When you’re knee-deep in kitchen renovations, one of the hardest things to decide is the overall look. And if you’ve been scrolling through ideas or walking through showrooms, chances are you’ve come across two of the most popular styles out there: Hamptons and Shaker.
They look similar at first glance. Both are clean and classic and don’t scream for attention. But the small details make a big difference.
So, if you’re stuck choosing between a Hamptons or Shaker style kitchen, this will help clear the air.
What’s a Shaker-style kitchen?
Let’s start simple. A shaker style kitchen is known for its straight lines and clutter-free look. The main feature here is the cabinetry, a flat centre panel bordered by a simple frame. No curves. No carving. No heavy detailing.
The colours? Usually white, grey, navy, or soft green. Nothing too loud.
Shaker kitchens are all about function. That’s what they were originally designed for. But what makes them still work today is that they’re neat and clean, and they just go with everything.
You can dress it up or keep it stripped back.The Paradise Kitchensteam will guide you in choosing the right design further.
What’s a Hamptons Style Kitchen?
Now, picture a coastal home in Sydney. That’s where the Hamptons look comes from. White walls, soft breezes, timber floors, big windows. The kitchen feels bright, open, and just a bit more polished.
Hamptons kitchens borrow a lot from Shakers. Same cabinet structure. But they go one step further.
It comes with a glass-front door, moulding, and some kitchen design and also includes a pendant light.
At Paradise Kitchens, we use softer materials, the finish is glossier, and there’s a little bit more charm to the whole thing.
Hamptons or Shaker Style Kitchens: What’s the Difference?
It’s not about what’s right or wrong. It’s more about what kind of vibe you’re going for. Here’s how it usually plays out:
1. The Cabinets
Both styles use the same shape. But Hampton’s style kitchen adds trims, edge detailing, or glass inserts. Shaker keeps it simple. Clean lines with a flat finish.
2. Classic Colours vs Dark
Shaker-style kitchens usually stick to the safe side. Grey, navy, deep green, white. Hamptons lean into whites and soft blues. You’ll rarely see a dark Hamptons kitchen.
3. Finishing
Hamptons kitchens are dressed up. Think marble-look benchtops, feature lighting, and brushed brass handles. Shaker-style kitchens are more stripped back. Basic handles. Matte finishes. Subtle tones.
4. Coastal vs Neat
If you like your kitchen to feel neat and minimal, go with a shaker. If you want it to feel open, coastal, and more decorative, the Hamptons-style kitchen design might suit you better.
5. Detailing
Hamptons kitchens love a bit of drama. Statement pendant lights. Decorative range hoods. It can also have something more detailed, such as the coffered ceiling. On the other hand, shaker-style kitchens are more restrained. It comes with splashbacks and minimalist tapware. Nothing too flashy.
6. Tiles
You’ll often find lighter timber or whitewashed flooring in a Hamptons kitchen. It’s like something breezy. Shaker goes darker. You get tiles with Oak, walnut, or slate. It’s more grounded.
Picking One for Your Kitchen Renovation
If you’re doing kitchen renovations and stuck between the two, ask yourself how much detail you want in the space.
Do you like things clean, quiet, and low-key? Shaker might be the answer.
Want your kitchen to feel lighter, airier, and just a bit more stylish? Hamptons could be a better fit.
Basically, Hampton gives you entertaining, wine-gazing boards and similar vibes. On the other hand, the shaker is best for everyday living.
And it also depends on the rest of the house. If you live in a modern apartment, a shaker might blend in better. If you’re in a weatherboard or something with a bit of character, Hamptons has a better chance of working.
Mixing the Two Kitchen Designs
You don’t have to commit hard to one side, either. Some people do a mix of shaker cabinetry with Hamptons-style lighting or fixtures. Others do a full Shaker kitchen but use Hamptons-inspired colours. It’s fine to take what works and leave the rest.
Kitchen designs aren’t rigid anymore. You can customise it however you want. As long as it feels like your space in the end, that’s all that matters.
What to Watch For in Kitchen Style
AtParadise Kitchens, we often give these tips to our customers who want one of these styles:
Don’t overdo the trims and moulding unless the rest of the house matches. It’ll feel off.
Watch the lighting. A Hamptons-style kitchen with cheap downlights won’t hit the mark.
Keep the benchtops in line with the rest of the look. Too much contrast can clash.
Don’t go with a too-plain shaker design. You can add textures as well.
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, both Hamptons and Shaker-style kitchens are safe bets. They’ve been around forever, and they’re not going anywhere.
The decision comes down to how much detail you like, how you want your kitchen to feel, and what works with the rest of your home.
So don’t stress too much. Pick what feels right. Both styles will give you a kitchen that looks good and works hard. And that’s what counts. Contact Paradise Kitchens for a complete consultation on which design to choose that suits your kitchen.
