Introduction
When designing a kitchen, choosing the right style and materials is key to creating a space that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The style sets the overall tone and layout, while the materials bring that style to life. One very impactful material choice is the type of wood used for cabinetry, countertops, floors, etc.
Wood can add warmth and timelessness to any kitchen. However, not all woods work well with all kitchen layouts and designs. The style needs to align with the characteristics of the wood. In this article, we will look at how one popular kitchen style pairs beautifully with five specific wood types.
Shaker Style Kitchens
Shaker style kitchens are known for their clean, simple lines and functional design. This style originated with the Shaker religious community in 18th century England. Their philosophy of simplicity and utility is reflected in the straightforward approach of Shaker kitchens.
Key characteristics include:
- Flat panel doors with a recessed center panel
- Minimal ornamentation
- Straightforward lines and geometry
- Practical storage solutions like drawers and open shelving
- Light, neutral colors
This unfussy aesthetic allows the beauty of natural wood grains to shine through. The following five wood types in particular complement and enhance shaker style kitchens.
1. Maple
Maple is a classic choice that fits seamlessly with the Shaker style. This hardwood has a fine, uniform grain that gives it a smooth, consistent look. The pale cream coloring provides a light, airy feel.
Maple is also durable and withstands daily wear and tear. Use it for cabinet doors, drawers, countertops, open shelving, and butcher block islands. The muted grain provides an unfussy canvas that lets the kitchen’s practical features take center stage.
2. Cherry
For a warmth that works with Shaker simplicity, consider cherry wood. This material has a mild reddish-brown hue that feels relaxed and inviting. The smooth, fine grain limits knots and swirling patterns.
Use cherry wood for cabinet boxes and doors. Alternate it with a contrasting wood like maple for a subtle interplay of light and dark tones. The shade of cherry wood also pairs well with whites, grays, and stainless steel.
3. Walnut
Walnut may seem like a surprising choice for the understated Shaker style. But its rich brown color and subtle grain patterns add appealing texture. Use it sparingly as an accent wood with more neutral cabinet boxes.
Good applications include an island countertop, open shelving, or door and drawer fronts on select cabinets. This creates lovely contrast against a backdrop of maple cabinets. The elegance of walnut offsets the simplicity of the Shaker layout.
4. Poplar
Poplar is an affordable utility wood that suits Shaker design. It has a neutral beige tone that fades into the background. The wood grain tends to be fairly plain as well.
This is an excellent choice for Shaker cabinet boxes. Use a contrasting wood like maple or cherry for door fronts to add visual interest. Poplar provides an inconspicuous foundation that highlights the clean lines of Shaker cabinets.
5. Hickory
For more ornate Shaker kitchens, consider using hickory wood accents. Hickory has a bold, rustic wood grain with alternating bands of light and dark. This dynamic pattern contrasts nicely with more subdued woods like maple or poplar.
Use hickory for an accent island or open shelving. Its captivating grain pattern commands attention. A little hickory wood goes a long way in a Shaker kitchen. It provides character without overpowering the overall minimalist structure.
Designing Your Shaker Kitchen with Wood
When designing a Shaker-inspired kitchen, take full advantage of the beauty and practicality of wood. Use a combination of wood types to strike the perfect balance.
- Maple or poplar for clean, fuss-free cabinet boxes
- Cherry or walnut for warmth as accents
- Hickory for rustic flair in small doses
- Butcher block for handy island tops
- Open shelving to highlight special dishes
Incorporate woodwork details like exposed beams or a carved mantel to echo Shaker craftsmanship. Simple molding and trim should complement the linear quality of the cabinets.
Maintain a light, airy ambiance with plenty of windows and neutral paint colors. White, off-white, or beige walls keep the space feeling open. Natural finishes on woodwork enhance the simplicity.
By thoughtfully combining wood types, you can achieve a Shaker kitchen that is functional, durable, and visually appealing. The natural variations of the wood grains add depth and texture without detracting from the straightforward Shaker style.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the key features of a Shaker kitchen?
Shaker kitchens have a simple, unfussy aesthetic with flat recessed cabinet doors, minimal ornamentation, neutral colors, and functional storage solutions. The straightforward design highlights the wood’s natural beauty.
What types of wood work best in a Shaker kitchen?
Maple, cherry, walnut, poplar, and hickory all complement Shaker style. Maple provides a light, smooth look. Cherry adds warmth. Walnut creates rich contrast. Poplar is an affordable neutral. Hickory gives rustic flair.
Where should I use accent woods in my Shaker kitchen?
Use rich woods like cherry, walnut or hickory selectively for accents like an island, open shelving unit, or door/drawer fronts. Keep most cabinet boxes a subtle wood like maple or poplar.
What colors work well in a Shaker kitchen?
Stick with light neutrals like white, off-white, beige, or gray for walls and larger surfaces. Natural wood finishes also suit the simple style. Avoid bold paint colors that may compete with the wood tones.
What kind of woodwork details should I include?
Subtle trim molding, exposed beams, a carved mantel, and windows create character. Avoid elaborate crown molding and ornate carvings that feel too formal. Maintain the simplified Shaker concept.
Conclusion
The Shaker kitchen style highlights the down-to-earth functionality of wood. Complementary types like maple, cherry, walnut, poplar, and hickory add organic warmth, texture, and visual interest. Keep the overall look light and neutral to let the wood grains take center stage. Thoughtfully designed and built, a Shaker kitchen made with natural wood can provide enduring everyday enjoyment.
