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Great kitchen layout


6 Best Kitchen Layout Ideas for Your Renovation – Vevano

By Jessica Earley

The Kitchen Work Triangle

Before we get into the specific layouts available, it’s important to understand the purpose and function of the kitchen work triangle.

The kitchen work triangle is formed by the three main work areas of your kitchen–the food preparation zone (your counters or fridge), the washing zone (sink or dishwasher), and the cooking zone (stovetop or oven). Essentially, when your kitchen is finished, you should be able to draw metaphorical lines between the zones in the form of a triangle.

The work triangle is all about efficiency. Each of the three zones should be no more than three or four feet from each other so you can move easily from one zone to another in just a few steps.

The most important part of the work triangle is the relationship between the sink and the stovetop. We recommend keeping them in the same stretch of counter so you can easily bounce between your meal and the dishes while you cook.

Though they aren’t required in a kitchen layout, the work triangle will almost always naturally occur as you design your space. Paying close attention to your work triangle will help increase efficiency and better enjoy any kitchen layout you choose.

Now that you’ve considered the practicality of implementing the work triangle into your kitchen, it’s time to choose the right layout! No matter the size of the space you have to work with, you will find the right design for your kitchen with one of these 6 common kitchen layouts.

1. U-Shaped Kitchen Layout

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L-shaped kitchens are very similar to U-shaped kitchens, except that they are arranged in an L-shape and have cabinets and appliances installed along two walls instead of three.

L-shaped kitchens are great for maximizing efficiency with the work triangle. Because working stations are set up on just two walls, it's easy to move between working stations in just a few steps.

Since L-shaped kitchens are usually tucked into corners where walls meet at a 90-degree angle, they have two open ends for easy entrances and exits. This is great for busy families or entertaining guests–it’s unlikely that you will get in each other's way!

Open plan living is a popular homestyle right now, and L-shaped kitchens fit perfectly in this concept. Arranged along only two walls, L-shaped kitchens naturally open into the surrounding rooms. Ideally, your kitchen will open into either the dining room or living room.

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3.

Island Kitchen Layout

If you're looking for a kitchen with ample storage and counter space, an island kitchen is the best choice! Suited especially for large kitchens, island kitchens are typically arranged in a U-shape with a freestanding section of counterspace (also known as an island) in the middle of your kitchen.

Kitchen islands are ideal for adding counter space and storage. Most islands include base cabinets on one side to store kitchen essentials. On the other, many islands have extended countertops to accommodate seating. Add just a few stools and you will have a great casual dining space!

In addition to installing a kitchen sink against a wall, some homeowners choose to install a sink in their island instead. You can also put your cooking station in your island by installing a flat stove stop in it.

Whether your island becomes a washing zone, a prep zone, or a cooking zone, you can create an efficient working triangle very easily in an island kitchen. You will want to make sure there is at least 3 feet of clearance on all sides of your island to prevent crowding and inefficient traffic flow.

Of all the kitchen layouts, island kitchens are the best for socializing. If you have a large family or love entertaining, this may be the best layout for you!

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4. Peninsula Kitchen Layout

Peninsula kitchens are popular because they have some of the same functional properties as an island kitchen but are better suited for smaller spaces.

Like an island kitchen, peninsula kitchens feature an additional worktop, but it’s attached to the wall instead of standing in the middle of the kitchen. This saves space because you don’t need the 3 feet of clearance on one end.

Peninsula kitchens create a U-shape, but differ from U-shaped kitchens because the third side is completely open and accessible from three sides. Usually, one side of the peninsula piece opens into another room.

The peninsula worktop usually includes base cabinets for extra storage. Like an island, you can extend the opposite side of the countertop to accommodate stools and create casual seating.

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5. Galley Kitchen Layout

Looking for an efficient use of space? A galley kitchen might be your best fit! This kitchen layout arranges counter tops and appliances on parallel walls with a walkway that opens into other rooms on both ends.

Galley kitchens eliminate space that is sometimes wasted with inconvenient corner cupboards. To maximize the efficiency of the work triangle, place the sink, dishwasher, and stove on the same wall with the fridge and additional counter space on the opposite wall.

A clear and ample walkway is critical for galley kitchens. Make sure there is at least four feet of space between the cabinets and appliances on each wall. Be careful to accommodate for open oven, fridge, or cabinet doors if possible, since they can block the walkway and prevent your family’s movement throughout the kitchen.

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6. Single-Wall or One Wall Kitchen Layout

In single-wall kitchens (also known as single run kitchens or one wall kitchen layouts), the counter space and appliances are arranged in a single line against one wall. This arrangement is great for small spaces when other kitchen layouts are impractical.

It’s recommended to have counter space on either side of each major appliance. Because less counter space is needed next to the fridge, it’s often placed at the end of the row in single-wall kitchens. Just be sure that the fridge door opens away from the wall!

