Among all the categories of furniture, the Shaker style is one of the most distinctive. Also, in a surprising twist, Shaker furniture enjoys great popularity as a trend-setter among modern furniture styles. So What is Shaker Style Furniture? And will your next furniture purchase be Shaker style?
So What is Shaker Style Furniture? Notice the simple, functional design and delicate, gently curved spindles of this Shaker dining room chair.
What Is Shaker Style Furniture?
Shaker style furniture originated over the time period of the American Revolutionary War. Because this is when a religious sect of the Quakers, called the Shakers, arrived in America. The Shakers were trying to escape the religious turmoil of their native England. So they settled in closely-knit, self-sufficient communities, primarily in upper New York State and New England.
The Shakers built their own furniture to accommodate large worship gatherings. So they used locally available woods such as pine, maple, and cherry. And they crafted furniture that reflected their commitment to simplicity and practicality.
Trademarks of Shaker Furniture
Shakers built furniture with some notable characteristics:
Simplicity. Shaker furniture typically has a simple, functional design.
Gentle Curves. The flared back and curved legs add a touch of elegance to an otherwise simple style.
Knob Hardware. Typically painted black, knob hardware stands out as one of the distinguishing traits of Shaker furniture.
Spindles and Slats. These delicate and less muscular features are manifestations of the Shakers’ emphasis on simplicity.
Shaker Makes its Mark on Furniture Design
Upon discovering Shaker style furniture, people outside of the Shaker community began to take note of the simplistic, elegant designs of Shaker style furniture. Also, they started requesting furnishings of their own. So the Shaker style grew in popularity. And eventually, it became an iconic contribution to American furniture.
Shaker Finds a Home Among the Amish
Amish cabinetmakers in Northern Indiana are leaders in creating custom-made, solid hardwood Shaker style furniture. And Weaver Furniture Sales offers a full line of Amish-crafted Shaker style furniture. What’s more, within the broader Shaker style, Amish artisans create furniture in various sub-styles, including Shaker Hill, Classic Shaker, Superior Shaker, and Brooklyn Shaker.
Visit Weaver Online or in Person
You can explore Weaver Furniture’s array of Shaker furniture online at Weaver Furniture Sales. Or, check out Weaver Furniture in person by visiting their ‘brick and mortar’ store in Shipshewana, Indiana.
