White Shaker: Team Pro or Con?
- Elmwood Design Centre
- Oct 4, 2024
- 4 min read
The great mystery of the white shaker cabinet. Are they really timeless? Are they on trend? Should it be your top pick when renovating? Let's debunk the myth of the highly popular white shaker and whether or not it should be a contender for your next kitchen renovation (you might be surprised by this one).
You see them everywhere. Open Instagram, scroll through any home design account, and you'll spot them—clean, white, and practically begging you to be just like everyone else. Yes, they have their perks, but should they really be the focal point of your home? White shaker cabinets can look nice, but they’re far from the most exciting choice. In fact, our team of designers often steer clients toward options that stand out a bit more. But if your heart is set on them, don't worry—there are ways to add some personality.
Let’s take a closer look at what makes white shaker cabinets so popular, and why you might want to consider something a little different. And hey, if you’re absolutely in love with them, we've got a few tricks to help you make them a little less predictable.
The Pros: Why White Shaker Cabinets Are a Go-To Choice
1. Clean and Simple
Say what you want about white shaker cabinets, but they do give off a clean and simple look. The streamlined feel of the recessed panel is classic, and the white finish brightens up a kitchen like a fresh coat of paint. If you want a kitchen that looks polished but isn’t trying too hard, this style works (emphasis on isn't trying too hard).
2. Versatile
They’re the jeans and t-shirt of kitchen design: they go with everything. Whether your countertops are marble, granite, or butcher block, white shaker cabinets will fit right in. They’ll never clash, but that also means they rarely stand out. If you want a kitchen that can evolve with trends, this neutrality might work for you.
3. Resale Appeal
If you’re flipping houses or planning to sell soon, white shaker cabinets might feel like a no-brainer. They appeal to a wide audience because they’re safe—no one’s going to walk into a kitchen with white shakers and run for the door. But do you want your kitchen to feel safe, or do you want it to feel you?
The Cons: Why White Shaker Cabinets Might Not Be for You
1. Overplayed and Boring
If you haven't noticed already, white shaker is everywhere. In the magazines, scrolling through Instagram and in your next door neighbours house. You probably can count on one hand how many times you've walked into a kitchen that differed. They’ve become the default choice for anyone who doesn’t want to think too hard about their kitchen design, and that's part of the problem. The kitchen is the heart of the home and should reflect YOUR personal style and make a statement. White shakers aren't going to be the statement choice.
2. Fingerprint City
Sure, they look crisp and clean when they’re freshly wiped down, but anyone who’s ever lived with white cabinets knows the struggle. Every smudge, fingerprint, and grease mark is going to show up like a flashing light. If you’re someone who likes a pristine kitchen but doesn’t want to spend half your life cleaning, white shaker cabinets may drive you a little crazy.
3. Playing It Safe
There’s nothing inherently wrong with playing it safe, but where’s the fun in that? Your kitchen should reflect your personality and style, not just check off a box for resale value. If you’re looking for a bold, unique space, white shakers can feel like a missed opportunity to do something more creative.
Alternatives: Stand Out Without Going Overboard
Now that you've been enlightened and understand that white shaker cabinets are a bit too "been there, done that", don’t worry—there are plenty of ways to make your kitchen look fresh and unique without going too far out of your comfort zone.
Muted Colors: A soft grey or a pale green can add warmth and depth to your kitchen without overwhelming the space. These shades still offer that clean, bright look but with more character. It’s like upgrading from a plain white t-shirt to a chic sweater.
Two-Tone Cabinets: If you’re not quite ready to say goodbye to white, mix it up by pairing white upper cabinets with darker lower cabinets. Navy blue, charcoal, or even a deep green can create contrast and add visual interest, making your kitchen feel more custom.
Natural Wood Tones: Shaker cabinets in a natural wood finish give you that timeless look but with added texture and warmth. They still pair well with most countertops and backsplashes but feel more organic and less sterile than your typical white.
If White Shaker is Still a 'Must' For You… Spice It Up!
We get it—sometimes you get an idea that just sticks and you can't say yes to any other option. And while white shaker might not be our first choice, we won’t judge. In fact, there are some creative ways to make them feel a little less cookie-cutter:
Bold Hardware
Swap out your typical standard brushed nickel for something more eye-catching. Matte black, brass, or even leather pulls can take your white shaker cabinets from basic to bold.
Interesting Backsplashes
Pairing white cabinets with a colorful or patterned backsplash can add a ton of personality. Whether it’s a classic subway tile in a unique colour or a fun mosaic, the backsplash is a great place to inject some creativity.
Statement Countertops
Consider pairing your white shakers with a statement countertop—something like a bold marble or quartz with dramatic veining. The contrast can elevate the entire look and give your kitchen a more designer feel.
Timeless or Trendy? The Final Verdict
While white shaker cabinets have their place, they’re not (and shouldn't be) for everyone. Yes, they’re versatile, practical, and safe, but if you’re looking to create a kitchen that feels uniquely yours, we suggest exploring other options. However, if you’ve been forever sold on the white shaker look, there are ways to make them feel less “default” and more custom to your style. In the end, your kitchen should be a reflection of you, and that’s what really matters.
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