Are Shaker Cabinets Going Out of Style in 2025?

If you’re planning a kitchen remodel — or just dreaming about one — you’ve probably noticed how “Shaker cabinets” have dominated for years. Their clean lines, functionality, and versatile looks have made them a go-to in so many homes. But now that it’s 2025, you might be asking: Are Shaker cabinets still worth it? Or are they becoming “so last decade”?

As a designer who’s spent two decades helping real families pick cabinets — and as someone who also washes dishes, stores snacks, and corrals clutter in her own kitchen — I get the concerns: Will they look dated? Am I investing in something trendy? Or do they still deliver the best of both “classic + practical”? Let me walk you through what’s happening now, what I’m seeing with clients, and how you can make a style that lasts.

What Is a Shaker Cabinet — and Why Has It Been So Popular?

The Shaker style traces its roots to the Shaker religious community, known for simple, functional craftsmanship. Traditional Shaker cabinets feature a five-piece door (stiles and rails + recessed center panel), straightforward hardware, and a focus on usability over ornament.

Because of that simplicity, Shaker has lasted in American kitchens for decades: it’s not overly fussy, but it’s not cold minimalism either. It sits right in that sweet spot between traditional and modern. Designers and homeowners alike have loved it because it’s timeless, clean, and easy to pair with many other design elements.

What’s New in 2025 — Is Shaker Evolving, or Fading?

Here’s the good news: Shaker cabinets are not going out of style in 2025. In fact, many design‑trend reports show Shaker is evolving, not exiting. If you want to know why Shaker kitchen cabinets have stood the test of time, check out this detailed guide for more insights.

Here are some of the key trends and how Shaker is fitting into them:

1. Slimmer and More Modern Shaker Profiles

Designers are increasingly favoring “slim shaker” styles, with narrower stiles and rails. It gives you the classic look, but a lighter, more contemporary feel.

These slimmer profiles are especially trendy in frameless cabinet systems, giving a sleeker, more efficient layout.

2. Bolder Colors & Two‑Tone Combinations

Rather than plain white, 2025 is seeing rich, moody hues for Shaker doors: deep navy, forest green, warm charcoal.

Two-tone kitchens remain very much in vogue: pairing Shaker uppers and lowers in complementary or contrasting colors adds personality while staying practical. You can explore the top kitchen cabinet colors for 2025 to see which shades are trending this year.

For instance, Shaker uppers in off-white + lower cabinets in dusty green or warm gray are very much “in.”

3. Natural Wood Tones Making a Comeback

Painted Shaker is still common, but there’s a renewed love for stained wood — oak, walnut, ash — that shows natural grain and warmth. You can learn more about different cabinet materials and their benefits to find the perfect match for your kitchen.

These wood finishes connect with broader trends of nature-inspired, sustainable interiors.

4. Hardware Matters — It’s a Big Part of the Style

In 2025, hardware isn’t just functional: brushed brass, matte black, bronze – designers are using these to give Shaker cabinets a fresh twist.

Soft-close drawer slides and hinges are standard now, making even “classic” Shaker feel premium.

5. Still a Dominant Style

Shaker doors still make up about 61% of the cabinet market, with flat-panel at 22%.

Shaker’s versatility (it fits both traditional and modern kitchens) is a major reason people continue to choose it. To see how Shaker compares with other styles, check out our guide on Shaker vs. Slab kitchen cabinet doors.

Comparing Cabinet Styles: 2025 Snapshot

Here’s a quick comparison of popular cabinet styles in 2025, to help you see where Shaker stands:

Practical Advice for Homeowners: Should You Pick Shaker in 2025?

Given how Shaker is evolving (and not disappearing), here’s how you can decide if it’s the right choice for your kitchen — especially if you’re a busy homeowner who wants both style and function:

1. Think About Your Space and Use

If you want a kitchen that feels “current but not trendy,” a slim shaker in a neutral or warm tone is a smart bet.

For more dramatic flair, go for a two-tone Shaker setup: maybe navy lowers and off-white uppers, or wood tones + painted panels.

2. Play with Hardware

Even if you pick a classic Shaker door shape, updating hardware (brass, black, sculptural knobs) can modernize the look.

Soft-close hinges/slides not only feel high-end but will help your cabinets feel good for years.

3. Go Semi-Custom (or Mix Styles)

If budget allows: semi-custom Shaker options let you pick finishes (painted, stain) + frame thickness + drawer styles.

If you’re concerned about trends, you could use Shaker as your main cabinet style but mix in slab or glass-front for accent zones.

4. Budget Wisely

Investing in high-quality Shaker cabinets doesn’t mean overspending just for style — well-made doors + durable hardware will last.

Since Shaker is still so common, there are lots of price tiers (RTA, semi-custom, custom), so you can find something that fits your budget.

5. Maintenance & Longevity

Painted Shaker doors are easy to wipe clean; stained wood Shaker can age gracefully.

Do routine care: gentle cleaner for painted surfaces; occasional polish / conditioner for real wood.

My Experience & What I’ve Seen in Real Homes

As both a kitchen designer and someone who’s done her fair share of meal prep, here’s what I’ve observed:

• A family I worked with last year chose a slim Shaker in sage green for their lower cabinets and off-white Shaker on top. It brought warmth, personality, and a timeless quality.
• Another client was tempted by ultra-modern slab doors, but we ended up mixing: slab on the island, Shaker on the wall. The contrast balanced out beautifully — and they weren’t locked into a single style.
• In my own kitchen (yes, I have one!), I opted for wood-stained shaker because I cook a lot, I want something that ages well, and I don’t want to repaint every few years. It’s been 7 years, and I still love it.

Final Thoughts & What You Should Do Next

Bottom line: No, Shaker cabinets are not going out of style in 2025 — they’re adapting. With slimmer profiles, richer colors, and modern hardware, Shaker remains extremely relevant and likely to stay so.

Here’s what to do next:

1. Measure your kitchen and decide how “adventurous” you want to be with color.
2. Talk to a cabinet designer or builder about slim Shaker profiles, two-tone options, and finish choices.
3. Pick a sample: get a door sample in your selected finish + style. Live with it for a few days (look under different light).
4. Factor in hardware: the right knobs and pulls can make a huge stylistic difference.
5. Plan for long-term: choose quality that fits your budget so your cabinets can grow with your family — not feel dated or worn in a few years.