The most important consideration to remember with this layout is the amount of storage you need. With only one wall to place cabinets, you will have to get more creative when storing all your kitchen items and food. Think vertical! Install cabinets that are floor to ceiling to make the best use of your wall space.

Open vs. Closed Kitchens

When renovating or designing a new kitchen, you will need to decide if you want it to be opened or closed.

Open kitchens are meant to have easy access and open into the dining or living room space in your home. In some concepts, the kitchen is part of a “great room,” which can encompass the dining space, living room, and kitchen in one completely open concept. This is great for homeowners who like to integrate the majority of their family’s activities into one common space.

The disadvantage is that open kitchens can make your home look cluttered and unkept if not cleaned regularly. Smells from food prep, cooking, or trash can more easily travel throughout the rest of your home.

In contrast, closed kitchens are kept completely separate from the rest of the home. For chefs who value their privacy, this type of kitchen can become a cooking or baking sanctuary! It also separates the mess and smells from the rest of your home.

Closed kitchens are more formal and may limit the amount of socialization you have while preparing meals and entertaining guests. They also have more limited openings, which can lead to traffic bottlenecks. It may also be more difficult to have multiple cooks in the kitchen at once.

Universal and Accessible Kitchen Design

You may be interested in universal and accessible kitchen design if you have a family member with a disability, are caring for elderly family members, or are planning ahead for staying in your home as you age.

The great thing is that universal kitchens follow the same principles of a standard kitchen so you can choose any layout you love and make adaptations as needed.

Here are some of the most basic changes to consider in your universal kitchen.

Which Layout is Best for Your Home? Questions You Should Ask Before You Choose

Now that you’ve learned all about the six most common kitchen layouts and tips adapting to special needs, it’s time to determine which layout will be best for your home. Here are some questions to answer that will help you narrow down your choice.

What Are 10x10 and 12x12 Kitchen Layouts?

As you design your kitchen, it’s likely that you will come across 10x10 and 12x12 kitchen layouts. The 10’x10’ layout is considered the standard dimensions of a medium-sized kitchen while the 12’x12’ layout is a standard large kitchen.

Most kitchens will require a designer and some customization to fit all the kitchen cabinetry you need, but 10x10 and 12x12 kitchen cabinet layouts can provide a rough estimate of the cost of cabinets for the size of your kitchen. These standard dimensions help customers can easily compare cabinet prices.

Renovating a 10x10 kitchen layout will typically cost between $10,000 and $25,000. Upgrading a 12x12 kitchen layout ranges from $14,000 to $36,000 for a full scale remodel.

Let Vevano Help With Your Kitchen Remodel

Still not sure which kitchen layout is best for your renovation? Get advice from our expert interior designers! Vevano Home designers help you avoid costly kitchen renovation mistakes while also ensuring you love your completed project.

The consultation is free, and when you order products from us, you get to deduct the cost from our design retainer, so the design service pays for itself until it’s free!

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(Image credit: Tom Howley )

Looking to remodel and need new kitchen layout ideas? This professional design advice will help you make the most of your kitchen floor space.  

Kitchens come in all shapes and sizes, and you can be spoilt for choice with kitchen layouts and formation options when starting out on a project. The key is to take things slowly, and think carefully about how you use and move within the space. 

Also consider how you see your family might use the room in the future. It may be all about food prep now. But down the line, it may need to double as place to finish homework, a 'teaching area' where your kids learn to bake, or a sophisticated entertaining spot.  

Practicality is key for kitchen ideas when it comes to the best kitchen layout, and the shape you select should be able not only to accommodate your lifestyle, but enhance it. We've got plenty of food for thought, so go ahead and dive into our layout options.

Kitchen layout ideas

Our guide will explore all the key kitchen layout ideas, but first, clue yourself up on the six types of kitchen layouts that will likely form the base of your space...

What are the six types of kitchen layouts?

There are six key kitchen layouts: 

1.

Let your habits dictate the layout

(Image credit: Harvey Jones)

'Every aspect of the kitchen, how it works and how it is used is based around the layout,' says Sally Hinks, kitchen designer at Harvey Jones. 'When starting to plan a kitchen, the first thing you must think about is how you're going to be using the space, as this will dictate what you need to include. Is your kitchen purely for cooking or will you be entertaining, too?

'Will the space be used as a working from home spot or will the kids be doing their homework in there? It's also important to look at the existing features of the room. In many cases, doors, thoroughfares and windows set the parameters of the layout out and guide suitable options. Many people like to situate their kitchen to make the most of a lovely view outside or to take center-stage in an open plan space, which can be a useful starting point.'

2. Think: practicality

(Image credit: Benjamin Johnston Design)

'The main thing to keep in mind during the layout planning process is practicality,' says Sally Hinks. 'Think carefully about which parts of the kitchen you're gong to be using the most from a cooking perspective and how easily you can move between them. Use the kitchen triangle method as a guide and focus on the refrigerator, sink and cooker as the core elements when mapping out your space.' 

For more guidance, see our exploration that answers the question, where should a refrigerator be placed? 

