Kitchen Layouts: Finding The Plan That Best Suits You

We've all heard of the "work triangle" consisting of the sink, range and refrigerator. But seeing as the modern kitchen is one of the most multi-functional rooms in the home, there's much more for homeowners to consider when planning their kitchen layout. Before you begin your kitchen renovation, read up on these six popular kitchen layouts and find the plan that's right for you!

One-Wall

A one-wall kitchen has, as its name suggests, all of its cabinets and work centers grouped along a single wall. This layout is commonly seen in smaller homes or studio apartments where space is limited. Modern one-wall kitchens often include an island, which gives the space the appearance of a Galley-style kitchen. A one wall kitchen can often be very functional because everything is nearby and easy to keep clean.  

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Galley

Similar to the one-wall layout, the walk-through or Galley kitchen is characterized by its two opposite, parallel walls with a walk way between them. The galley kitchen ideally has at least 48" of walkway between the cabinets for optimal functionality. Though less ideal for high-traffic areas, the Galley layout is a clean and efficient solution for smaller spaces or one-two cook kitchens. 

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L-Shaped 

A classic choice for medium- and small-sized kitchens, the L-Shaped layout maximizes corner space and eliminates traffic by allowing people to pass through the kitchen without entering the work area The L-Shaped layout consists of two work zones on perpendicular adjoining walls, but you may choose to add multiple dining and prep areas to the kitchen like, for instance, an island, peninsula, or nook. This is one of the most popular layouts due to its functionality.

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U-Shaped

For those who love to work in the kitchen, consider a U-shaped plan. This layout keeps the cook surrounded by counter tops on all three sides, adding much-needed counter space while creating a continuous work area with all of your essentials quickly within reach. ​Adding a peninsula or island can make this an efficient and beautiful set up. This is the easiest way to keep the work triangle intact and creates an almost built in feel to the kitchen.

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Island

For kitchens with enough floor space, islands can be incredibly functional for working and seating. A working island can include appliances and cabinetry for storage, and it provides additional counter space for eating or food prep. An island can transform the feeling of a one-wall kitchen into a Galley, or an L-Shaped kitchen into a U-Shaped. Islands are great for a hidden microwave, storage cabinets, and other smaller appliances like wine fridges, compactors and more. 

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Peninsula

A peninsula kitchen uses a connected island to convert a traditional L-Shaped kitchen into a horseshoe or U-Shaped layout. Peninsulas are a great option for those who want the function of a true island but who need more clearance and easily accessible counter top. A peninsula can also accommodate seating and gives the cook a dedicated space for working with no traffic. 

Contact us today and see what the kitchen and bath experts at Lakeville can do for your home!

While these are the most common kitchen layouts, there are a million ways to design a kitchen and often times the best layout does not conform to these rules. Taking ideas from the different styles can give you a very unique and functional kitchen.

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