Galley kitchen plans
12 kitchen layouts that maximize space |
If you are after galley kitchen ideas and inspiration, then you've come to the right place.
So much has changed in the way in which we design and use our kitchens over the last decade or so, but there is something reassuring in how the galley kitchen has adapted to the new-found sense of space in more contemporary kitchen ideas , and has thrived.
Galley kitchen ideas – turn this narrow layout into a dream space
Named after a ship’s kitchen, galley kitchens were originally associated with simplicity and tight spaces – there’s not much room for superfluous detail on the average ship. But the reason that galley kitchen layouts work is that they are ergonomically sound – it's easy to place everything so it is to hand.
1. Use galley kitchen layouts in an open plan kitchen
(Image credit: Future / Darren Cheung)
Open plan kitchens and spacious islands are partly to blame for wall units falling out of fashion – when you’ve got oodles of space to play with, it’s easy to see why you would want to keep the look open and save reaching overhead.
But wall units will always have a valid place in small kitchens and narrow rooms, where you can make the most of the height and still have usable worksurface.
Popular options include lift up doors and tall, sleek, flat-fronted doors in a striking material. But if you are really not a fan, consider open shelving or perhaps cubby holes if you need to make use of more height.
If you really want to make a statement in a galley kitchen, paint your units in an entirely different color to the rest of the room to make them sing out.
2. Create a modern interpretation of the galley kitchen
(Image credit: Future / Davide Lovatti)
In recent years, a third galley kitchen scenario has evolved, incorporating the galley layout into more modern kitchen ideas .
'Modern galley kitchens can be part of a much larger space, featuring a wall-hugging galley run with a long island running parallel, separating a living or dining area beyond,' explains Paul O’Brien, director of Kitchens International.
Although following the double galley footprint, it feels different as it is a lighter, more open and more sociable space.
3. Declutter with the right storage
(Image credit: Future / Davide Lovatti)
Good kitchen storage ideas are perhaps the most important element to consider when planning a galley kitchen.
Choose a scheme that includes plenty of storage, and if wall units aren’t possible in all areas, go for an abundance of floor units with drawers.
Also, natural light is key in helping to create space, so if possible include a window and door in your galley kitchen. A neutral color scheme in all areas will help to give the feeling of space.
Simple kitchen color schemes don't have to mean all-white designs though. Here, a tonal palette of subtle blues, grays and taupes blend beautifully to create a stylish gray kitchen .
4. Keep it open and bright
(Image credit: Future / Paul Raeside)
Galley kitchens have a tendency to look small and cluttered, but there is one way to negate this issue.
Give small kitchen layouts the illusion of space by going for shelves rather than wall units.
Keep them the same color as the rest of the cabinetry below for a seamless look, and have fun displaying colorful glass bottles, storage containers and too-pretty-to-hide-away teapots.
5. Trick the eye with light, color and minimal cabinetry
(Image credit: Future / Polly Eltes)
A galley kitchen layout is particularly suited to more compact spaces, as it ensures you have the worksurfaces and appliances you need while still providing essential storage for small kitchens .
The trick is to make the space work for you – make it look bigger by using light colors and reflective surfaces.
'Try not to have tall units on both sides in double galley kitchens, as it will become overbearing,' advises Tim Higham of Higham Furniture. 'If possible, try to avoid wall cabinets on one side, opting for open shelving where feasible. This will help to make the space feel larger.
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6. Work a narrow room
(Image credit: Future / Jonathan Gooch)
To make the most of a tall, narrow kitchen, use a mixture of wall cabinets, open shelving, base cabinets and drawers to vary your design and keep the outlook as open as possible.
Make sure you have enough room to move around the kitchen easily without bumping into other people; check there is enough space between opposite runs of units to open drawers, cupboards and appliances, and if it’s a bit of a squeeze consider reduced depth cabinets.
And last, but certainly not least, it’s essential to get the lighting right, especially in a narrow room. This really has to be planned at the start of the project.
Overhead natural light is always a bonus – if you are planning a kitchen extension, think about where you can position skylights.
(Image credit: Future / Alistair Nicholls)
A single run is kitchen design as its most essential.