3. Use the galley layout for space efficiency

(Image credit: Future / Paul Raeside)

Galley kitchens are one of the most space-efficient layouts you can choose. They are ideal for keen cooks, and perfect for maximizing storage and work surface space in smaller kitchens. This super-efficient layout is ideal if you are looking for small kitchen ideas that maximize every inch of space.

Allison Lynch, of kitchen design company Roundhouse , says: 'A galley kitchen usually occupies a relatively small space – they are often a walkway between two rooms. An ideal length would be 3. 5 – 5m with space either side of the door opening to allow at least a standard depth countertop. 

'Although they tend to be quite small, they are very ergonomic spaces with everything usually within arms' reach – with, ideally, the sink one side and the hob on the other.' 

Placing these two important elements centrally within each run of units is the best approach, with the dishwasher on the sink side of the run and the refrigerator on the side of the hob.

4. Share your space with a U-shaped layout

(Image credit: Amanda Evans Interiors)

U-shaped kitchens are an ultra-practical option. They are comprised of countertops on three connecting sides, allowing plenty of room for cooking. 

It's one of the most efficient layouts to have in both small and open plan homes alike, and the easiest way to achieve the ergonomic triangle that is so often talked about in kitchen design – where your fridge, cooker and sink are all within easy reach of one another.

It also easily allows for two cooks in the kitchen at once for a team dinner-making effort.

Allison Lynch says: 'U-shaped kitchen ideas work best in spaces ideally from 3 – 3.5m, but remember that the bigger the space the more crossing the room you have to do.'

Larger kitchens can often accommodate the addition of a central island, too, like in this example by Amanda Evans Interiors . With plenty of room for cabinetry and built-in appliances around the edge, the island provides a casual seating area and additional preparation space.

5. Love your corners with an L-shaped layout

(Image credit: Davide Lovatti)

The most common layout is some sort of L-shape, with at least one straight run. The classic design uses two adjoining walls of a room to allow a continuous flow of worktops and cabinets. 

The central area is kept free, so you can enjoy a spacious feel or add an island for extra worktop space and storage.

'L-shaped kitchens are a classic, timeless design,' say the team at Magnet. 'And the open floor space it creates allows the kitchen to be accessible from any angle.'

6. Create distinct zones with an island layout

(Image credit: Davide Lovatti)

Large kitchens and big families can really benefit from utilizing kitchen island ideas to add extra storage and preparation space. 

Multi-use spaces are increasingly sought after, and an island can be used to prepare dinner while also keeping an eye on the kids, as well as doubling up as a socialising area, work space, or homework desk.

'The benefit of an island layout is that it is great for zoning in open plan areas, which is what most people opt for today,' says Roundhouse's Allison Lynch. 'It’s a good piece of social furniture and effectively creates two different spaces, one for cooking and one for prep, with one person at the island and the other at the worktop. 

'Another big benefit in an open plan space is that an island can be made to look more like a piece of furniture.

'An island allows free movement all the way around, and people can enter the space from different directions. It can feel less monolithic, a much lighter piece of furniture than a peninsula, and with judicious use of plinth lighting it can be made to look like it is floating.'

7. Use a peninsula to disrupt a thoroughfare

(Image credit: Future / Manolo Yllera)

A kitchen island is wonderful, but if it will create a natural passage through the cooking space from one area to another, such as from the hallway through the kitchen into a garden, kitchen peninsula ideas may be a better choice.

'Consider alternatives to a kitchen island, even if you have space,' advises Homes & Gardens' associate editor Busola Evans. 'A peninsula, for instance, can provide many of the benefits of an island without interrupting the cooking workflow.

8. Choose an L-shaped layout for a party kitchen

(Image credit: Marlaina Teich Designs/Patrick Cline)

If your kitchen tends to be the life and soul of the party, choose a layout that will accommodate abundant entertaining. The open nature of an L-shaped kitchen means lots of space for guests to gather in the opposite side of the kitchen to where the units are based. 

As demonstrated in this home with interior design by Marlaina Teich , it is also a great choice for kitchen diner ideas, and open plan spaces that merge into a living area. This kitchen boasts a dining area off one side and a living room off another – the L-shaped layout keeps the kitchen neatly tucked in one corner, while the added island provides connection to the other spaces. 

9. Consider appliances early in your layout plans

(Image credit: Harvey Jones)

'Another factor that will affect your kitchen layout is the type of appliances and tall cabinetry you want to incorporate,' says kitchen designer Sally Hinks. Tall cabinetry and appliances look strongest standing alone or on the end of a cabinet run, so this can dictate potential layouts during the initial stage.'

10. Make the most of a small space

(Image credit: Harvey Jones)

'When designing small kitchen layouts, choose your appliances wisely,' says kitchen designer Sally Hinks. 'Any large appliances such as washer dryers that can multi-task are worth considering. Furthermore, integrating appliances wherever possible will open up the space visually and create cleaner lines. Smaller appliances such as coffee makers and microwaves can be housed in cabinets to free up valuable countertop space, keep surfaces clear from bulky devices and create a more minimal aesthetic.'

