Shaker-style kitchen spaces seamlessly blend classic aesthetics with a functional, uncluttered ethos, making them endlessly appealing to homeowners. However, as we evolve within our spaces, the desire to refresh or update our surroundings grows. This begs the question: How can you update a Shaker kitchen without stripping away its inherent charm and character?
Updating a Shaker kitchen involves a careful balance of incorporating new trends while respecting the simplicity and functionality that comes with the design aesthetic. Local kitchen remodeler DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen of Elizabethtown shares a few tips to pull this off successfully.
Modern Hardware
Consider starting with the hardware — the “jewelry” of kitchen cabinetry. Contemporary cabinets paired with traditional hardware can offer a subtle yet significant transformation. Think sleek, modern handles against the classic Shaker cabinetry, blending the old with the new in a harmonious way. This minor change can have a major impact, especially when you choose distinctive materials or designs that reflect the unique personality of your home.
Bold Colors
While Shaker kitchens traditionally lean towards neutral tones, introducing bold colors can revitalize the space without altering its foundational style. Painting Shaker cabinets in contemporary hues or even classic colors with a new twist can dramatically change the vibe of your kitchen. A bold color choice, such as a deep green or vibrant blue, adds depth and modern flair while maintaining the kitchen’s classic structure.
Glass Fronted and Open Shelving
Your kitchen contractor may recommend ditching traditional Shaker wall cabinets for glass-fronted options or open shelving. This approach lightens the overall look and feel of the kitchen, introducing a more open, airy dynamic. It’s a perfect compromise, respecting the Shaker principle of simplicity while adapting to more contemporary tastes.
Lean Into Mixed Materials
The classic Shaker kitchen benefits significantly from the infusion of mixed materials. Combining rustic wooden elements with sleek marble countertops or incorporating metallic finishes can add new layers of texture and interest. This strategy keeps the kitchen’s design grounded in tradition while smoothly transitioning it into a more modern aesthetic realm.
Incorporate Contemporary Elements
Lastly, thinking beyond the cabinets themselves to the broader elements of your kitchen space can offer avenues for updates. Modern fixtures, appliances, and lighting can sit comfortably within a Shaker-style kitchen, providing that much-desired refresh. These elements can be as subtle or as bold as you prefer, allowing for a tailored approach that respects the original design’s integrity.
Let’s Start a Conversation!
Updating a Shaker kitchen doesn’t require a radical overhaul. Small, thoughtful changes can have a significant impact, bringing your space squarely into the present while honoring its timeless appeal. As the trusted “kitchen contractor near me“, DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen of Elizabethtown understands the value of balancing tradition with innovation, ensuring your updated kitchen remains a cherished space for years to come.
Give us a call at (717) 452-4942, or fill out our contact form to schedule a consultation. We serve homeowners in Elizabethtown and the nearby communities of York, Wrightsville, Columbia, Mountville, Lititz, Manheim, Camp Hill, Mechanicsburg, Bainbridge, Lebanon, Palmyra, Middletown and Hummelstown.
