Measure Your Kitchen – And See What Layout Is Right For You!
Depending on the size and shape of your existing kitchen, any of these layouts might be right for you. Larger homes can benefit from a spacious G-shaped or C-shaped kitchen, while smaller kitchens are usually outfitted with straight, galley, or L-shaped kitchens. When planning out your kitchen layout, think about the shape and size of the space. Also think about limiting plumbing lines to one wall for budgeting purposes.
U-SHAPE – The U-shaped design is best suited to one or two cooks, and is very efficient for dishwashing, cooking, storage, and more. For
narrow kitchens, this is usually the best option, because you can fit all of your appliances in a small space. While the U-shape is great f or food preparation, it is not very conducive to communicating with guests, as they mainly must stay outside of the workspace.
- Suitable for large kitchen spaces.
- Working triangle layout.
- Maximum storage space
G-SHAPE – A G-shaped kitchen is quite similar to a U-shaped kitchen, with the addition of an eating counter/peninsula on one side of the “U” shape. This allows for more seating and a larger food preparation area. But because of this addition, G-shaped kitchens can feel somewhat cramped. The best way to alleviate this is by adding large, open windows, and creating an open layout that allows you to see the rest of your home.
- Medium to larger spaces
- Open plan living areas
- Maximizing storage and workspace
- Breakfast bar and entertaining
L-SHAPE – L-shaped kitchens are ideal for smaller kitchens with open floor plans. The “L” shape creates an efficient work triangle when working in the kitchen, allowing for plenty of space for food preparation.
- Suitable for small or large spaces.
- Working triangle layout.
- Ideal for an island bench
ONE WALL – Straight or “one wall” kitchens utilize a layout where the fridge and all other appliances are lined up on a single side of the wall. This is efficient for one or two cooks, and also minimizes the space required for your kitchen.
- Suitable for small kitchen spaces
- Cost effective
- Ideal for office spaces
GALLERY – Galley/corridor kitchens take their name from ship’s galleys, where they are designed for a single cook in a small space. Typically, the space between counters in a traditional galley kitchen is usually between 3 and 3.5 feet, making it quite small, and only suited for a single cook. However, galley and corridor kitchens can also be designed with a wider layout, with up to 5 feet between counters. This makes them more accommodating for more cooks and guests. In addition, one wall can be opened to create seating areas for guests, allowing for more interaction.
- Contemporary layout.
- Working triangle layout.
- Ample cabinet and bench space
ISLANDS – A popular addition to any layout, allowing
placement of stoves, sinks, bar, or dining area.
- Large spaces
- Connecting adjoining living spaces
- Entertaining and socialising
- Creating focus design features