Return to site

7 Kitchen Layout Ideas to Consider Before You Renovate

It's easy to design a functional and beautiful kitchen with these layout ideas.

Design and Space it Right

Renovations and custom homes can offer the opportunity to design the kitchen of your dreams. The "kitchen triangle" and zone methods are good starting points when trying to find the perfect layout. These are both ways to organize the space according to functionality.

If you want to know more about Kitchen Remodeling Company Arlington VA.

broken image

The triangle includes the stove/oven, fridge, and sink. Each side is between 9 and 4ft long and has a total length of fewer than 26ft. The zone method organizes space according to the elements required for cooking, cleaning, and prep.

These are guidelines that will improve the layout of your kitchen, but they might not be applicable to every space. The kitchen can still work like a dream, even though the triangle may not be applicable at all times. To better suit your space or needs, you can always alter it.

L-Shaped Floor Plan

L-shaped kitchen floor plans feature two walls that are adjacent. Many of these kitchens also have both lower cabinets and higher cabinets. The "L" usually has one leg that is longer than the other. The longer leg usually has more appliances while the shorter leg provides more counter space.

This floor plan is great for small spaces as well as open floor plans. This floor plan is also great for creating a casual, eat-in area. A full dining room table can be accommodated in larger kitchens. It is much easier to serve food and snacks when there are no barriers between the counter and the table. Many L-shaped floorplans allow for two chairs and a cafe table.

Horseshoe Kitchen

The U-shaped or horseshoe kitchen has counter space. Upper and lower cabinets can be located on three adjacent walls. This layout allows for efficient use of space in smaller kitchens and easy establishment of designated cooking areas in larger ones.

An island or small seating area may be possible in a horseshoe kitchen. It can however improve traffic flow if the center space is kept open. This extra space allows for more movement in the kitchen, without having to step on or run into each other.

Central Island

A central island in a kitchen can be used for prep and eating, as well as additional storage below. These islands are great for open floor plans and minimalist designs that have sleek, integrated appliances.

This layout is characterized by large islands that are big and bold in scale, design, materials, and other features. The island's dramatic waterfall countertops and mixed media-like concrete with reclaimed wood draw attention to them. These large islands can also be used as a central entertainment area, a sink, or extra eating space.

Peninsula Layout

A peninsula layout combines the efficiency of a U-shaped kitchen and the additional seating and storage that a central island provides. The three-sided workspace allows for food prep and cooking, allowing for efficient meal preparation. This layout leaves the middle open to allow for a mobile island or small eating area.

The peninsula adds versatility to your kitchen. You can use it to increase counter space, storage, or as a seating area.

One-Wall Kitchen

One-wall kitchens are a great space-saver for small apartments, townhomes, and lofts. They can be very functional if they are designed well. Although a one-wall kitchen may not be able to have a perfect triangle for the kitchen, it will usually provide enough space to accommodate all appliances.

This layout typically has the sink spaced evenly between the stovetop and the refrigerator. This makes it easier for you to move around between them. This space-saving layout allows for an eat-in table or seamless integration of the kitchen into an open plan.

Double Island

One island may be good enough, but two islands might be even better. Double island design creates additional traffic lanes, prep space, as well as eating areas. This kitchen has all the functions and looks of a professional kitchen. This layout does require some space.

The additional counter space and prep area may be a benefit to large families or those who enjoy entertaining. This layout is great for kitchens that have two sinks, or where one island serves as the eat-in area and the other the prep area.

Galley Kitchen

Galley kitchens make the most of small spaces. They are often found in older homes or apartments. These kitchens feature countertops and cabinets along parallel walls, with a narrow walkway between. For the best traffic flow, at least 4 to 6 feet must be between the walls.

Galley kitchens are great because they can be started as a hallway with the living and dining rooms on either side. This makes it possible to make the most of that space. To increase functionality, the galley layout can be combined with other designs. A small peninsula can be added to one side or a window in the wall can make a mid-kitchen area and an eating area.