If you only have a single run – one row – of cabinets, worktop space may be limited, so it makes sense to create different zones for food preparation, serving and cleaning up, often divided by the key points of hob, sink and refrigerator.
Whatever the size of your room, try to keep the mix of colors and/or textures to two or possibly three – that includes the walls, floor and ceilings as well as the cabinets.
It is cheaper to change the walls five years on than it will be to buy and install new cabinets – so if you’re not sure, neutral kitchen cabinet colors may be the best option.
8. Work a galley layout into a large kitchen
(Image credit: Future / Davide Lovatti)
The galley layout can work just wonderfully in a large kitchen.
The presence of two runs of units provides an architectural frame to a dining table or kitchen island in the centre, while in open plan areas an island or run of units provides the cut-off between living and cooking zones.
Introduce a small dining area into galley kitchens by opting for a compact dining table, which can be pushed against an unused wall.
9. Light up small galley kitchens
(Image credit: Future / Davide Lovatti)
Kitchen lighting ideas can make or break both the aesthetics and function of a galley kitchen.
'Keep galley kitchens as uncomplicated as possible – a simple layout and cleverly placed lighting will completely reinvent the space,' says Naomi Dean, furniture and showroom designer at Harvey Jones.
'Opt for worktop spot-lights, that will not only brighten your workspace but will illuminate the rest of the area. This will instantly brighten your kitchen and add the effect of more space.'
10. Opt for handleless cabinetry
(Image credit: Future / James Merrell)
To make the most of available space without overwhelming a compact open plan room, consider a kitchen with handleless doors. Technological advances in push-open and close doors means that it has become possible to dispense with handles in both wall and base cabinets.
Stone or wood floors are also a practical solution for galley kitchens that will help to create a layered, texturized effect.
11. Keep cabinets at eye-level
(Image credit: Alexandria Hall)
Keeping walls cabinet-free at eye-level can make a galley kitchen appear wider.
It’s also more comfortable to use kitchen countertops without cabinets looming above, so you won’t waste an inch of prep space. Position any tall storage required, e.g. fridge-freezers or larders, at the entrance to the room and you’ll naturally look past them.
‘We deliberately avoided upper cabinetry to avoid closing in the airiness of the room. It also gives the original ceiling cornicing and architraves more breathing space,’ explains designer Jack Trench. ‘The base units are deeper than standard to maximize storage and counter space.’
12. Freshen up your color scheme
(Image credit: Paul Craig)
‘Using pale colors in a long, narrow kitchen is a great way to open up the room and helps to reflect and diffuse the available natural light,’ says Mark Mills, managing director of Mereway.
Blues with yellow or grey undertones are ideal; red undertones will take you towards purple, which is more moody than upbeat. Think sky blue, duck egg and soft teal.
Polished countertops and kitchen backsplashes ideas, again in pale tones, also boast light-reflecting powers. Make the flooring your darkest choice and go for a warm white on walls and ceiling. This graduation from dark to light is an established way to square-up elongated rooms.
What can I do with a galley kitchen?
Perhaps you're thinking, what can I do with a gallery kitchen? Well, galley kitchen ideas are designed to be both compact and ultra-efficient, maximizing every inch of space for both storage and preparation. Named after the space-efficient ship's kitchen, this popular linear layout is designed to work with ergonomic ease.
Professional kitchens also follow a similar linear plan, with lines of ranges or hobs divided into specific stations for the preparation of different types of dishes.
Where there is room for a parallel run of units – a double galley – you can introduce the classic work triangle, arranging the key task zones of fridge, cooker and sink in this pattern to cut down on the footwork between them.
This is not only successful in narrow rooms that have enough width to take two rows of units, its exactly the format that is so popular in open plan spaces, with a long island providing the second leg, often creating a sociable casual seating area and a natural boundary for the kitchen space at the same time.
How do you maximize a galley kitchen?
To maximize galley kitchens you simply need smart ideas. A good kitchen designer will be able to come up with solutions for the trickiest of spaces but if you feel you want to explore the room’s potential further, and are perhaps considering structural work, it is worth consulting an interior designer or architect.
