In-frame vs shaker kitchens: what’s the difference?

October 14, 2026

Shaker and in-frame kitchens are two of the most popular traditional kitchen styles, and they are often confused. Both can look timeless and both can be painted in any colour, but they are built differently. Here is what sets an in-frame vs shaker kitchen apart, and how to choose.

What is a shaker kitchen?

A shaker door is a five-piece door: a flat centre panel surrounded by a simple square frame. The door sits on the front of the cabinet, covering the cabinet edges. Shaker kitchens are clean, versatile and work in both period and modern homes.

What is an in-frame kitchen?

In an in-frame kitchen, each cabinet has a solid face frame and the doors and drawers sit inside that frame, flush with it. You see a fine, even gap around each door. It’s the traditional furniture-maker’s way of building and gives a crafted, solid look.

The key differences

• Look – shaker is simple and adaptable; in-frame is more traditional and furniture-like.
• Build – in-frame needs a precise face frame and carefully fitted doors, so it takes more workshop time.
• Cost – in-frame usually costs more than shaker for the same layout.
• Storage – the face frame takes up a little space, so in-frame drawers are slightly narrower inside.
• Hinges – in-frame doors often use exposed butt hinges or special concealed hinges; shaker doors use standard concealed hinges.

Which should you choose?

Choose shaker if you want a timeless look that can lean modern or classic and makes the most of your budget. Choose in-frame if you love traditional craftsmanship and want the kitchen to feel like fitted furniture. Both can be made in Egger MFC, painted MDF or timber veneer, with hardware from makers such as Blum and Grass.

See examples in our Traditional style and bespoke kitchens, or book a discovery call. We work across London and the whole of the UK.