I chose the shaker style for my cabinet door when I bought my prebuilt condo. I like the simpleness of the slab-style door, but only if they come in glossy white or anything look bright and shining, otherwise I think slab overtime the look dull and boring.

I totally agree with Patty.  And if you want to be original, you can always paint your cabinets another color.  The shaker style is more traditionnal and will still look good in a couple of years compare to solid slab-style which will look like it's been done in the early 2010's.

The shaker style gives me a feeling of "home". The slab gives me the impression of "ultra modern slick minimalist look". Looks shiny and interesting, but not comforting. Come to think of it, I can't ever remember seeing the slab style in my husband's custom cabinet shop either, and his clients are predominantly house-owners. Interesting.

Karen

Wife to Castor River Woodworks

Slab = easier to keep clean = the type of cabinets for me!

I have shaker style right now because the slab was actually an upgrade when I bought my townhouse from the plans and I decided to use my upgrade budget elsewhere. Have regretted it ever since.

I have slab. I'm indifferent really, as they are veneered MDF sort of cupboards that came with the condo. If they were white I would likely love them, but they are dark and ALWAYS look finger-printy. All I really want is real wood, shaker  or not.

I agree with you Elana.  Flat panels give more room to play with re hardware, refinishing, mixing design elements etc.  however I am not so quick to point the finger at Real Estate professionals creating the trumour that you mention but prefer to blame it on  'good old fashion brain washing' ..... or more politely known as  'mass advertising'.      :)         -Brenda-

(Hopefully I have not offended anyone by this statement who may have Shaker Cabinets.    In the event I did,  I apologize.)

Undecided for me... though more so on the slab style.

I like that the slab style has the ability to look ultra cool and contemporary...

I think both are great for resale, depending on the whole look of your kitchen. You can dress both styles up with great hardware... you could dress just about any style of cabinet up with hardware, even if it was really nasty.

I have creamy beige slab style doors with vintage brass handles, and I think it looks sweet!

Shaker is a classic look.  Never goes out of style.  

I do believe that shaker is better for resale.  However, I do have shaker style and actually don't like it.  The little edge is a real dirt collector!!

I do believe that shaker is better for resale.  However, I do have shaker style and actually don't like it.  The little edge is a real dirt collector!!

Let's face it folks.... the slab style is trendy, and very cool right now, just like it was in the 50-60's, but in a few years it will be back out of style, and frankly I don't have tens of thousands of dollars to restyle every few years for new kitchen cabinets.  Neutral is the way to go, as in good old white or ivory cabinets.  Never in style, never out of style, and play up your colours and accessories to be the trendy part. That way when you get sick of something, you can easily update, such as changing handles, accessory colours, even the countertops and you won't have broken the bank.