Shaker vs. Raised Panel Cabinets: Which Style Fits Your Kitchen Best?

Image by Medallion Cabinetry

Before your kitchen remodeling project begins, choosing the right kitchen cabinets is an important decision. Two of the most popular cabinet styles — shaker vs. raised panel cabinets — offer very different looks, and the choice between them can shape the entire feel of your kitchen.

If you're searching for kitchen cabinets near me in the Lynnwood, Everett or Bothell areas, SMY Home Improvement is here to help you make the best choice for your kitchen by exploring these cabinet door ideas.

What Are Shaker Cabinets?

Shaker kitchen cabinets feature clean lines, flat center panels, and minimal detailing. Known for their versatility, they’re a timeless choice that complements modern, transitional, and farmhouse kitchen styles.

Key Features:

• Clean, straightforward design

• Easy to clean and maintain

• Works with virtually any style of kitchen

• Budget-friendly options available

Modern shaker cabinets continue to lead kitchen cabinet trends in the Pacific Northwest, especially for homeowners who want style without complexity.

Image by Waypoint Living Spaces

What Are Raised Panel Cabinets?

Raised panel cabinets are more detailed and decorative, featuring an elevated or contoured center panel. These cabinets add dimension and visual depth, making them a favorite in traditional and luxury kitchen designs.

Key Features:

• Detailed, elevated center panel

• Rich, traditional appearance

• Adds visual texture and dimension

• Typically slightly higher in cost due to craftsmanship

Raised panel cabinets are perfect for homeowners who love classic, traditional, or luxury kitchen designs.

Shaker vs. Raised Panel Cabinets: Quick Comparison

Feature	Shaker Cabinets	Raised Panel Cabinets
Design	Clean, simple, flat panel	Decorative, elevated center panel
Best for	Modern, transitional, farmhouse styles	Traditional, rustic, luxury styles
Maintenance	Easy to clean	More intricate details to clean
Cost	Generally more affordable	Can be more expensive due to detailing
Durability	Very durable, fewer edges to damage	Durable, but carved details can wear faster
Trendiness	Always in style	Classic but slightly less trendy now

How to Choose the Right Cabinet Style for Your Kitchen

Your Overall Kitchen Design

• Want a modern or farmhouse feel? ➔ Go Shaker.

• Dreaming of a classic or luxury kitchen? ➔ Go Raised Panel.

Your Budget

Shaker cabinets are typically more cost-effective, making them ideal for budget-conscious kitchen remodels.

Maintenance

Flat panels on shaker kitchen cabinets make cleaning simple. Raised panel designs, while beautiful, require more effort to maintain.

Shop Kitchen Cabinets Near Lynnwood, Everett & Bothell

At SMY Home Improvement, we offer a wide variety of shaker and raised panel kitchen cabinets — plus complete kitchen remodeling services in Lynnwood, Everett, Edmonds, Mukilteo, and beyond.

If you are looking for cabinet showroom near Lynnwood, visit SMY Home Improvement to:

•  See real cabinet samples

• See installed kitchen cabinet examples

•  Meet our design experts

•  Plan your kitchen remodel!

Contact SMY today to get your kitchen cabinet order started!

FAQs: Shaker vs. Raised Panel Cabinets

What is the difference between a raised panel and a shaker cabinet door?

Shaker cabinet doors feature a flat center panel with minimal framing, offering a clean, modern look. Raised panel cabinet doors have a center panel that is elevated and often contoured, creating a more detailed and traditional appearance. The difference lies in the cabinet door style, where shaker is sleek and minimal, while raised panel adds dimension and decorative detail.

What are the disadvantages of shaker cabinets?

While shaker cabinets are versatile and easy to clean, one downside is that their flat panel and squared edges can show dust or grime more easily if not wiped regularly. In some cases, the simplicity of shaker cabinet doors may not appeal to homeowners seeking a more ornate or formal kitchen cabinet style.

Are Shaker style cabinets outdated?

Not at all. Shaker kitchen cabinets remain one of the most popular and enduring cabinet styles. Their clean lines and minimalist appeal make them a top choice for modern, transitional, and even farmhouse kitchen designs. Their timeless look ensures they stay relevant year after year.

Are raised panel cabinets timeless?

Yes, raised panel cabinets have a classic, elegant appearance that works especially well in traditional and luxury kitchen designs. While not as trendy as shaker styles today, they’re considered a timeless option for homeowners who prefer detailed craftsmanship and rich design elements.

Where can I find kitchen cabinets near me?

 If you live near Edmonds, Everett, Mukilteo or Bothell, SMY Home Improvement in Lynnwood, WA offers a wide range of shaker and raised panel kitchen cabinets — perfect for any remodeling style.