What determines the layout of your kitchen? You may have heard the expression “Form follows function”. This holds true for the layout of a kitchen. However, there are some basic layouts for kitchens: Straight and Galley.
You can create the work triangle by drawing an invisible line connecting the range, sink, and refrigerator. The length of each leg is not shorter than 4ft or longer than 9ft. The total length of all legs must not exceed 26 feet.
There are no obstructions to the triangle.
ONE WALL
One wall kitchens are the smallest layouts. For obvious reasons, there is no work triangle. This layout works well in smaller homes and as a secondary kitchen in larger homes. This kitchen layout is ideal for apartments that are small in size and can be incorporated into open-plan lofts or open floor plans.
One-wall kitchens are often suited to combination appliances due to their small size. A hood/microwave is a good choice, as well as a range for baking and cooking. Avoid putting too many appliances together. The kitchen will be more functional if there is enough space between the appliances.
Pros:
This kitchen is completely isolated from outside traffic by the single wall design.
This layout is ideal for an open plan kitchen or basic kitchen layout.
Most likely to be the kitchen remodel cost.
Cons:
It is less efficient because it does not have a traditional triangle for work in the one-wall kitchen design.
Storage space can be limited by a lack of size.
A smaller kitchen like this can make storage difficult.
CORRIDOR
Galley, or corridor-style kitchen design layout, gets its name from the ship’s galley. This layout is also known as a corridor or kitchen plan. This kitchen plan has all appliances and cabinets in a straight line along the opposite walls. Because of its small size, this kitchen can be very efficient. You can find everything you need right there, so much of the back-and-forth movement by the cook is eliminated.
This kitchen layout has one major drawback: it is a pass-through kitchen. It invites people OnlyWomenStuff into the kitchen, which can lead to crowded areas. To allow for ample space, aim to keep countertops at least 4 feet apart.
If possible, try to stop guests passing through the kitchen. This kitchen will have ample storage space and enough counter space if it is well planned. This kitchen design is ideal for space-saving appliances like smaller refrigerators or under cabinet appliances.
Pros:
This kitchen is efficient because of its smaller workspace and simple layout.
It is easy to keep clean and clutter-free.
Remodeling this kitchen shouldn’t be too expensive because of the limited space.
Cons:
If the galley kitchen opens on both sides, traffic can become a problem.
Cooks can be isolated in galley kitchens and are often not involved with guests.
These are not meant to be eaten in their original form. A snack bar can be included if planned well.
L-SHAPED
The L-Shape is perhaps the most popular kitchen design. This layout eliminates the need for pass-through traffic. Corner storage is also possible thanks to the base and wall cabinetry on the inside of this L-shaped kitchen. This space should be used wisely and taken advantage of. Avoid dead corners and empty spaces.
To avoid excessive travel in the kitchen, don’t make the L too long. Ideal leg length is 12-15 feet. You can add an island to your kitchen plan if you have enough space.
Pros
This is a great choice for a medium-sized kitchen.
This is a very efficient kitchen to use for cooking.
An island or peninsula, if space is available, can be added storage and function.
Cons:
The work triangle can be disrupted by household traffic.
You can reduce traffic by placing your refrigerator at the end one leg of an L-shaped shape.
Combination microwave/hood is the most efficient way to use space, but it does not provide maximum ventilation.
USHAPED
The U-shaped kitchen is similar to the L-shaped, but has more counter and storage space. The U-shaped kitchen has two corners that you need to consider. There are many options here, including blind corner cabinets, magic corner cabinets, and lazy susan cabinets.
This layout is ideal for larger kitchens. You can also add an island to your kitchen. If you do decide to add an island, make sure there is at least 42 inches of free space around it.
You may want to consider adding an island to your traditional work triangle to break up the flow.
Pros
Good for larger kitchen plans. Plenty of storage and counter space.
This is a great way to add an island to your kitchen.
Traffic is eliminated through the work triangle.
Cons:
There is rarely a dedicated workstation on the island. Instead, there is usually one cook kitchen.
To avoid cramped feeling in the kitchen, keep the U’s back wall at least 12 feet long
Keep appliances at least 3 feet from corners.
GSHAPED
The G-shaped kitchen is a modified version the U-shaped. The G shape can often be completed by adding a peninsula to make it more streamlined. A peninsula can make your kitchen look more welcoming, especially if you have seating for guests.
G-shaped kitchens have a downside. It limits access to the main area of the kitchen. This must be avoided. You should ensure that there is enough space between the G leg and the cabinetry on either side. This should not be less than 48 inches from the nearest entry point.
Pros:
Smaller kitchens may not have as much storage or counter space.
You can offer seating space to a few people.
This is a great way to restrict access to the busy work triangle in the kitchen.
Cons:
It can make your kitchen seem smaller or more closed-in than it really is.
You must ensure that there is enough ingress and exit to the main kitchen work area.
These are just a few of the many options available. There are no two kitchens exactly the same.
Your kitchen layout will be unique.
. Consider how you will use it in the future. Also, consider the needs of each member of your family. You’re on the right track to creating a custom, kitchen with thoughtful planning.