In double galley kitchens, storage ‘walls’ or ‘banks’ are a great solution for both open plan and closed schemes, by giving over the whole wall to a combination of storage and appliances.
Storage can be organised in pull-out larders or increasingly popular pantry ideas – both have narrow shelving which makes products easily visible.
A mix of both drawers and cupboards can serve you well in any kitchen, and can be designed in such a way that any handles and all the cabinetry lines align.
Drawers are great for pots, pans, chinaware and ingredients, as you can pack a lot into the space and still access it easily. Fitting drawers under the hob also puts the maximum range of utensils, dishes and ingredients such as herbs to hand.
Cupboards excel at hiding larger pieces of kit, including food mixers and perhaps even a trusty countertop microwave.
11 Galley Kitchen Layout Ideas & Design Tips
Design by deVOL Kitchens
A long and narrow kitchen configuration with a central walkway that has cabinetry, countertops, and appliances built along one or both walls, the galley kitchen is often found in older city apartments and historic homes. While it might feel dated and cramped to people used to open plan kitchens, the galley kitchen is a space-saving classic that appeals to those who enjoy having a self-contained room for meal prep, with the added benefit of keeping kitchen mess out of sight from the main living space.
Check out these tips for designing a comfortable and efficient layout for a galley-style kitchen, or for optimizing the one that you already have.
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01 of 11
Add Cafe-Style Seating
Design by deVOL Kitchens
Many galley kitchens have a window at the far end to let in natural light and air. If you've got the space, adding a place to sit and have a cup of coffee, or to take a load off while performing meal prep will make it more comfortable and functional. In this small galley-style kitchen in a Georgian style apartment in Bath, England, designed by deVOL Kitchens, a small cafe-style breakfast bar is built right next to the window. In a single galley kitchen, consider installing a fold-out wall-mounted table.
In a larger double galley kitchen, try a small bistro table and chairs. -
02 of 11
Follow the Architecture
Design by JRS ID / Photo by Lepere Studio 
Interior designer Jessica Risko Smith of JRS ID followed the natural curve of a bank of bay windows on one side of this galley-style kitchen with custom built-in cabinetry that hugs the space's irregular curves and creates a natural home for a sink and dishwasher, while maximizing every inch of space. Open shelving high up near the ceiling provides added storage. The kitchen is accessed by a wide case opening that feeds into the adjacent dining room for ease of movement.
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03 of 11
Skip the Uppers
Design by Julian Porcino
In this spacious California galley kitchen from real estate agent and interior designer Julian Porcino, a neutral palette mixed with natural wood and industrial touches creates a streamlined look. A pair of windows, a glass double door leading to the outside, and bright white walls and ceiling paint keeps the galley kitchen feeling light and bright.
Apart from a floor-to-ceiling block of cabinetry built to house the refrigerator and provide extra storage, upper cabinetry was omitted to preserve a feeling of openness. -
04 of 11
Install Open Shelving
Design by deVOL Kitchens
A cafe-style seating area by the window in this galley style kitchen designed by deVOL Kitchens is a cozy spot for meals, reading, or meal prep. The designers took advantage of the space above the bar-style counter to hang some open shelving to store everyday essentials. A glass framed picture leaning up against the wall acts as a de facto mirror, reflecting the view from the adjacent window. If you want to enhance the effect and don't need the extra storage, hang a vintage mirror above the bar instead. If you don't want to stare at yourself while you eat, hang the mirror so the bottom edge is just above eye level when seated.
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05 of 11
Incorporate Peekaboo Windows
Design by Maite Granda
Interior designer Maite Granda carved an efficient galley kitchen into a sprawling Florida home that is partially divided off from the main living space with peekaboo shelving and long, narrow windows above the sink and high up near the ceiling above the cabinets to let in natural light.
If you don't have the option of installing windows in your galley kitchen, try a mirrored backsplash instead. -
06 of 11
Go Dark
Design by deVOL Kitchens
In this streamlined and contemporary double galley style kitchen designed by Sebastian Cox for deVOL Kitchens, black wood cabinetry with a Shou Sugi Ban aesthetic adds depth and contrast against the pale walls and flooring. The room's abundance of natural light keeps the dark wood from feeling heavy.
