Is It Time to Move Beyond the Classic Shaker Door?
- Kate Fryer
- Jul 27
- 3 min read
Updated: 6 days ago
For many years, the humble shaker door has been the go-to choice for kitchens, utility rooms and fitted furniture. It's easy to see why. Its clean lines, timeless proportions and versatility mean it suits everything from country cottages to contemporary homes.
But lately, I've noticed something changing.
Clients are becoming more adventurous.
They're looking beyond the traditional shaker door in search of bespoke joinery that feels more individual, more reflective of their personality and, perhaps most importantly, more in keeping with the architecture of their home.
At Khaya Studio, we're seeing an exciting shift towards beautifully detailed cabinetry that still feels timeless but introduces more texture, craftsmanship and character.
The Shaker Door Isn't Going Anywhere
Before we go any further, let me say this…
I still love a shaker door.
When designed well, with the right proportions and quality materials, it remains one of the most enduring cabinet styles available.
The key is recognising that it isn't the only option.
Just as every home deserves its own design response, every piece of fitted furniture should complement the architecture around it.
A Victorian townhouse doesn't necessarily require the same cabinetry as a Somerset farmhouse, nor should a contemporary new-build replicate traditional joinery simply because it's fashionable.
A New Era of Bespoke Joinery
One of the things I enjoy most about designing bespoke furniture is exploring how small details can completely transform a room.
Rather than relying solely on panelled doors, we're now seeing beautiful alternatives emerge.
Rich Timber Veneers
Natural timber is making a huge comeback. One material I'm particularly excited about is burl veneer, prized for its wonderfully expressive grain and luxurious appearance.
In one of my current projects, we're designing an entire wall of bespoke cabinetry clad in continuous burl veneer, allowing the grain to flow seamlessly across the full length of the room. Rather than each cabinet feeling separate, the joinery becomes one sculptural feature that celebrates the beauty of natural timber.
It's a wonderful example of how bespoke furniture can become an architectural statement in its own right.
Fluted & Reeded Details
Fluted cabinet fronts continue to grow in popularity, adding softness and texture without overwhelming a space.
The vertical rhythm catches the light beautifully throughout the day and works equally well in contemporary and period homes when used thoughtfully.
Seamless Minimalism
For more contemporary interiors, hidden finger pulls, integrated handles and uninterrupted surfaces create a calm, refined appearance.
The emphasis shifts from decorative hardware to the quality of the materials themselves.
Curves & Soft Edges
We're also seeing a move away from sharp, angular furniture.
Gentle curves, rounded corners and softened profiles create cabinetry that feels welcoming, tactile and beautifully crafted.
Designing Joinery That Belongs
At Khaya Studio, we never begin with a catalogue. We begin with the house.
One of the principles that underpins every project is responding to the existing architecture.
The fitted furniture should feel as though it was designed specifically for that property—not chosen because it's currently trending.
For example:
A Georgian townhouse may call for elegant painted cabinetry with refined mouldings.
A Victorian home may suit richer colours and more decorative detailing.
A country farmhouse often benefits from natural timber, warmth and handcrafted character.
A contemporary new-build provides opportunities for cleaner lines and sculptural forms.
No two homes should look alike because no two homes tell the same story.
It's About More Than Appearance
Beautiful cabinetry isn't simply decorative. Well-designed bespoke joinery should solve practical problems too.
It can:
Maximise storage.
Hide everyday clutter.
Display treasured collections.
Improve organisation.
Create balance and proportion within a room.
The most successful fitted furniture works hard behind the scenes while looking effortless.
Timeless, Not Trend-Led
Whenever clients ask me whether they should follow the latest trend, my answer is always the same.
Choose what feels right for your home.
Trends come and go, but thoughtfully designed joinery, crafted with quality materials and inspired by the building itself, will remain beautiful for decades.
Whether that's a classic shaker kitchen or a striking wall of burl veneer cabinetry, the goal is the same: to create interiors that feel authentic, timeless and as though they have always belonged.
Looking to Design Bespoke Furniture?
Whether you're renovating a period property, redesigning your kitchen or planning bespoke cabinetry for a living room or home office, thoughtful joinery can completely transform the way your home looks and functions.
At Khaya Studio, we specialise in architecture-led interior design in Bristol, Bath, Somerset and the surrounding areas, creating bespoke interiors that are tailored to both the character of your property and the way you live.
If you're looking for an Interior Designer in Bristol, Interior Designer in Bath or an Interior Designer in Somerset, we'd love to help you create a home that is beautiful, practical and uniquely yours.
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