Blog

4 Popular Kitchen Layouts

The kitchen has come a long way baby!

When I was growing up, kitchens were not a place you,  let alone anyone else, wanted to hang out. Today’s kitchen, on the other hand, is considered the heart of the home where people gather around for delicious food and great conversation.

If you’re thinking about remodeling your kitchen, you’re most likely thinking about changing the layout. Here are four popular kitchen layouts to consider:

U-shaped – This type of layout involves 3 walls connecting in the shape of a U with workspace on all three walls.

Image source: Dura Supreme

PROS

• No through traffic – More than one person can work in the kitchen at a time.
• Lots of counter space – 2 of the 3 walls can be devoted to countertops.
• More walls equals more storage – Just by virtue of the fact that you’re working with 3 walls, you can maximize your storage.

CONS

• Access to corner cabinets – Will need to install accessories to make it easier to access lower corner cabinets.
• Not efficient for kitchens of a certain size – Larger kitchens will definitely need an island, while smaller kitchens will feel too cramped.
• Not conducive for an open floor plan – Can feel isolating.

L-shaped – This type of layout involves 2 adjacent walls connecting in the shape of an L with workspace on both walls.

Image Source: Dura Supreme

PROS

• Open – There’s virtually nothing to get in the way.
• Easy to add an island – If you need more workspace or storage.

CONS

• Not efficient if too long – A width that’s too wide will make meal prep and cooking a challenge.
• Corner base cabinet will be hard to reach. So definitely install accessories to make it easier to do so.

Galley – This type of layout typically involves 2 walls facing each other.

Image Source: Dura Supreme

PROS

• Simple layout – Everything is within arm’s reach (close by).
• Ideal for long and narrow spaces – Don’t take up too much space.

CONS

• Small – Limited storage options.
• Less countertop space – So, you’ll most likely need to create an additional work space for food preparation and cooking with a moveable island.
• Feel cramped – Traffic flows right through the middle of the kitchen.

Kitchens with Islands – This type of layout involves an island to complement the utility of the space.

Image Source: House Building Tips

PROS

• Provides extra counter or storage space – Who doesn’t need that for all of your pots and pans.
• Can be designed with seating in mind – Keeps the conversation close by.

CONS

• Increases project cost – Additional cabinets and more countertop to purchase, plus electrical and plumbing if you choose to have the island plumbed and hard-wired.
• Bulky – Can close off kitchen from the rest of your home.

Whichever kitchen lay out you decided to go with, you’ll sit in your new kitchen and smile with glee like the woman in the featured image.