Slab and Shaker cabinets are two popular types of kitchen cabinets. While they have some similarities, there are also some distinct differences between the two styles.
So, there have been some discussions among homeowners about whether it’s OK to mix them in the same kitchen.
It is OK to mix slab and Shaker cabinets. Many homeowners do this to create a more unique and personalized look for their space. However, there are a few things to consider when mixing these two cabinet styles.
In the rest of this article, we will talk about how to mix slab and Shaker cabinets and things to consider beforehand. I will also outline potential issues if you mix these two cabinet styles.
So if you’re planning a kitchen remodel or looking for design ideas, keep reading.
Contents
How to Mix Slab and Shaker Cabinets
You can combine slab and Shaker cabinets in your kitchen in various ways. Here are some common techniques to do so:
- Use slab cabinets for your lower cabinets and Shaker cabinets for your upper cabinets. This will create a unique look for your kitchen through the contrast of the two designs.
- Use Shaker cabinets for your lower cabinets and slab cabinets for your upper cabinets. Similar to the previous option, both styles create a contrasting and exciting look for your kitchen.
- Use slab cabinets for your kitchen island and Shaker cabinets for the rest of your kitchen. This creates a more cohesive aesthetic and adds storage space to your kitchen.
- Use slab cabinets for your lower cabinets and Shaker cabinets for your kitchen island. In addition to creating a more refined design aesthetic, it’s also a great way to add extra storage to your kitchen.
What to Consider Before Mixing Slab and Shaker Cabinets
Before you mix slab and Shaker cabinets in your kitchen, there are a few things to consider.
Overall Style of Your Kitchen
What is the overall theme or look you’re trying to achieve? If you’re going for a more traditional kitchen, then using slab cabinets for your lower cabinets and Shaker-style doors for your upper cabinets may be the best option.
You may want to consider the Onestock Oak Kitchen Cabinet Door at Amazon. It’s made of high-quality red oak wood and unfinished, so you can paint or stain it to match the colors of your kitchen.
If you desire a more modern kitchen, you can use slab cabinets for your kitchen island and Shaker cabinets for the rest of your kitchen.
Size of Your Kitchen
How big is your kitchen? If you have a small kitchen, using all slab cabinets may be the best option. It will make your area appear larger and more open.
If you have a large kitchen, you have more flexibility in mixing and matching various styles of furnishings.
Budget
How much can you spend on cabinets? If you have a limited budget, you may want to stick with a single, less expensive cabinet style.
With a larger budget, you can mix and match cabinet styles to create a unique aesthetic. For example, slab lower cabinets and Shaker-style upper cabinets are the best option.
Maintenance
How often do you want to clean and maintain your cabinets? If you’re looking for low-maintenance cabinets, slab cabinets may be the best option.
Slab cabinets are easy to clean and require less care compared to Shaker cabinets. But if you believe you can regularly clean your cabinets, then Shaker cabinets may be the right choice.
Personal Preferences
Ultimately, the decision to mix slab and Shaker cabinets depends on personal preferences. If you like the way both styles look, then go for it!
Mixing and matching different styles of furnishings can make your kitchen visually more interesting.
If you can’t decide between the two styles, choose the one you like the most and stick with it.
Potential Issues When Mixing Slab and Shaker Cabinets
If you’re considering a kitchen with slab and Shaker cabinets, here are some potential issues to consider:
- Inconsistency: One of the potential issues with mixing slab and Shaker cabinets is that it can create an inconsistent look in your kitchen. Since slab and Shaker cabinets are two different styles, they may not always perfectly match. This can create a patchwork look in your kitchen that some people may not like.
- Difficulties in color coordination: Color coordination is another issue. This is because slab cabinets are typically solid-colored, while Shaker cabinets can have a variety of different colors and finishes. It’s challenging to find colors that complement both types.
- Limited options: When you mix slab and Shaker cabinets, you may limit your design options. For example, it may be more challenging to work with slab cabinets if you want to add trims or other decorative details. Or if you want to change the look of your kitchen later on, it may be difficult to find matching replacement slabs or Shaker cabinets.
- Compromised stability: Another possible issue with mixing slab and Shaker cabinets is that the doors may not be as stable as they would be if they were all in one style. The weight of the slab doors can cause the Shaker doors to warp or distort over time.
- Cost: One of the main reasons people opt for slab or Shaker cabinets is cost-efficiency. Although it’s possible to find both styles at various price points, slab cabinets are generally more expensive than Shaker cabinets. This can become costly if you want to mix the two types in your kitchen.
Conclusion
Slab and Shaker cabinets can be mixed to give your kitchen a unique look. However, there are some potential issues you may encounter when choosing to mix slab and Shaker cabinets. Just follow my tips and tricks for mixing slab and Shaker cabinets, and you should be able to avoid these problems.