5 unique kitchen cabinet ideas that aren't Shaker style

Some designs are enduringly popular, but if you're looking to add a personal touch to your scheme, unique kitchen cabinet ideas that aren't Shaker style might be the way to go.

Even though adding a timeless element to your space might be appealing (and there's nothing wrong with doing so), kitchen cabinet ideas are a great place to add a more unique feature. And while Shaker kitchens are considered the most classic, there are so many other designs that offer the same enduring appeal.

Whether your interior design style leans more modern or traditional, coastal or Scandi, these unique kitchen cabinet ideas are sure to add interest and personality to your space.

5 unique kitchen cabinet ideas to try

Your kitchen should showcase your personality as much as any other room in your home. And, as cabinets are one of the largest features in your kitchen, making a unique statement will set your space apart from others, and experts say these are the designs to consider.

1. Mid-century style wood cabinets

Designs of the past offer plenty of inspiration for adding unique appeal to kitchen schemes, and mid-century style is one aesthetic that never seems to feel dated or out of place in the modern home. So, introducing cabinets in this vintage style is a great way to add a more unique feature.

'Our first wood kitchen cabinets, the Haberdasher’s collection, has been an astounding success. It is a mid-century-styled kitchen range that works just as well in libraries, bars, and workspaces and has completely won the hearts of those looking for really beautiful craftsmanship,' says Helen Parker, creative director at deVOL Kitchens.

'It is the first time we have divided our love so readily to a new and completely different deVOL style and it seems it has captured many people with its nostalgic look and un-kitcheny visual,' she adds.

2. Cabinets with decorative mouldings

Even if you don't opt for Shaker cabinets, there are plenty of alternative options with moldings that add interest to your kitchen. Think of it as a more evolved take on the classic design, with the option for more personalization.

'Shaker style kitchens have been popular for many years now. But as with many interior design trends, this much-loved look has now reached a time when it’s beginning to evolve,' says kitchen designer Richard Davonport.

'Moldings and trims are being introduced to add personality and a ’layered look’ to doors. The best thing about this design evolution is that it’s highly customizable – and the homeowner can give their kitchen a unique look,' he adds.

Richard explains that the appeal of this unique kitchen cabinet idea is that you can create a bespoke look without the bespoke price tag. You can simply add molding, trim, or beading to a plain door in a design that feels in keeping with your kitchen style.

3. Glass-fronted kitchen cabinets

Kitchen cabinets usually have a solid door made from wood of some sort, but there's no reason you can't introduce different materials for a more unique look. One option that proves to be a timeless look is glass-fronted kitchen cabinets.

'Sometimes gadgets and treasures can get a little dusty or greasy if displayed in open areas of the kitchen so glass-fronted cabinets are a good solution. Old museum cabinets and vintage glazed pieces, although hard to find, are a great way to display and store in style,' says Helen.

The appeal of this design is the versatility – clear glass creates a beautiful display cabinet filled with your favorite kitchenware while fluted glass adds a textural element that allows the contents of the cabinet to stay hidden.

4. Slab doors with a textured finish

Sometimes, a less-is-more approach to kitchen cabinets is the best way to make your space feel more unique. Opting for simplicity in design can give your scheme breathing space and allow other areas of your kitchen to shine.

'We love a slab door in an inframe kitchen which is a super up-to-date look as an alternative to a traditional Shaker kitchen. The painted doors can be combined with a textured finish such as our brushed limed grain or timber veneer,' says Jayne Everett, creative designer at Naked Kitchens.

This style of kitchen cabinet offers plenty of opportunity to add a personal touch with hardware. In a more traditional kitchen, brass hardware can create an old-meets-new look, or, as Jayne suggests, 'slab doors with an integrated handle work wonderfully on a frameless kitchen for a sleek timeless look.'

5. Kitchen cabinets with curtains

This year's kitchen trends have seen cabinet curtains making a comeback, and they're a great way to add unique style to your scheme. While removing your cabinet doors and replacing them with fabric might seem bonkers, it can create a really homey look.

If you do choose to go with cabinet curtains, it's best to introduce them on lower cabinetry, rather than uppers. The benefit here is that the fabric will soften the look of your kitchen by removing some of the hard surfaces, and they're ideal for disguising bulky items like pots and pans.

While this is an eye-catching way to add a unique feature to your kitchen, it is better suited to kitchens that lean more cottage, country, or rustic in style. In a contemporary scheme, cabinet curtains will likely feel misplaced, so really take into consideration the aesthetic you are trying to achieve.

Classic kitchen cabinets come in all different styles, proving that Shaker isn't your only option. Whether you lean into vintage-inspired designs or something more contemporary, there are plenty of unique kitchen cabinet ideas to choose from.