11. Make the most of natural light in small kitchens

(Image credit: Emily J Followill/Beth Webb Interiors)

Galley kitchen styles may be great for small spaces and ergonomically sound for keen cooks, but they can have a reputation for being a little dark and pokey. To counter this predicament, be sure to make the most of any natural light coming into the space when planning a kitchen. 

In this example with interiors by Beth Webb , a window at the short end of the galley has been extended to stretch from floor to ceiling. The window on the right hand side is free from the constraints of upper level cupboards, meaning that light can travel freely into the rest of the kitchen.  

12. Create a ‘Chef’s Table’ experience with a long island 

(Image credit: Richard Felix-Ashman Design/Aaron Leitz)

For serious foodies, cooking and serving dinner is the main event, especially when entertaining guests with equally strong culinary inclinations. Upgrade your island’s seating area from a casual breakfast bar to a full-blown dining area, by choosing a larger-than-life island that can accommodate a dinner party. 

Bringing guests into the kitchen space can help create a unique ‘Chef’s Table’ experience, as demonstrated in this stunning kitchen in a bar conversion by Richard Felix-Ashman . A large kitchen for entertaining, it also hosts two dining tables for when you want to give a more intimate feeling to a gathering. 

13. Bring personality to an open-plan space

(Image credit: Future/Polly Eltes)

'Open-plan kitchens can easily feel disjointed if the different areas aren't carefully linked,' explains kitchen designer Sally Hinks. 'Kitchen islands and peninsulas are a good choice to bring the kitchen out into the room, while accommodating seating areas within an island is a great way of tying dining areas and kitchen spaces together.'

14. Keep kitchen layouts simple to enhance space

(Image credit: Ginny Macdonald/Sara Tramp)

'Using light kitchen color ideas and mirrored backsplashes will open up spaces,' says Allison Lynch. 'Keep things simple. In galley kitchens in particular, keep tall cupboards for dry food storage and the fridge to the ends of the room, and perhaps limited to one side but not both.

'Too many details will crowd the space – keep to simple clean lines and lose the clutter.'

15. Pick storage that's truly ergonomic

(Image credit: Neptune)

Never underestimate the importance of good kitchen storage ideas. Nerine Vacher, kitchen designer at Neptune Fulham in London, advises: 'Effective storage is one of the simplest ways to create a happy and homely kitchen.  

'By including a single piece of furniture, like our Suffolk larder (above), a bi-fold cabinet, or even an island, you can completely transform your kitchen, by creating more surface space and keeping clutter out of sight.'

H&G's Busola Evans adds: 'Ensure your bottom units are drawers rather than cabinets. Deep drawers are a more efficient use of space and give easier access to items at the back.'

16. Consider the second work triangle, too

(Image credit: Rikki Snyder)

'I've moved house seven times – and designed seven new kitchens for myself,' says H&G's Editor in Chief Lucy Searle. 'Plus, I've interviewed countless kitchen designers over the years, both for my kitchen remodels, and professionally. 

'In time, I've realised that there's a second kitchen work triangle that no one talks about overtly – but it's really important.

'The second kitchen work triangle is between the kitchen sink, the bin(s) and the dishwasher. These three elements need to be as close to one another as possible to make tidying up after dinner as easy as possible. You want to scrape plates, rinse them and stack them all in one easy move, without pacing up and down the length of the kitchen. 

'If you can ensure that the dining area is towards that end of the kitchen when planning its layout, too, you'll find it makes life even easier.'

17. Work out storage zones

(Image credit: Martin Moore)

When planning your kitchen layout, one key aspect is to consider how you want to use the kitchen and where you want items to be stored. 

Naturally, heavy pots and pans should be kept in lower cabinets, and within easy reach of your oven and hob. 

Likewise, mugs should never be too far away from your kettle. In this open plan kitchen, the dining table is in the same space as the kitchen area, so the addition of a tall dresser provides storage for crockery and cutlery, to make laying the table quick and easy.

18. Put in a pantry

(Image credit: Sustainable Kitchens)

Larder or pantry ideas separated from the rest of your kitchen can help keep things clear and tidy, as they are an ideal space to keep store cupboard staples and baking equipment. 

In this barn conversion project, the ceilings were low and natural light was limited, so a walk-in pantry was designed by Sustainable Kitchens . It has internal windows and under-counter cabinets only, so that it feels bright and connected to the rest of the kitchen. Automatic lighting makes it extra bright inside.

19. Maximize storage and workspace

(Image credit: Burbridge Kitchens)

Most L-shaped kitchens are fitted onto adjacent walls of a room, creating a practical corner design. They provide plenty of work surface as well as storage, though be mindful of where the two runs of cabinetry meet – the addition of pull-out drawers or an internal carousel will help to avoid wasting useful storage space.  

