A New Jersey Shaker Kitchen

Built by the Stickley brothers, one of America’s most influential designers during the Arts and Crafts movement, this home was so atmospheric and unique. The house was completely surrounded by trees and foliage, giving the feeling of being up in the branches and very private, such a lovely mood to create. Just an hour from Manhattan, Maplewood, New Jersey feels a world away from the city.

Paul, Danielle and their family were the owners of this house, they were part of our TV series ‘For The Love Of Kitchens’. It was such a welcoming and authentic home, so we felt very flattered that they chose our Shaker cupboards. They wanted simplicity and something that was beautifully made but they also needed cupboards that would not detract from the original features and would fit in seamlessly and practically. Paul and Danielle were very keen collectors of quirky handmade ceramics, vintage lighting, and rare pieces of furniture, so it is a real testament to our cupboards that they felt comfortable putting them alongside their carefully sourced items.

Carrara marble worktops, Mushroom painted cabinets and a black Lacanche cooker, these simple, classic choices added a lightness to the space and managed to feel practical and unassuming yet totally in keeping with the rest of the house.

To the side of the kitchen there was the most delightful little pantry, tiled and with original cupboards, it was not only very alluring but so practical. It’s always such a joy to find original cupboards that you can use and incorporate into a new kitchen without them feeling too different or out of place. They added so much charm to the finished room and matched perfectly with our kitchen cupboards, both enhancing each other.

We really enjoyed visiting this kitchen, it took us back to the simplicity of our Shaker cupboards and the ease with which they fit into almost any style of home.