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07 of 11
Dress It in Black and White
Design by Cathie Hong Interiors / Photo by Amber Thrane
In this modern galley-style San Diego, CA, kitchen from interior designer Cathie Hong of Cathie Hong Interiors, black lower cabinets on both sides of the wide kitchen add a grounding element. Bright white walls, ceilings, and naked windows keep it light and bright. A simple gray tile floor, stainless steel appliances, and bronze accents complete the clean design.
A single pot railing fills a blank space on the wall while providing a convenient place to hang everyday items, but you could also swap that out for a large-scale photograph or piece of art. -
08 of 11
Keep It Light
Design by deVOL Kitchens
While having adequate storage is always a bonus, there is no need to add more than you need, which will only encourage you to accumulate more stuff that you probably don't need. In this generously proportioned galley kitchen design by deVOL Kitchens, appliances, cabinetry, and countertops are confined to one wall, leaving space for a large dining table and chairs on the other. The glass table has a light profile that keeps the focus on the garden view.
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09 of 11
Add an Interior Window
Design by deVOL Kitchens
In this galley kitchen design by deVOL Kitchens, an atelier-style interior window with black metal framing over the sink allows natural light from the entryway on the other side to stream in and creates a sense of openness both in the kitchen and in the adjacent hallway.
The interior window also reflects the natural light streaming in from the large window at the far end of the kitchen, making the relatively small and contained space feel more expansive. -
10 of 11
Preserve Original Features
Design by Julian Porcino
This adobe-style home and Los Angeles historical landmark built in 1922 from estate agent and interior designer Julian Porcino features a carefully updated galley-style kitchen that maintains the original character of the home. Copper pendant lighting, a hammered copper farmhouse sink, and black stone countertops complement and keep the focus on original architectural details like warm dark stained beams and window casings. The kitchen island accommodates the oven and stovetop, while bar seating creates an updated feel.
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11 of 11
Use a Soft Palette
Design by deVOL Kitchens
In this galley kitchen designed by deVOL Kitchens, a large cased opening allows natural light from the adjacent room to flow in.
To maximize space, the designers ran cabinetry and a built-in hood vent all the way up to the ceiling. A soft palette of off white, mint green, and natural wood keeps it feeling light and airy.
Fourteen compact galley kitchens - Decor Design
In our latest lookbook, we've rounded up 14 galley designs from architects and designers who create compact and efficient kitchens.
The galley kitchen consists of two parallel rows of blocks separated by a walkway. It is named after the cooking area on ships, which are traditionally narrow, cramped spaces called galleys.
Galley layouts are often found in space-constrained environments as they offer a higher proportion of storage and preparation surfaces compared to circulation space, or when the kitchen area is long and narrow.
They are also efficient as the chef can quickly and easily switch between tasks.
This is one of the most popular kitchen layouts. The basic layout of the galley can be extended by adding an island between two rows of units.
This is the latest review in our Dezeen Lookbooks series, providing visual inspiration for the home. Previous kitchen-related articles include compact kitchens, bar counters, terrazzo kitchens, and island kitchens.
Sasha, France by SABO Project
The kitchen in this Parisian apartment is a hybrid of two popular layouts: part galley and part single wall.
The counter runs the full length of the kitchen-dining room and has a galley at one end where a wall-mounted oven and refrigerator are placed at full height. The entire kitchen is furnished with birch plywood furniture.
Learn more about Sasha ›
House in red concrete, Norway, Sanden + Hodnekvam Arkitekter
Rough concrete flooring paired with pine paneling and cabinetry in this classic galley kitchen in Norway.
Galley kitchens typically place the sink in front of a window and the hob on the windowless side, but here the arrangement has been reversed, with spectacular mountain views that distract anyone working with the stove.
Walls clad in pine paneling or cement clad to match the floor.