Consider keeping wall cabinets to one side of an L-shaped layout, opting for open shelving on the other so as not to make the room feel overcrowded. If space allows, you could add a dining table.

20. Use your alcoves

(Image credit: Tom Howley)

You are likely to inherit some unusual nooks in older country properties, so taking a flexible approach to your kitchen design may be necessary. 

Look for alcoves and recesses that you can build storage into and toss out the idea of a conventional fixed layout. Add single runs of cabinetry wherever they fit best in the space you have to work with, incorporating your appliances in between. 

To add to this flexible approach, go for a portable kitchen island or freestanding island design – units on legs open up the amount of floor space on show and can be moved around if needed, too. 

21. Build banquette seating

(Image credit: Martin Moore )

Banquette seating ideas mean you can fit more seating into the available space when it is built in to the design of your kitchen.

The fitted, upholstered benches not only provide storage beneath, but are a clever way to hide any unsightly wires or pipework. ‘These are a necessary evil that may have to be boxed in to be concealed,’ says Daniela Condo, designer at Life Kitchens . ‘See if services can be re-routed inside bulkheads, voids or under the plinth of the kitchen.’

22. Enjoy layout flexibility with freestanding furniture

(Image credit: Sebastian Cox X deVOL)

Often found in rustic-style homes, free-standing furniture offers a more flexible approach to kitchen design. It’s a relaxed look, enabling you to add single runs of cabinets around the kitchen to create your ideal layout, incorporating your appliances in between. 

This mix-and-match method works particularly well in older, country-style properties where the room may be unusually shaped. Paired with complementary wall-hung cabinets, a run of wooden free-standing cabinets will provide ample storage for small kitchens, as seen in this example by deVOL .

(Image credit: Harvey Jones)

A kitchen-diner layout is ideal for busy family households, where both the cooking and dining zones sit within the same design. 

‘When planning a kitchen, take inspiration from the existing features in the room, such as doors, thoroughfares and windows,’ says Sally Hinks, kitchen designer at Harvey Jones. ‘Looking at these elements will help you site the table in the best possible position.’

24. Go with the flow

(Image credit: Naked Kitchens)

‘Always walk through the plan in your mind to ensure it flows well and works efficiently, making sure that you can easily and fully access appliances so there are no pinch points,’ says Jayne Everett, creative director of Naked Kitchens . 

‘If you go for an island, make sure there’s enough space around it to pass through and open cabinets,’ she adds. It’s the well-planned, seamless flow around the U-shaped layout and the double-ended island that makes this kitchen design work well.

25. Make the most of a large kitchen

(Image credit: Magnet)

It’s easy to be spoilt for choice when considering kitchen layout ideas for a large area, but don’t overlook one of the most popular layouts, the U-shape, which can be the perfect match for a generously sized kitchen. 

To suit the open space, this particular layout is comprised of worktops on three connecting sides to allow for ample room for cooking. This design – by Magnet – is created for high efficiency cooking and accommodates the ‘working triangle’ perfectly, meaning you can easily move between the three key cooking components, sink, oven and refrigerator. 

This kitchen layout encourages smooth food preparation, plenty of practical storage space and allows two chefs to be operating at once, making mealtimes a real team effort. It also incorporates a peninsula breakfast bar idea, so visitors aren't excluded from the action.

26. Include an island in a different color

(Image credit: LochAnna Kitchens)

With open plan living proving increasingly popular, islands today come in a range of styles, functions and sizes to suit your space. Offering the possibility of extra room for 
both cooking and seating, they can help turn a kitchen into the hub of the home. 

To make an island the focal point, choose one in a different color from the rest of your cabinetry, as shown in this traditional kitchen design that combines earthy brown and off-white. 

The length of this island allows a variety of different elements to be included, including a sink and ample storage.

27. Create the heart of a family kitchen

(Image credit: Future plc / Darren Chung)

To tie a family kitchen together, the addition of an island can be the final piece to the puzzle. Usually suited to medium-to-large sized kitchen layout ideas, an island can contribute valuable extra storage and worktop space that’s so sought after by large families. 

When prepping meals at the island, parents can keep one eye on dinner and one on the kids, too. Then in the evenings it can transform into a dining table or even an office and homework club, offering the family a place to catch up and congregate, like the multi-purpose island in this stylish grey kitchen.

(Image credit: Future)

If your U-shape is more generous, it's worth sticking to the work triangle principle as closely as possible, but ensuring the three important elements are grouped on just two sides of the kitchen, with the third side given over to kitchen storage. 

'If your kitchen's third side is an island, like the one above, storing cutlery, plates, china – in fact any items use use for dining – is the best option,' advises Homes and Gardens' Editor in Chief Lucy Searle. 

'If you are keen, unflappable cooks who like to entertain regularly, having the hob on that unit with the cookware you need below will also work brilliantly – and be much more sociable.'

To avoid any costly kitchen design mistakes, the first step is to think carefully about how you move within the space and how you see your family using the room in the future – and this is where the well-known kitchen work triangle comes into play.

