Renovating the kitchen is a great way to give any home a facelift. The reasons for a remodel may vary. Almost half (45%) of homeowners say they’ve wanted to do it all along and finally had the means, while more than a third (35%) say they could no longer stand their old kitchen.
Though the reasons vary, all kitchen remodels have one thing in common: upgrading the kitchen cabinets. Cabinets can make or break the appeal of a new kitchen. You’ve got to choose the right cabinet style.
At Holland’s Custom Cabinets, we’re often asked by clients, “Considering, shaker cabinets vs. raised panel cabinets, which one is best?” These are two of the most popular kitchen cabinet door styles. Each comes with unique pros and cons. So, which should you choose?
Let’s dig deeper into the shaker cabinets vs. raised panel cabinets debate.
What Are Shaker-Style Cabinet Doors?
Shaker-style cabinets are simple yet elegant. They feature a flat center panel with a surrounding square frame. They feature a minimalist design without decorative carving or raising in the panel or the edges.
What Are the Pros of Shaker Style Cabinets?
- Timeless Design: Shaker-style cabinets never go out of style. The simple and sophisticated design strikes a perfect balance of style and functionality.
- Versatility: Their minimalist design features a flat center panel, square edges, and limited profiling. The clean lines and unassuming recessed frame allow shaker cabinets to adapt to any kitchen style, from modern and sleek to cozy and traditional.
- Low Maintenance: Shaker-style kitchen cabinets need little maintenance. Their flat panel design makes them easy to clean. All you need is a quick wipe-down so the cabinets look clean and new.
- Customization: White is arguably the most popular color for kitchen cabinets, including shaker-style cabinets. According to Statista, more than a third of homeowners (41%) choose white, while only (12%) go with a medium tone wood color. However, with Holland’s Custom Cabinets, you can select a custom color or finish that fits your unique kitchen style.
- Durability: Shaker-style cabinets are designed to withstand daily use. They are also a practical and long-lasting choice for any kitchen.
- Personalization: Minimalist design is the backbone of shaker-style cabinets. However, you can add personal touches with glass inserts, decorative edges, or unique hardware. Custom kitchen cabinets, like those crafted by Holland’s, can truly reflect your style.
- Broader Appeal: Shaker-style cabinets are popular, which makes them a safe and attractive investment. Given their broad appeal, shaker cabinets may fetch better resale value.
- Low Cost: While shaker-style cabinets are more wallet-friendly, owing to their minimalist design, they don’t sacrifice style or durability. They are an excellent choice for remodeling a kitchen on a budget.
What Are the Cons of Shaker Style Cabinets?
- Compatibility: Despite being versatile, shaker-style cabinets may not always be the right choice for a kitchen remodel. They might look too plain in ultra-modern kitchens or out of place in overly traditional kitchens.
- Not High-End: Shaker kitchen cabinets may lack what many homeowners consider a “wow factor.” They may not stand out as effectively as other kitchen cabinets.
- Potential Damage: Shaker-style cabinets are not immune to wear and tear. The simple design can sometimes be prone to damage.
- Cleaning Challenges: Generally, shaker-style cabinets are easy to clean. However, the crevices of the cabinet doors can be a haven for dirt.
- Personal Preference: Some people may find shaker kitchen cabinets too plain, but you can always customize them to fit your kitchen design.
What Are Raised Panel Cabinets?
Raised panel kitchen cabinets feature a raised panel surrounded by a contoured frame. Typically, the raised panel is made of solid wood or veneer. Considered a “traditional” style, raised panel cabinets provide more depth and distinct character compared to many other styles. Their popularity mushroomed during the 1920s. Since then, raised panel kitchen cabinets have been one of the most popular options.
What Are the Pros of Raised Panel Cabinets?
- Classic Appeal: No other design can beat the class appeal of raised panel kitchen cabinets. The entire door looks as if it was carved out of a single wooden plank. This design lends raised panel cabinets a subtle yet eye-catching appeal.
- Durability: Raised panel kitchen cabinets are durable. They can handle daily wear and tear.
- Variety of Options: Raised panel kitchen cabinets come in different styles, colors, materials, designs, and finishes. At Holland’s Custom Cabinets, we offer nearly endless designs and finishes. With so many options, you can easily find a door style that best suits your kitchen remodel.
