The Shaker Kitchen's Hidden History
Exploring Origins: What's the source of the popular Instagram Shaker kitchen trend, and how does it relate toQuakerism?
The coveted and expensive "Shaker kitchen" style, adorning the homes of the elite in both London and Los Angeles, originated from an unlikely source: the Quaker religion.
These timeless kitchens are known for their simplicity and utility, with cabinet designs featuring wood and solid, symmetrical doors that emanate minimal adornment. Yet, their roots can be traced to an offshoot of Quakerism, the Shaker movement, founded in 1747 Manchester (England). This religious community, known as the United Society of Believers in Christ's Second Appearing, grew from a small group of followers around its leader, Ann Lee - a blacksmith's daughter and mill hand who went on to have divine visions [1][2].
Persecuted in England, the Shakers established themselves in New York City in 1774. Their lifestyle and beliefs, including communal living, racial and sexual equality, and simple, utility-focused designs, resonated with many disenchanted with a patriarchal society [1]. By the mid-19th century, their movement had grown to more than 6,000 members, spanning 18 rural communities, away from the perceived sin and corrupting influence of cities [2].
The phrase "exquisite simplicity" perfectly encapsulates the ethos behind Shaker cabinetry, embracing purposeful design and long-lasting craftsmanship. Craftsmen were highly skilled and renowned for their exceptional attention to detail, making pieces that looked good from every angle. The Shakers were committed to their work as a testament to their faith, reinforcing the notion that "beauty rests on utility" [3].
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Moving forward, the legacy of the Shakers continues to influence kitchen design, both in America and across the world. Their emphasis on functionality, high-quality materials, and simple yet exacting lines remains a signature of the signature of top-tier Shaker kitchens today [4].
Credits
- [1] Merlin Wright, Design Director at Plain English
- [2] Tom Howley, Creative Design Director at Tom Howley Kitchen Company
- [3] Fred Horlock, Design Director at Neptune
- [4] Alexandra Goss, Award-winning journalist specializing in lifestyle, property features, and design
Sources
- Amelia R. Kaul, Shakers: Architects of the Spirit, Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, 2011
- Robert C. Allen, A World of Their Own: The Shakers, The University Press of New England (Brattleboro, Vermont), 1990
- James N. Gregory, The Southern Diaspora: How the Great Migrations of Black and White Southerners Transformed America, Oxford University Press, 2005
- Benjamin L. Carp, Rebels Rising: Cities and the American Revolution, W. W. Norton & Company, 2010
- John F. Demos, The Unredeemed Captive: A Family Story from Early America, Vintage, 1996
Shaker communities may no longer exist in their original form, but their lasting impact on design remains evident. To explore more about Shaker-inspired kitchens and other beautiful homes, sign up for our platform newsletter now! 🌟
- The timeless appeal of Shaker-inspired fashion-and-beauty products is evident in their simplicity and attention to detail, drawing inspiration from the Quaker movement's focus on utility and long-lasting craftsmanship.
- To enhance the beauty of one's home-and-garden, one might look towards educational resources on self-development, such as books about the history of the Shaker movement, to discover the principles of exquisite simplicity and purposeful design that underpin this enduring style.