'The "work triangle" is the common sense principle that a kitchen plan revolves around the location of the sink, cooker and fridge and that the kitchen plan should be based on the most efficient workflow using these elements,' says Adrian Bergman, senior designer at British Standard by Plain English .  

'This is, of course true, especially in a busy kitchen, but there can be other considerations such as aesthetics and respect for the architecture of a room, so there are occasions where we might stretch the layout rules to achieve a result that pleases the eye as well as the brain.'

Adrian continues: 'Usually, the size and shape of the room will suggest the best kitchen layout ideas, but often there is a choice and there are pros and cons to each; a single long run, for example, can look smart but means a lot of walking between elements and the fact that guests will be looking at the chef's back while they cook. 

'I find that the best approach is to mock up and test any kitchen layout ideas in the actual space using battens and trestles, or with blocks of paper on the floor to represent the cupboards and appliances.'

Ailis started out at British GQ, where a month of work experience turned into 18 months of working on all sorts of projects, writing about everything from motorsport to interiors, and helping to put together the GQ Food & Drink Awards.  She then spent three years at the London Evening Standard, covering restaurants and bars. After a period of freelancing, writing about food, drink and homes for publications including Conde Nast Traveller, Luxury London and Departures, she started at Homes & Gardens as a Digital Writer, allowing her to fully indulge her love of good interior design. She is now a fully fledged food PR but still writes for Homes & Gardens as a contributing editor.

Kitchen layout: 5 rules, examples from the photo

Five squares in Khrushchev or a spacious open space in Euro-three - regardless of the initial data, the design of the cooking area requires special attention. In this article, we give useful tips on planning a kitchen with photos of diverse examples: with and without a refrigerator, with a dining table or bar counter, with a corner, U-shaped and parallel set. We also consider ready-made plans for different situations.

How to plan a kitchen in apartment

Headset location
— General principles
— Form
Work triangle
Other furniture
– Dining group
— Recreation area

The central place in any kitchen is occupied by a suite. This is the largest and most multifunctional element of the interior, so its location and content are given special attention.

General Principles

STD Design Social Media

In order to properly plan the kitchen area (especially if you do it yourself), it is important to proceed in stages. So, before choosing the model and shape of the headset, answer a few questions:

Answering these questions is the key to a perfect cooking zone layout. There is no single recipe: the headset must meet the needs of a particular person or family. Therefore, choosing its size, content and location in space, focus primarily on your life scenario. So, for example, for those who hardly cook at home, a few cabinets for basic storage, a two-burner stove and a small sink will suffice. If you prefer homemade food, cook for a large family or bake a lot, you will need a completely different configuration. Even how you shop is important: go to the store every couple of days for a small amount of fresh produce, or stock up a week ahead.

These nuances are especially relevant for small apartments, where the footage is limited and something has to be sacrificed. For example, it is easier for someone to take the refrigerator out into the corridor, but not to give up the dishwasher, and someone will live perfectly without a classic dining table.

7
a photo

Social networks of the Osome studio

Social networks of the designer suzanna_designer

Design: Natalia Vasilyeva

Design: Ksenia Guziy

Design: Anna Botnarenko

Design: Olga Slugina

STD Design social networks

Form

The next key step is to choose a convenient location for the headset. There are five main layouts.

Cubiq studio social networks

Linear

Everything is simple here: the set is located along one wall. It can occupy the entire width or only part of it. Since the design in this case consists of only one part, two rows of cabinets are usually made. If you need more storage space, the top tier is extended to the ceiling. And if you practically do not cook and store a minimum of dishes, you can abandon it altogether, replacing it with a pair of open shelves.

Social networks of the Malitskie Bureau studio

Social networks of the Kvadrat studio

Social networks of the designer Daria Dubkova

Social networks of the Malitskie Bureau studio

Layout example

As a rule, a single-row headset is enough for 1-2 people.

Project Natalya Lyayfer

For example, this apartment belongs to a young couple. It was necessary to organize a cooking area and a dining group with a sofa on 10 square meters, since there is no separate living room. To do this, we chose a linear layout with spacious cabinets to the ceiling - this made it possible to place all the necessary equipment, including a dishwasher, allocate enough storage space and put a full-fledged two-seater sofa.

L-shaped

This form is most popular due to its versatility: L-shaped cabinets will fit both in a spacious room and in a limited footage, in a square or narrow rectangular room. This is the best solution for tiny kitchens, because corners are involved, and this immediately increases the usable area. Often a bar or semi-bar counter is attached to one of the rows, replacing the standard dining group with a table.

In addition, the corner arrangement is considered a reference for the classic working triangle, consisting of a refrigerator, sink and stove. They can be placed in any convenient order, allocating space between them for preparing food and cooking.

