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Abigail's favourite Shaker kitchen combinations for family homes
- Abigail Leek
- Jun 23
- 6 min read
Updated: 5 days ago
When it comes to designing a kitchen that balances timeless elegance with practical family living, our own Design Manager, Abigail Leek, believes the Shaker kitchen style remains unmatched.
We sat down with Abigail to explore her favourite Shaker kitchen combinations, perfect for busy family homes.
Why do Shaker kitchens work so well in family homes?
"Shaker kitchens have evolved so much," Abigail explains. "Traditionally ornate, they can now be dressed in both modern and classic ways. The beauty lies in their versatility. You can introduce different textures like woodgrain, add beading or grooves for extra interest, and really make the design your own. It’s a wonderful base to layer with personal style."
The adaptability of Shaker design means that whether you're styling a country farmhouse or a sleek modern townhouse, the clean lines and simplicity of Shaker cabinetry provide a timeless foundation. For family homes, this versatility is especially valuable as it allows the kitchen to remain relevant and visually appealing even as personal tastes and design trends evolve over the years.
What are your favourite colour combinations?
When it comes to colour, Abigail isn’t afraid of bold choices. “I love it when clients are brave and go for rich tones like black or terracotta,” she says. "But equally, I have a soft spot for the more classic schemes – soft porcelains or off-white stones that give a French château feel. And I always enjoy seeing clients combine colours to create something unique."
Abigail highlights that the ability to blend colours allows homeowners to achieve a kitchen that feels uniquely personal. For example, darker tones like Carbon or deep navy can be used on an island to create a dramatic centerpiece, while lighter tones such as Porcelain or Dove Grey soften the surrounding cabinetry. This combination not only introduces visual interest but also balances bold design statements with an inviting warmth suitable for everyday family life.
How can homeowners combine textures to make the ultimate family Shaker kitchen?
Abigail believes texture is key to elevating a Shaker kitchen design. "I love pairing simple, painted Shaker doors with bold worktops that make a statement. Whether it’s suede, matte or gloss finishes, a strong pattern on the worktop can really define the space. And accessories can make a huge difference too – handles in wood, bronze, brass, or stainless steel introduce warmth and character."
She adds that clients often underestimate how much small details contribute to the final look. "Handles, for example, are a wonderful way to bring texture and tactile quality into a design. A walnut handle paired with brushed brass hardware can add sophistication while still feeling homely and warm."
What are the design choices or layout details homeowners should consider?
Functionality is just as important as aesthetics in family kitchens. Abigail encourages clients to think about how they use their space daily. "If you have young children, consider creating seating areas where they can sit or play while you're cooking," she advises. "A large island can provide prep space and a gathering point. And as children grow, you want enough workspace to cook together comfortably."
In busy households, multiple cooking zones, ample countertop space, and sufficient storage become vital. Abigail recommends induction hobs for their safety features and efficient use of space, especially when small children are present. "An induction hob gives you a flat, cool surface that is safer than open flames," she explains. "You can use the extra space for prep work when the hob isn’t in use."
She also points to the benefits of modern appliances. "Warming drawers are great for families who eat at different times, and combination ovens give you the flexibility to prepare a variety of meals without needing multiple full-size ovens."
A personal favourite Shaker kitchen family project: Linden Barn
One project that stands out for Abigail is the Linden Barn Farm kitchen in Coxheath, designed for the Briggs family. "It was a large, spacious kitchen that allowed us to be creative on a bigger scale," she recalls.
Having previously designed a kitchen for the client’s daughter, Abigail used that as inspiration, blending familiar elements with fresh ideas to create a kitchen that felt entirely unique. "The family was very involved throughout the design process, which allowed us to make sure every detail was perfectly tailored to their needs."
The design features our Bethersden paint-to-order Shaker doors in Carbon and Porcelain with no beading for a clean, contemporary twist. The cabinetry’s subtle woodgrain texture adds depth, while the Bloom Stones London Calacatta Classico quartz worktops bring a creamy, warm undertone that softens the overall look.
"The warm undertones of the Bloomstone quartz paired beautifully with the bold Carbon cabinetry. It created a space that feels both grand and welcoming, which was exactly what the family wanted for their home."
What are your top tips for families planning a new kitchen?
Consider your lifestyle and space. "Think carefully about how you entertain, cook, and live day-to-day. That will shape your layout. Are you often hosting large gatherings? Do your children like to help you cook? Your answers will guide the overall design."
Plan for growth. "Choose neutral cabinetry for longevity, and introduce bolder colours through splashbacks, worktops, or wall colours. You can refresh these elements over time without a full redesign. This allows your kitchen to evolve as your family grows."
Prioritise appliances. "Don’t underestimate your cooking needs. A larger hob or multiple ovens can make a big difference for growing families, especially when cooking for several people."
Avoid overcrowding. "Be clear on the appliances and features you truly need. It's better to have a well-functioning, tailored space than one packed with unnecessary extras that compromise the flow of the kitchen."
How can you future proof your kitchen?
A kitchen isn’t something most families want to redesign every few years. Abigail emphasises that future-proofing your design is essential. "If you’re concerned about your kitchen going out of style, keep the cabinetry neutral and classic. You can always add personality through your worktop, splashback, lighting, and accessories. These can be updated relatively easily over time to give your kitchen a fresh feel."
She continues, "For families with young children, it’s also worth thinking ahead about safety and durability. Hardwearing quartz worktops, for example, stand up well to the wear and tear of family life while still looking beautiful."
Where do you get inspiration for your kitchen designs?
Abigail’s own design inspiration comes from a blend of contemporary architecture and timeless interiors. "I love looking at Architectural Digest or curated homes with mid-century influences," she shares. "Dakota Johnson’s kitchen in her California home is a favourite – deep greens, metallic elements, and a beautiful blend of modern and historic design."
She also finds inspiration in unexpected places, from period architecture to individual pieces of furniture. "There’s something very satisfying about taking a detail from a piece of furniture or an architectural element and giving it new life in a kitchen. Sometimes I’ll see a texture or colour palette in a hotel or a boutique shop and think about how it could be translated into cabinetry or worktops."
The Gardiner of England approach
At Gardiner of England, this level of thoughtful detail is what sets each of our kitchens apart. Every project is designed in-house by our expert team of designers, who together hold over 30 years of experience crafting kitchens that balance beauty, practicality, and longevity. Our British-manufactured kitchens are built in our dedicated UK production facility, allowing us to oversee every step of the manufacturing process with precision.
With our Made in Britain approval, clients have the reassurance that every element, from frontals to worktops, has been produced to the highest standards right here in the UK. This allows us not only greater quality control but also the flexibility to create truly bespoke designs that fit our clients' individual needs.
"One of the things I love most about our approach is the collaborative relationship we have with each client," Abigail says. "We don’t rush the process. Our designers only take on a limited number of projects per year to ensure every design gets the care and attention it deserves."
Crafting kitchens with heart
Ultimately, what excites Abigail most is helping families create kitchens that are not only beautiful but also truly functional for their daily lives. "A kitchen should evolve with your family. When we get it right, it becomes the heart of the home for years to come."
If you’re ready to start designing your own family kitchen, book a design appointment with one of Gardiner of England’s experienced designers today and experience the craftsmanship that sets us apart.
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