Find out more about the red concrete house ›
Apartment 308 S Brazil by Bloco Arquitetos
This apartment in Brasilia was built in the 1960s by architect Lucio Costa and landscape architect Burle Marx. It has been renovated with an open floor plan that reveals its concrete structure.
The kitchen is organized at the front of the house and combines white cabinetry with granite worktops. A row of cabinets facing the dining area serves as a breakfast bar.
Find out more about 308 S Apartment ›
Apartment in the Barbican, UK by John Pawson
A minimalist overhaul of this two-room apartment on the brutalist Barbican estate in London has led designer John Pawson to replace the original maze-like plan with a geometric, disrupted plan.
This includes a galley kitchen leading to a hallway leading to a small dining area.
Full-length cabinets without handles hide appliances and belongings along one wall.
The other has a small countertop with a sink and hob, and one side has more full-sized drawers.
Find out more about the Barbican apartment ›
Yurikago House, Spain, Masaqui
The fitted kitchen on the ground floor of the multi-level Yurikago House features gray mottled terrazzo countertops and terracotta floor tiles.
End wall provides shelves on either side of a full size unit that houses a refrigerator/freezer.
Learn more about Yurikago House ›
Kasa House, Japan by Katsutoshi Sasaki + Associates
This quirky cruciform home by Katsutoshi Sasaki + Associates in Kariya, Japan features an equally quirky cuisine.
The galley occupies one arm of the cross and consists of a stainless steel worktop with a large built-in sink on one side and wooden cabinets on the other.
The wall behind the sink is open to provide a service hatch for a small dining area outside.
Learn more about Kasa House ›
La Carmina, Spain, Studio RÄS
The unusual compact layout of this remodeled apartment in Barcelona by Studio RÄS is a square structure built into a living space that includes a bathroom and storage room.
The gap between the cube and the inner wall was used to accommodate a compact galley kitchen, which is separated from the dining area by a bathroom.
The asymmetrical kitchen has one polished granite counter that is split in height to allow a small window to open inwards. The apron is lined with mosaic tiles, as is the floor.
Another table has a pine surface and an apron.
Find out more about La Carmina ›
Valencia Townhouse, Spain, DG Arquitecto Valencia
The narrow aisle in this Valencian townhouse is not wide enough even for a full galley kitchen. Instead, one series of units is smaller than usual and serves as a bar counter.
Marble tops, mosaic floor tiles.
Find out more about the townhouse in Valencia ›
Apartment 27A, Hong Kong Design Eight Five Two
Smart storage solutions, hidden cabinetry and bespoke furniture fill this kitchen in Hong Kong's Kowloon Bay area.
Muted green covers the under-worktop cabinets, while white wall cabinets and above-ground spaces provide more storage space.
Find out more about Flat 27A ›
Flat 17.6 sq. M., Taiwan, courtesy of A Little Design.
This former piano studio in Taipei covers only 17.6 square meters and is 3.4 meters high.
The kitchen is located next to the hall, between two load-bearing walls. It's very handy in its tiny body, with compartments that reach to the ceiling on both sides, open shelving, and even a washing machine. On one side, a stand protrudes below, on which a small electric stove can be placed.
Find out more about the 17.6 sq. M ›
Shakespeare Tower Apartment, UK by Takero Shimazaki Architects
Also located on London's Barbican Estate, this apartment combines brutality with elegant Japanese details.
The interior is mostly wood, with wood paneling and grating used as screens to partially hide the kitchen.
The concrete ceiling was left exposed and contrasted with the wooden furniture, while stainless steel was used for all work surfaces.
The floors are decorated with black glazed subway tiles.
Learn more about the apartment in the Shakespeare Tower ›
Galla House, Spain, by Kavaa.
This kitchen, designed by the architectural studio Cavaa, uses elements of color from other parts of the house.
The studio has equipped the kitchen behind a half-wall glass partition that stretches up to the ceiling and visually connects the kitchen with the living area.
The furniture was finished in light gray, which connects the storage solutions with the bluish-gray terrazzo floor that zones the space.
Learn more about Galla House ›
RF Apartment, Brazil by SuperLimão
Located in the modernist Saint Honoré building in São Paulo, designed by Brazilian architect Artacho Jurado, this kitchen takes on an industrial look and combines it with vibrant colors .