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Cubiq studio social networks

Rerooms studio social networks

Design: Anastasia Ufimtseva

Design: Ksenia Guziy

Design: Ekaterina Durava. Photo: Evgeniy Gnesin

Design: Ksenia Guziy

Planning example

Corner layout is perfect for elongated rooms: both in terms of configuration and as a zoning tool.

Project by Anna Malyutina

If you have a long narrow room, it is convenient to place the cooking area in one part. For example, a roomy suite with all the necessary equipment was planned here. They also made a classic working triangle: a refrigerator and a sink on one side, a stove and other cooking appliances on the other. In the center of the zone, a place was allocated for a dining group for four.

U-shape

U-shape is an "improved" version of the corner layout that also involves a third party. This arrangement is also suitable for rooms of any footage. In a spacious kitchen, you can put the set against two adjacent walls, making the third part of the structure single-tier (this can be lower cabinets, a peninsula with a work surface or a bar counter with storage below). On a limited footage, furniture, as a rule, fit the width of the room. This layout has its plus - a wall with a window is involved. Near it, you can, for example, install a sink or arrange a breakfast corner.

If you have chosen a U-shaped layout, then remember about ergonomics: in order for all drawers to open comfortably, the width of the kitchen must be at least 2.5 meters. In the case of a narrow room, one of the parts of the structure should be without retractable and opening sections: for example, it can be a bar counter or a work surface.

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Design: Alena Nikolaeva. Photo: Maxim Maximov. Style: Alena Garty

Social networks of designer Andrey Ortynsky

Social networks of Bodes studio

Social networks of ARD Design studio

Social networks of designer Diana Yarullina

Social networks of Antei studio

Sample layout
This is also a convenient option for a U-shaped arrangement.

Project by Alena Nikolaeva

For example, in this one-room apartment, the developer allocated 12 squares in a rectangular room, in its far part, for a place for cooking. Cabinets and appliances were placed along three walls. We made a convenient working triangle by placing the refrigerator, sink and stove on each side, respectively. Since the area is small, the dining group was moved to the living room.

Parallel

Such a layout is not as common as a corner or classic linear layout, but it also happens. For example, the arrangement of two rows opposite each other will be most convenient in a narrow room where the L-shaped headset does not fit. Or if the cooking zone is walk-through and is located, for example, in the corridor. In a small room, it is important to monitor the distance: there should be enough free space between the rows to freely open cabinet doors or pull out drawers.

Parallel layouts can also be found in spacious kitchens. This solution is especially popular in private homes. Most often, since there is enough space, for convenience, an island is installed between two parallel parts of the structure or a dining group is placed.

Design: Olga Slugina

Design: Olga Slugina

Design: OMiS group of companies

Design: OMiS group of companies

Mint Tiny Homes social networks

Planning example

A common problem in studios or small rooms is that the entrance is poorly located and does not allow the L-shaped headset to be placed.

Project of the OMiS group of companies

Here is an example of such a case. In this project, the problem was solved by dividing the cooking zone into two parts and placing them along parallel walls. This made it possible to place all the necessary equipment and lay enough storage space. The cooking area is separated from the living-dining room by small walls.

With an island

A cooking zone with an island is a dream come true for those who love to cook. Such a solution really has many advantages: it is convenient, it allows you to organize additional storage space, make the right working triangle, highlight the dining area, and also zone the space. In the end - just beautiful and aesthetically pleasing. At the same time, there is a stereotype that the island layout is only suitable for large areas.

This is partly true: the more square meters you have, the easier it is to implement such an arrangement. On the other hand, you can find a place for a headset with a compact island in a city apartment. Of course, this option is not suitable for a Khrushchev with a five-meter isolated kitchen, but even in an average euro-twin it is quite possible to make such a layout. The island in this case should be as functional as possible: you can build a hob or install a sink into it, organize storage below.

The easiest way to organize a kitchen with an island in an apartment is if it is possible to move the dining group into the living room.

Project by Marina Makarova

This is an example of just such a layout. The classic dining table is located in the living room, and there is a roomy island in the cooking area. It complements the linearly arranged furniture (the refrigerator stands separately in the opposite corner). The island part can be used as a work surface and as a place for breakfast, tea or dinner in a narrow circle.

Another key element of the cooking zone is the work triangle. This term refers to the layout of the three main strategic points: refrigerator, sink and stove.

Design: Margarita Zenova

It is believed that it is optimal to place them at the imaginary corners of a triangle with sides from 1.2 to 2.7 m. With this arrangement, it is comfortable for a person to move around the kitchen area during cooking without making unnecessary movements. It is most convenient to form a working triangle along the sides of the L-shaped headset, but there may be other options. For example:

There is no single rule in which order to arrange the elements, but you should be guided by the logic of cooking. The standard route is to take out the food, wash it, then prepare it on the countertop and finally send it to the stove. Placing the latter between the sink and the refrigerator is not the best option, since you will have to run back and forth, in addition, drops of water from your hands and food will fall on the stove.

Also make sure that between the areas of storage, washing and preparation, there is a free passage, not restricting movement and sufficient to be able to open cabinets and doors of appliances.

