Best Kitchen Layout Ideas

The best kitchen layout ideas include a well-designed kitchen work triangle. A kitchen work triangle is the space where work is done is a kitchen. It represents the traffic flow between the three main kitchen tasks: cooking food, cleaning food and food storage. Ideally, each leg of a kitchen work triangle shouldn’t exceed 26 feet. Anything shorter feels too tight and anything longer is inefficient.

The six types of kitchen layouts are Island, L-Shape, Double L-Shape, U-Shape, Galley, Peninsula and Single Wall.

Island kitchen layout designs have many advantages. You get extra counter space for meal preparation and more storage for cooking tools. Islands define the kitchen space and can provide an additional dining option. On the other hand, a kitchen island doesn’t work well in small or tight kitchens. It can get in the way of good traffic flow and may require special plumbing or wiring.

L-Shaped kitchen floor plans offer more storage and counters. They also allow for more cooks in a kitchen. It has different meal prep areas, and appliances can be spread out. L-shaped kitchens have an open feel and can handle more traffic. Some have islands for additional prep and dining space. However, L-shaped kitchens can make a single cook move around more and may not be as efficient for small households. Plus, the additional space can lead to clutter if not kept organized.

A double L-shaped kitchen design brings even more countertop, storage and meal preparation space. These types of kitchens add L-shaped islands to L-shaped kitchen layout designs. The result is a rectangular kitchen work triangle. The double L-shaped kitchen design works best with open, large kitchen spaces. It is great for entertaining but requires a lot of moving around to be used well.

U-Shape kitchens include three walls for cabinets and appliances. They make maximum use of any available space. They have efficient work triangles, placing the fridge, stove and sink at equal distances. U-shape kitchens have good counterspace and a continuous work area. They provide adequate storage, although some areas can be hard to access or fully use. They are recommended for large families or for those who prefer an open kitchen.

Galley kitchen floor plans are great for smaller spaces. This type of kitchen layout features a central walkway with about an 8-foot row of cabinets on each side. It’s also a budget-friendly option because you use the minimum of cabinets, counters and appliances. Galley kitchens have the most efficient work triangles for a single cook. However, they are not the best choice for large households or for those who entertain often.

Peninsula kitchen layouts have an asymmetrical look. They have more counter, cabinet and seating space. This type of kitchen design can provide the extra space a narrow or small kitchen needs. Although the work triangle is adequate, they’re much less efficient than larger kitchens. Traffic flow is tight and they rarely work well with more than one cook at a time.

One of the most common small kitchen layout ideas, the single wall kitchen is open and simple. All the workspace is against one wall, making for good traffic flow. It is ideal for any open kitchen concept. It has good prep areas, but is best for one cook at a time. Single wall kitchens are very budget-friendly and can make the most of any size space. Storage options are few, so a separate pantry may be necessary.

Choosing the right layout for your kitchen remodel is essential to a successful project. Here’s a few questions that can help you make a great decision:

• How many people will cook at the same time?
• How much cold and pantry storage do you need for food?
• Where will you store cooking pots and tools?
• Do you need space for small appliances?
• Will you need a space that allows you to entertain?
• What size kitchen can your home accommodate?