Large blue glazed tiles cover the floor, reflecting light across the space. Terracotta paint was applied to the ceiling and strip lighting, and electrical wiring around the concrete walls was painted a pale blue.
Learn more about RF Apartment ›
Portico House, Brazil by Bloco Arquitetos
The open-plan kitchen at this Bloco Arquitetos home in Brasilia features a mixed palette of wood, terracotta and concrete.
A key design element is the poured concrete countertop, which separates the kitchen from the living and dining area and turns the support column into a decorative element.
The counter serves as a breakfast bar and offers limited storage space in low cabinets.
The other side of the kitchen is more traditional, with a wooden front along one wall and a counter and backsplash in mottled gray cladding.
Learn more about Portico House ›
This is the latest in our series of lookbooks inspired by carefully selected visual inspiration from the Dezeen Image Archive. For more inspiration, check out previous lookbooks showing quiet bedrooms, wallpapered interiors and colorful kitchens.
How to plan the perfect kitchen | Bosch
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Planning tips for your new kitchen from the pros.
Learn how to start planning your kitchen in just six easy steps. The Bosch Kitchen Planning Guide gives you helpful tips on everything from kitchen layout and design to arranging the placement of kitchen appliances. Bosch is happy to be your assistant in this process.
Step 1: Explore different design options for your kitchen.
Find inspiration first! Gather different options for organizing the kitchen space together. Here's where to start:
- Look: Which kitchen do you prefer: modern, minimalist, classic or mid-century style?
- Kitchen colors: Think about the color scheme of your future kitchen.
- Kitchen Cabinet Organization Ideas: Gather ideas for kitchen cabinet doors and drawer handles, choose materials to match your style.
- Worktop ideas: solid wood, stone, concrete, marble, composite materials? Try to find a durable material for your work surface (pro tip: darker materials show less scratches).
- Back panel design ideas: fine tiles, mosaics or classic subway tiles?
Explore different design options for your kitchen
Essential in every kitchen.
Essential items for every kitchen.
- Comfort. Since you will spend a lot of time in the kitchen, pay attention to creating comfort in this corner of your apartment. We advise you to use warm colors, find comfortable seats.
- Individual accents. Put some eye-catching memorabilia in your kitchen that you enjoy looking at while you cook.
- High quality technology. Invest in a good fridge, hob and oven and sink (ideally in the golden triangle).
- Sufficient electrical outlets. Ideal for preparing complex dishes or for collaborative prep work.
- Special space for your favorite cookbooks. Keep your favorite recipes close at hand.
- Fresh herbs or herb garden on the windowsill. Bring nature into your kitchen.
- The same "box for different stuff." Let's admit to ourselves and to each other that such a box is necessary.
- Durable, easy to clean surfaces. Elements such as built-in kitchen appliances, frameless cabinets, sink and countertop are not only elegant, but also make cleaning easier.
- Containers for collected waste. Carefully consider where in your kitchen you will collect different types of recyclables: paper, plastic, glass, cans.
- Something that attracts attention. Choose an element in your kitchen that will grab the eye of anyone who comes in, whether it's an impressive stove, a cozy breakfast nook, a glamorous chandelier or a family photo.
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Make your space bright and memorable.
How to achieve this?
- Reflective surfaces.
Glossy surfaces and stainless steel kitchen appliances will reflect light and make the kitchen space visually larger. - Light colors in the kitchen. Bright colors add volume. This is especially noticeable in small spaces. Light and pastel colors make your space look bigger.
- Natural light. The kitchen should be well lit. It is best to place the lamps directly above your head or arrange windows in the ceiling in the room.
- Add extra lighting. It is required above the kitchen island and below the kitchen cabinets. Lighting can also be built into the hood.
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Step 2: What do I need for my kitchen?
Now think about your needs and priorities. This will help you narrow down your options and focus on what's right for you. This is a very smart approach when planning an inexpensive kitchen.
Do you have a very small kitchen? Then go to the Small Kitchen Appliance Models section on how to make the most of your space.