- Hides Minor Imperfections: Unlike shaker cabinets, raised panel doors can conceal minor imperfections. The intricate design may also hide small dings or scratches, keeping the cabinets looking great even with a few clumsy hands in the kitchen.
What Are the Cons of Raised Panel Cabinets?
- Higher Cost: Raised panel kitchen cabinets are costlier than shaker cabinets. Typically, the more intricate the design, the higher the cost. They may not be a great choice if you are remodeling your kitchen on a budget.
- Maintenance: These cabinets come with more crevices than shaker cabinets. Keeping every nook and cranny dust-free might be more challenging.
- Outdated Look: Raised panel cabinet door styles became popular in the 1920s, so they tend to give off an old-fashioned vibe. Think about whether such a look will blend well with the rest of your kitchen.
- Limited Design Flexibility: With their traditional look, raised panel kitchen cabinets are not a great addition for casual, laid-back settings. However, they are a terrific choice if you have a traditional kitchen.
Shaker Cabinets Vs. Raised Panel Cabinets: Key Differences
If you know the key differences, you can easily compare shaker cabinets vs. raised panel cabinets. Let’s see what sets them apart.
- Construction: Both Shaker and raised panel cabinets come in framed or frameless construction styles. However, shaker kitchen cabinets pair well with frameless designs, thanks to their more contemporary look. On the other hand, framed designs are better for raised panel doors, which offer a more traditional look.
- Installation: “Shaker” and “raised panel” refer to the door styles, not the cabinets as a whole. Essentially, the installation process will be identical if both cabinet doors are frameless or framed.
- Cost Comparison: Frameless kitchen cabinets are often more expensive to install than framed cabinets. Depending on your location, the materials, and the size of your kitchen, you can expect a 10 to 20% difference in the overall cost. Cost will also depend on the door design. With their simple style, shaker kitchen cabinets tend to be more budget-friendly. They offer great style and functionality without breaking the bank. Raised-panel cabinets tend to be more expensive.
- Maintenance: With their flat design, shaker cabinets are easier to maintain. However, raised panel kitchen cabinets may need more frequent cleaning.
- Resale Value: Both styles can add value to a home. Yet, the broad appeal of shaker cabinets might give them an edge over raised panel cabinets.
- Design Characteristics: Shaker cabinets boast a minimalist look, while raised panel cabinets feature more detailing.
- Material: Both door styles come in different materials, including wood, veneers, and engineered wood.
- Color and Finish Options: Both door styles offer a wide array of colors and finishes.
- Popularity: Shaker cabinets are versatile. They can fit well in many kitchens, whether modern or traditional. On the other hand, raised panel kitchen cabinets are better suited for kitchens with a classic or upscale ambiance.
How to Choose the Right Style for Your Kitchen?
Choosing between shaker cabinets and raised panel cabinets is an endless debate. Here are a few simple tips to help you make a more informed decision:
- Consider Your Kitchen’s Overall Look: Is it modern or traditional? Shaker kitchen cabinets can blend in modern, minimalist, and even rustic kitchen interiors. Raised panel cabinets are not so versatile. They are best for classic or formal kitchen remodels.
- Think about Your Budget: Shaker cabinets are generally more budget-friendly. You can add a sophisticated look to your kitchen without a high price tag. Raised panel cabinets tend to be more costly due to their intricate detailing.
- Compare the Key Differences: Shaker and raised-panel cabinets have unique styles and appeal. Compare the key differences, such as color, finish, design, and detailing, to see which option best suits your personal taste.
What’s the Right Kitchen Cabinet Style for You?
There is no easy way to settle the shaker cabinets vs. raised panel cabinets debate. While some homeowners find shaker cabinets too simple, others may find them exceptionally versatile and tasteful. Similarly, raised panel cabinets have their own unique features and drawbacks. The choice comes down to what resonates with your style, needs, and budget.
Think it through, knowing that Holland Custom Cabinets is here to help you make your choice. From ideation to building your cabinets and installing them, we can help every step of the way. Call us at 619.443.6081, view our creative living gallery, or connect with us online to get started.
