uppers and darker lowers for contrast.
In Zillow listings, white shaker cabinets are among the most desired features for homebuyers, signaling a modern and updated look.
How Do Shaker Cabinets Compare to Other Cabinet Styles?
Shaker cabinets differ from raised panel and slab cabinet doors in both design and function.
| Feature | Shaker Cabinets | Raised Panel Cabinets | Slab Cabinets |
| Door Style | Recessed panel | Raised center panel | Flat, no panel |
| Best For | Transitional, farmhouse, modern | Traditional kitchens | Contemporary kitchens |
| Cost | Medium | High | Low-Medium |
| Maintenance | Easy to clean | Harder due to grooves | Very easy |
The key advantage of shaker cabinets is their timeless design and versatility, unlike cabinets tied to a specific style.
Are Shaker Cabinets Easy to Maintain?
Yes, shaker cabinets are simple to serve. Their sunken panels contain fewer grooves than fancy designs, and they are easier to clean.
Maintenance tips:
- Wipe with a damp cloth weekly.
- Use mild dish soap for stains.
- Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive sponges.
- Repaint chipped edges to preserve finishes.
They are durable and easy to maintain, and hence suitable in busy kitchens.
Do Shaker Cabinets Increase Home Value?
Yeah, shaker cabinets add value to homes. Homes with shaker-style kitchens tend to sell faster in real estate listings, as buyers view them as both modern and versatile.
- Zillow data: White shaker kitchens get more buyer attention.
- Resale: ROI of a kitchen remodel is between 57 and 80 percent based on material and personalisation.
This renders them a secure investment in remodeling.
Where Can You Buy Shaker Cabinets in the US?
- Shaker cabinets are very common in various channels.
- Large box stores: Home Depot, Lowe’s (stock and semi-custom).
- Online suppliers of RTA: Cabinets-to-Go, RTA Cabinet Store, ShakerCabinets.com.
- Furniture sellers: IKEA has cheap MDF.
- Local carpenters and cabinetmakers: Local hardwoods premium shop.
Another favorite type of shaker cabinet among remodeler DIYers is the ready-to-assemble (RTA) cabinets, as they are less expensive and ship fast.
How Much Do Shaker Cabinets Cost?
Costs vary by material, finish, and customization level.
| Cabinet Type | Price Per Linear Foot | Typical Use |
| Stock | $60–$200 | Budget remodels |
| Semi-custom | $150–$450 | Mid-range remodels |
| Custom | $500+ | Luxury kitchens |
An example of a 10×10 kitchen with shaker cabinets ranges between 2500 and, 24000 dollars on average, depending on the quality and producer.
What Hardware Matches Best with Shaker Cabinets?
Shaker cabinets adapt to many furniture finishes.
- Brushed nickel pulls → modern elegance.
- Matte black knobs → industrial style.
- Polished chrome handles → transitional look.
- Antique brass hardware → farmhouse warmth.
- Hidden edge pulls → minimalist aesthetic.
The selection of hardware greatly determines the feel of the shaker cabinets, be it customary or modern.
How Long Do Shaker Cabinets Last?
While investing, this question might come to your attention, and the answer is:
- Poorly maintained shaker cabinets have a life of 20–30 years when made of solid wood.
- Hardwood shaker cabinets: longest life.
- MDF shaker cabinets: 1015 years average.
- The hinges and soft-close drawers are upgraded to create a longer service life.
With their durability, they are competitive in terms of choosing cabinetry over time.
What Are the Pros and Cons of Shaker Cabinets?
Obviously, if there are some pros, there are going to be some cons as well. You can see them below:
Pros:
- Versatile design
- Easy to clean
- Affordable compared to ornate cabinetry
- Popular with US buyers
Cons:
- Painted edges may chip
- Limited decorative detail
- Dark colors show fingerprints
These advantages and disadvantages can guide homeowners to consider the suitability of shaker cabinets in their lives.
What Color Trends Are Emerging for Shaker Cabinets?
The US color trends emphasize strong contrasting and natural finishes.
- Contemporary kitchens have matte black cabinet shakers.
- Sage green cabinets in farmhouse and cottage-type kitchens.
- Cabinets are navy blue shaker with brass hardware.
- Scandinavian-style kitchen finishes in light oak.
Paint manufacturers such as Sherwin-Williams and Benjamin Moore report a rising demand for earthy neutral tones in shaker cabinetry.
How Are Shaker Cabinets Installed?
Installation depends on whether the cabinets are stock, RTA, or custom.
Steps for RTA installation:
- Assemble cabinet boxes.
- Level base cabinets and secure them to the wall studs.
- Install wall cabinets above.
- Attach doors and hardware.
- Adjust hinges for alignment.
Professional installation ensures precision, but DIY is possible with RTA kits.
Can Shaker Cabinets Work in Bathrooms?
Yes, the shaker cabinets can be fitted in bathroom vanities. With their clean lines and water-resistant finishes, shaker cabinets work well in both compact powder rooms and spacious master bathrooms. White shaker vanities are particularly trendy for creating a spa-like atmosphere.
Are Shaker Cabinets Sustainable?
Shaker cabinets can be environmentally friendly when crafted from sustainably sourced wood. Eco-friendly options are available from manufacturers of FSC-certified hardwood, low-VOC paints, and recyclable MDF. Use of long-lasting cabinetry also minimizes the wastage in replacement.
