Goodbye, Shaker Style! The Next Big Cabinet Trend is Here, And It’s Already Moving Beyond the Kitchen

There are some design trends that are everlasting in their popularity: wood floors, white walls, and millwork, for example. Another thing that can be added to that list? Shaker style cabinetry. 

Shaker cabinetry features a straightforward profile with an inset panel flanked by a thick frame around its edges. It’s a classic for a reason; it’s simple, timeless, and can easily transition between multiple decor styles, making for a truly flexible addition to any kitchen.

When my husband and I were first looking at the home we recently bought, I was slightly discouraged to find a different style of cabinetry in our kitchen. It wasn’t ugly by any means; in fact, the cabinets were supremely made and definitely of quality we probably couldn’t afford right now if we had decided to do them over (we didn’t). They weren’t the Shaker profile I recognized though, the one that gorgeous images on Pinterest and Instagram told me was the way stylish cabinets should look. But I decided to wait it out and see if a new style caught my eye.

Turns out, I was right to wait. A design that’s equal parts chic, visually interesting, and a breath of fresh air to kitchens and bathrooms everywhere has bubbled up to the fore in the home decor world, and it’s reeded cabinetry.

Characterized by their textural fronts, reeded cabinets often combine the best parts of millwork with a Shaker cabinet profile, only instead of leaving the inset panel empty and bare, it’s filled with ribbed pieces of wood that look like you glued a bunch of dowels onto it. Reeded cabinetry also plays well with classic Shaker cabinetry, too, as evidenced by the hybrid kitchen from Lindye Galloway Interiors just above, which features reeding on a tall pantry and appliance garage alongside glass front and regular Shaker cabinets in both natural wood and white.

Lately, this look has been popping up everywhere, from Instagram to design blogs, and on everything from kitchen cabinets to bathroom vanities. Even mudroom storage built-ins are getting a reeded makeover! Is this wood treatment replacing Shaker cabinetry for good? Nope, probably not. I think we can all agree, though, that it’s nice to see something different for a change.

The best part? You don’t have to be giving your home a major makeover to get in on the look. Like any good trend, reeding’s also trickling its way down to accessories like accent furniture and lighting. Shop a few of my favorites below and get ready to marvel at their subtle but pretty detailing.

If you’re looking to dip your toes into this look, no way would be cuter than with this little side table from CB2. The modern mushroom shape and reeded exterior pair with a mid-tone wooden finish for a look that’s fresh and versatile.

Buy: Trill Round Wood Side Table, $299.00 from CB2

It’s not often that cabinetry trends are reflected in lamps, but I’m so glad we got here! This metal and wood style from Crate & Barrel feels just trendy enough and would look especially nice in an office or reading nook.

Buy: Bridaine Table Lamp, $149.00 from Crate & Barrel

White and gold glam up the reeded look, and a small-scale nightstand is such an easy way to play around with a trend for all you home decor commitment-phobes out there (guilty!). Even though this piece is on the petite side, the drawer is roomy enough for all of your nighttime essentials.

Buy: Modern White Nightstand, $208.99 from Homary

Made using recycled wood, this chic vase makes the perfect home for your weekly farmer’s market arrangement or that dried pampas grass that you (thankfully) can’t kill. Choose between beige or black for the finish.

Buy: Minimalist Vase, $82.80 from Etsy

This pick is definitely a splurge, but for a substantial piece of reeded furniture (that isn’t a built-in cabinet), this free-standing piece can’t be beat. Use it as a bar cabinet or set it in your entry to hold some of the accessories you might need as you head out the door.

Buy: Fayette Bar Cabinet, $1,299.00 from Crate & Barrel

Reeding is typically on the front of cabinetry, but it can also be used as molding, too. Turn up your trim with this three-inch wide style, which is made of unfinished solid white hardwood that can be stained or painted in any color you like.

Buy: 3-in x 7-ft White Hardwood Wood Casing, $14.48 from Lowe’s