Once you have identified all the elements of your dream kitchen, you are ready to visit the studio kitchen. You can also continue to choose your own option for arranging the kitchen.
Don't forget to review your kitchen planning checklist.
What you need to know before ordering a new kitchen?
Important questions for every kitchen planner.
- Who will use your kitchen?
A U-shaped kitchen is best suited for situations where the kitchen will be mostly run by one person. For large families and shared cooking, you can choose the open kitchen option with different cooking areas. Or even a kitchen island. Customize your kitchen to suit your needs with comfortable countertop heights and cupboards that make it easy to reach everything you need. - What are your priorities?
Avid cooks must have enough space to work, as well as quality kitchen utensils. If you love trying new recipes, plan enough space for all the small kitchen appliances you might need.
If you love baking, consider where you will store all your baking supplies and molds. Or do you like to receive guests? Then consider an open plan kitchen with a place to gather guests. - Do you have a limited budget?
If so, what can't you do without in your kitchen? If you are on a budget, consider package solutions. They will help you choose the best quality kitchen in a certain style. - What kind of food do you usually buy?
If you shop once a week, buy a large fridge freezer. If space permits, organize a large pantry in the kitchen and be sure to leave room for fresh food, such as tomatoes, that cannot be stored in the refrigerator. - Which style and layout suits you best?
Before you visit the kitchen studio, collect different ideas for kitchen design and explore options for the location of its individual areas. This preparation will speed up the selection process. - What have you always wanted in your kitchen?
Have you been dreaming of a large open kitchen, a kitchen with an island or a breakfast area? Do you want to organize a small relaxation area or have a built-in coffee machine? Think about what makes your kitchen perfect and incorporate all of these elements into your new kitchen.
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Step 3: Plan your kitchen area.
The kitchen plan contains all the aspects you need to plan your space. Sketch a kitchen plan yourself or use the appropriate software. Here are the basic steps:
- Take the following measurements:
- Kitchen wall length, width, height
- Position and dimensions of doors and windows
- Measurements for kitchen cabinets
- Measurements for a kitchen island if you are planning a kitchen with an island
- Locate the ventilation duct for the hood.
- Locate the plumbing and electrical outlets.
You are now ready to create the layout of the kitchen unit and basic kitchen appliances.
Step 4: Various zone placement options.
In this gallery you will find examples of zoning in the kitchen.
When gathering kitchen layout ideas, start with high-traffic areas - the golden triangle between the sink, refrigerator and stove.
Some parts of your work area are determined by the space you have available, the rest of the areas are up to you.
Which type of kitchen layout suits you? Below is a brief overview of the advantages and disadvantages of various kitchen layouts.
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Kitchen layout with island.
Next kitchen type: Kitchen in galley style.
Islands can be used in a variety of kitchen layouts, from open kitchens to L-shaped kitchens and single wall kitchens.
- Kitchens with islands have a modern and cozy look.
- Kitchen islands help to effectively organize the cooking process and various types of recreation and entertainment.
- Pro tip: In open kitchens, every extra decibel counts. So always look for the quietest dishwashers and hoods in these kitchens.
- Choose a hood powerful enough to cover the entire kitchen area.
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Galley kitchen layout.
Next kitchen type: Small L-shaped kitchen.
Two walls, one solution: The kitchen layout uses two adjoining walls to maximize storage space in a small space.
- Ideal for rooms with a window on one side and a door opposite.
- When used in open plan kitchens, a second work surface can separate the kitchen from other living areas.
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L-shaped kitchen layout.
Next type of kitchen: Single wall kitchen.
This popular classic layout has two walls perpendicular to each other.
- L-shaped kitchens are among the most efficient kitchen layouts - with a built-in triangular work area for added efficiency.
- Universal layout can be adapted to kitchens of any size.
- An excellent option for a kitchen-dining room with a small table and chairs.
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Single wall kitchen.
Next type of kitchen: U-shaped kitchen.
Stylish single-walled kitchen on one side of the room, great for small spaces.
- Stylish option for larger kitchens.
- Also great for small kitchens.
- If a dining table or living room furniture is installed in the kitchen, then it will be possible to organize a dining area in it.
