Planning renovations to a home or adding personal touches to a custom built home can be confusing if people aren’t familiar with all the different styles of décor. Often the term Shaker doors is used by designers and contractors with the assumption homeowners understand just what is meant.
It can also be more confusing as there are other terms interchanged with the term Shaker doors. These may not be not exactly the same, but they may be very close in appearance. A good example of this is the term mission doors, which many people see as the same general type of style, and they are correct.
The History of Shaker Doors
Shaker doors are actually part of a specific type of design originating with a religious group known as the Shakers. They were formed in England in the 18th century and they had their roots in the early Quaker lifestyle.
Many members of the group moved to the United States and colonized the areas around what is now New York. They were not large in number and even at the peak of their popularity their numbers were about 6000. They lived in simple modesty, building their own furniture which was very functional and minimal in decorations or added features.
New Door Styles
The new styles of Shaker doors are based on the same historic style. They feature clean, simple lines with inset panels and raised frames and cross pieces. This style is rarely painted but rather stained to allow the beauty of the wood to show through.
New styles of Shaker doors can include windows and glass panels, still typically divided by the cross pieces and wider surrounding door frame. The number of panels or windows in the door will depend on the side and width of the door, and the area of the home the door is designed for.
A great look with Shaker doors is antique looking glass. Reed glass, which has the appearance of vertical bands through the glass, is very appealing and rustic in appearance. Rain water glass is another option as it looks older and provides privacy while still allowing natural light.
Often Shaker doors are fitted with very traditional and minimal handles to perfectly match the streamline look of the doors. Of course, it is possible to use a variety of different types of hardware on the doors which gives you the option to create a unique look for every room.
If you are looking for a great selection of Shaker doors visit us online. At Nick’s Building Supply we offer mahogany and oak doors with solid panels and glass.
