Monday, September 25, 2023 / by Sonya Reiselt
Designing the Perfect Shaker Kitchen for Your Lowcountry Home
The enduring and adaptable Shaker style has remained a popular option for Lowcountry home owners when it comes to kitchen design. Shaker kitchens are known for their simple lines, timeless appearance, and practical design. Whether you are planning a kitchen renovation or building a new home, creating the ideal Shaker kitchen requires careful thought and attention to detail.
In this blog, we will provide seven essential suggestions to help you create your ideal Shaker kitchen. It is crucial to strike the ideal balance between traditional and modern styles when designing a Shaker kitchen. You can ensure that your kitchen is the excellent beating heart of your Beaufort house by using the seven tips below.
1. Embrace Simplicity
When designing a Shaker kitchen, it is important to prioritize simplicity over intricate patterns or ornate decorations. Instead, focus on simple shapes, practical design, and subtle elegance. This minimalist style ensures a timeless appearance and creates a tranquil and calming atmosphere in the kitchen.
2. Neutral Tones with Pops of Color
In Shaker kitchens, neutral colors are traditionally preferred. However, it is perfectly acceptable to incorporate splashes of color. For a bolder statement, consider using deep blues or greens on the island or cabinetry. To maintain a balanced look, opt for a subdued grey or soft beige as the base. This combination creates a lively and upscale atmosphere in the kitchen.
3. Invest in Quality Craftsmanship
Shaker kitchens are renowned for their impeccable craftsmanship. To achieve the desired aesthetic and durability, it is crucial to invest in top-notch materials and skilled craftsmen for the cabinetry, work surfaces, and handles. This meticulous attention to detail not only enhances the overall appearance of the kitchen but also ensures its longevity.
4. Opt for Functional Storage Solutions
Shaker architecture is known for its focus on functionality, which is evident in its storage options. Deep drawers, empty spaces for doors, pull-out larders, and built-in pantries are all incorporated to ensure that everything has its place. For example, research shows that a standard hinged or swing door requires an empty space of at least 5 ft in length and width in the opening direction. In the direction that the door opens to the outside, there must be an empty space measuring 4 ft in both length and width. These features not only help keep the kitchen clutter-free but also maximize the available space.
5. Incorporate Modern Amenities Thoughtfully
Although the point of Shaker style is to focus on traditional elements, you can still have that fancy stove and fridge. You can seamlessly include appliances such as refrigerators, dishwashers, and ovens. Choosing sleek designs will help enhance the look rather than competing with the Shaker style.
6. Pay Attention to Lighting
To enhance your Shaker kitchen, it is important to carefully select the right lighting. By incorporating ambient, task, and accent lighting, you can create a harmonious and inviting atmosphere. Under-cabinet lighting is ideal for improving workspace visibility, while pendant lights above an island or dining area can add a sophisticated touch.
7. Invest in Quality Countertops
Your choice of countertops can significantly influence the practicality and aesthetic appeal of your Shaker kitchen. Natural stone, like granite or marble, beautifully enhances the classic style of Shaker cabinets. Alternatively, consider the long-lasting and low-maintenance quartz countertops in various hues and patterns.
In conclusion, creating the ideal Shaker kitchen requires striking a careful balance between functionality, simplicity, and aesthetics. By emphasizing superior artistry, time-tested materials, and close attention to detail, embrace the timeless appeal of Shaker design. Your Shaker kitchen can become the center of your home, where style and usability seamlessly meld together with the right choices in colors, hardware, and lighting.
A Shaker kitchen is more than just a design choice; it is an investment in the heart of your home, where you will make memories and enjoy delicious meals with your family. These seven essential tips will help you design a stunning Shaker kitchen that fits your lifestyle.
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