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U-shaped kitchen layout.
Next kitchen type: Small kitchens.
A U-shaped kitchen is usually created for one housewife.
- The efficient kitchen layout guarantees plenty of storage space.
- This design is perfect for small spaces as well as large professional kitchens.
- Organize an island in this kitchen and it will give you even more choice.
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Small kitchen layouts.
Bigger isn't always better: small kitchens can be quite functional.
- Small kitchens come in a variety of layouts, from single wall designs to galley style kitchens.
- Some options include small appliances or multifunctional compact kitchen units.
- Light colors, floating shelves and bright decor will add volume to the space.
Ready for even more inspiration? Check out our Small Kitchen Design Ideas section.
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- Ideas for small kitchens
Step 5: Consider storage areas for kitchen utensils.
- Places for storage of kitchen utensils should be organized near the oven and sink.
- You need quick and easy access to small kitchen utensils, pans and baked goods.
- Plan a large enough work surface with drawers and storage areas. This will allow you to properly organize your workflows.
- The kitchen should be light: if the kitchen has a window, the upper cabinets should not block the light.
A thoughtful approach to organizing the storage of kitchen utensils is essential from the very beginning. There are many such areas throughout the kitchen, from the obvious option with kitchen cabinets and a multifunctional island to a special wall that organizes a large storage area for everything you need.
Sometimes it's just not possible to fit everything you need in a certain space, so it's important to prioritize.
Kitchen storage ideas
Maximize the storage space in your kitchen.
How can I add extra storage space in my kitchen?
- Use "dead corners" (for example, install rotating shelves in the lower kitchen cabinets).
- Install kitchen cabinets up to the ceiling in the kitchen.
- Place shelves behind kitchen drawers to store small items.
- Place storage baskets on top of kitchen cabinets.
- Place the waste bin and waste container in the bottom drawers of the kitchen unit.
- Hang extra shelves on the wall to keep your work surfaces clean.
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Tips for storing pots and pans.
Where to store pots and pans in the kitchen?
- On top of the hanging shelf.
- On the wall above the hob or stove.
- In the lower kitchen drawers.
- In the kitchen island storage area.
- Pantry (most infrequently used pots and casseroles only).
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Cleaning kitchen cabinets.
How to organize the space in kitchen cabinets?
Organize your kitchen cabinets according to your habits and needs.
- For each kitchen cabinet, identify a separate category of kitchen utensils: crockery, cutlery, pots and pans, preserves, etc.
- Keep all frequently used kitchen utensils in a place where they can be easily reached.
- Place large kitchen utensils, knives and other equipment for washing and preparing food in kitchen cabinets next to the stove and sink.
- Place coffee filters, measuring spoons, coffee beans and all the other accessories you need to make a great cup of coffee next to the coffee maker.
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What about the space under the sink?
What can be put under the sink?
The cupboard under the sink can accommodate everything you need, we recommend putting the most frequently used accessories there:
- Dishwasher tablets.
- Long brushes for cleaning water bottles and vases.
- Extra jaws.
- Garbage bags.
- Collectable recyclables.
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Step 6: Where should all the necessary kitchen utensils be placed?
When considering the placement of kitchen appliances, always consider your “work triangle”, the working area in the kitchen. It is most efficient to place everything you need along the edges of this triangle.
If you're using a flat-triangle work area (like a single-walled kitchen), add an extra sink and free up space for multiple cooks.
Other kitchen appliance placement tips:
- Hob tips
- Hood Tips
- Oven Tips
- Refrigerator Tips
- Dishwasher Tips
- Laundry Corner Tips
How long does it take to plan and build a kitchen? Every project is different and there are many things to consider when designing a kitchen. Start by planning at home, this will help you avoid the most serious mistakes. First of all, study the kitchen planning checklist.
Download checklist
Why do we recommend you choose kitchen appliances from Bosch? Discover the many reasons for this choice.
Kitchen appliances from Bosch look great in both custom-designed kitchens and prefabricated kitchens. We offer you a design that will remain popular at all times, and technologies with outstanding performance.
