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Your Guide to Kitchen Layouts

19th Jun 2024
Strada Matte Cashmere Kitchen by STORI
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The kitchen has grown from a single purpose room to a multifunctional space that needs to accommodate various activities throughout the day. From cooking to homework and relaxing cups of tea, your kitchen needs to work for you in terms of aesthetics and functionality.

The size and shape of your space can play a major role when planning your kitchen layout. Whether you’re working with a big or small kitchen, it’s useful to keep in mind the concept of the ‘working triangle’.

Check out our guide below to discover common layouts and pick the perfect one for your dream kitchen.

The Working Triangle

The Working Triangle is based on the idea that with the right layout, you can make time spent in the kitchen easier, more efficient and more enjoyable.

This design rule is based on the three main working areas of the kitchen: the hob, the sink and the fridge. The aim is to place these areas as the points of a triangle to optimise your workflow, minimise the time and energy you waste moving between them, and maximise the joy of working and living in your kitchen.

Kensington – Heritage Green

Single Wall Kitchen

What is it?

A single wall layout consists of a single row of cabinets, fitted to one wall.

Why choose it?

The simplicity of a single wall layout can allow you to maximise efficiency without compromising on functionality.

Design Tips:

  • The traditional working triangle is not possible with a single wall kitchen, but you can create similar efficiency by positioning the three points in a line with just a few steps in between each zone.
  • Think vertically and create additional storage space by utilising the height of your walls.

 

Galley Kitchen

What is it?

A galley kitchen is named after the classic narrow ship kitchen, featuring one single row of units, while the double galley has two running parallel to each other.

Why choose it?

This layout is ideal for homes with narrow, long spaces, where appliances and storage can be placed along both walls, leaving a corridor in the middle. Galley kitchen layouts maximise every inch of space for storage and provide ample workspace for cooking and food prep.

Design Tips:

  • Consider using paler colours that can be effective in keeping the space light and airy.
  • Be careful not to install too many cabinets as this can make the room feel cluttered.

 

L-Shaped Kitchen

What is it?

L-shaped kitchens feature two runs of cabinetry at right angles along adjacent walls.

Why choose it?

This layout of a kitchen is very popular, particularly in smaller kitchens as it allows you to create a neat working triangle close together.

Design Tips:

  • Ensure there is enough space between each zone of the working triangle and consider installing a bank of built-in appliances on one side for ease of use.

 

Aldana – Viridian | Everfine Installations

U-Shaped Kitchen

What is it?

U-shaped kitchens showcase the run of cabinetry around 3 walls in a U-shape.

Why choose it?

Extremely practical, U-shaped kitchens allow you to create the perfect triangle, placing the hob in the centre with the sink and fridge on either side.

Design Tips:

  • Use clever storage solutions such as our VS COR Flex or VS CORNERSTONE Maxx to get the most out of corner cupboards.
  • If you feel like full cabinetry in a U-shaped kitchen would be overpowering, consider using a tall bank of cabinetry on one side and open shelving on another.

 

Belgravia – Parisian Blue | Back To The Kitchen

Peninsula Kitchen

What is it?

A peninsula kitchen layout incorporates a countertop that juts out from a wall or cabinetry, offering extra space for food preparation or seating.

Why choose it?

This layout is a great alternative for those who want the benefits of an island but don’t have the space to accommodate one.

Design Tips:

  • Use your peninsula to create additional storage space on both sides.
  • Add a worktop overhang to create a breakfast bar seating area.

 

Island Kitchen

What is it?

An island kitchen features an island in the centre of the space, with cabinetry and worktops on the surrounding walls.

Why choose it?

Kitchen islands offer flexible dining options and provide additional storage solutions. Islands offer additional cooking and preparation areas as well as making the kitchen a more sociable space.

Design Tips:

  • Consider incorporating a hob, sink or dishwasher into your island so you don’t waste time walking around it.
  • Ensure there is adequate space between your island and surrounding cabinetry so that you can open all doors and drawers.

 

Wakefield – Mussel & Light Oak | Ream Interiors

What is the ideal layout for a kitchen?

The ideal kitchen layout ultimately depends on your home and lifestyle. Optimising the space, you’re working with is key, and will help you create a layout that enables your daily kitchen activities to flow as smoothly as possible, in a beautiful format that works for you.

Ready to start planning your dream kitchen? Book a Design appointment with one of our approved STORI retailers to begin your journey.