Design: Vitaly Savko. Photo: Felix Sivakov. Style: Alesya Kornilovich

Social networks of the Malitskie Bureau studio

Design: Natalia Vasilyeva

Design: Margarita Zenova

Social networks of the Malitskie Bureau studio

When the location of the headset and equipment is determined, it remains to find a place for other furniture. By default, this is a dining area, but there may be variations.

Dining room

Project by Marina Karalkina. Photo: Andrey Sorokin

The classic dining group consists of several chairs and a table. It can be rectangular, square, round or oval; folding or stationary. The choice of model depends on the size and shape of the room, as well as the composition of the family: for example, a compact table is enough for 1-2 people, and for a large family you will need a more spacious option. If the kitchen is small, a folding table is an almost mandatory option, especially if you often receive guests. As for the shape, a simple rule works here: it is easier to fit a square or rectangle into space and, for example, put it in a corner, while a round model will need a little more space.

Sometimes apartment owners forgo the dining table in favor of an island or a bar. Such a decision, as a rule, is dictated by two reasons:

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Social networks of designer Alexey Volkov

Design: Margarita Zenova

Design: Anna Malyutina

Design: Pavel and Svetlana Alekseev

Social networks of designer Denis Gorshkov

Design: Yulia Karpukhina. Photo: Evgeny Gnesin. Style: Evgeniya Melnikova

Design: Olga Slugina

Project by Marina Karalkina. Photo: Andrey Sorokin

Recreation area

The soft group is found both in kitchens combined with the living room and in isolated kitchens.

Social networks of designer Vera Nikitina

Recreation area can be represented by:

In the kitchen-living room, the approach to planning is standard: the space is divided into a cooking and relaxation area. The latter is usually represented by a sofa, a coffee table, optionally one or two armchairs. If you want to put upholstered furniture in the cooking area, then it is important to consider several aspects. First, the dimensions. A wide three-seater sofa will not fit in a small kitchen - as a rule, special compact models are chosen. The upholstery material is also important, since the room is characterized by high humidity, temperature changes and high pollution. Choose hard-wearing, odor-resistant materials that can be wiped down with a damp cloth (machine-washable, even better).

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AN Design social networks

Design: Margarita Kalinina. Photo: Alexander Burnatov

Social networks of the blogger ksenia. smir_nova

Design: Tatyana Rtishcheva. Photo: Natalia Vershinina

Design: Svetlana Kuksova. Photo: Natalya Mavrenkova. Style: Anna Koroleva

Social networks of designer Irina Rudakova

Design: Vera Koroleva

Social networks of designer Vera Nikitina

Prepared by

Anastasia Stepanova

Apartment kitchen design: 30 best examples

Content

The design of the kitchen in the apartment is a matter of the functional arrangement of the headset modules, household appliances, wiring of engineering communications, the choice of finishing materials, kitchen facades, countertops, apron and dining group.

But a kitchen is more than porcelain stoneware and a refrigerator. This is the place where the hostess is likely to spend most of her time. A place that will be associated with your home for many years to come. Therefore, in our article we consider beautiful, comfortable, designer kitchen sets that will allow you to bring your life to a new level of everyday comfort and simple worldly happiness.

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TOP 5 popular colors for kitchen and dining room decoration

The design of kitchens in apartments in the photo below in different colors, which are now in trend, will show you which shades are now at the peak of popularity. Looking closely at them, remember that you can add color accents to almost any interior, and here we are primarily considering background shades, the base for the entire interior. Italian cuisine often has colored or gold/black accents.

Grey-beige monochrome: for neoclassical interiors

This color scheme is great for neoclassical, Scandinavian and modern interior styles. A beige kitchen in a monochrome palette paired with gray is currently the most relevant design solution. Initially, this gamma is neutral, light, visually relaxing. It is great for the design of a kitchen combined with a living room, or a small kitchen. At the same time, gray tones add an urban mood, while warm beiges create a cozy atmosphere. This palette looks best in neoclassical, but in Scandinavian, modern, and sometimes minimalism, it can also be successfully used.

Beige-brown aesthetics: a cozy family tandem

This color palette is perfect for all interiors in traditional styles: neoclassical, country, English, Scandinavian, classic and sometimes art deco. The design of a brown kitchen in an apartment usually has partially wooden elements: headset modules, a dining room, a parquet floor. Fully wooden brown kitchens in a natural shade remained only in such styles as country, chalet, and in light colors - in the classics. Beige and brown kitchens are one of the hottest trends in interior design and a great family decorating solution. At the same time, white, gray, gold or any natural shades (olive, pale yellow, for example) can be added to this tandem.

Chocolate and coffee dessert: fashion for dark interiors

This luxurious color scheme looks great in a classic interior, English and art deco. Just as often it can be seen in interiors with minimalist headsets. The design of the kitchen combined with the living room in rich luxury interiors often has such a palette, especially in the design of country houses. And the chocolate-coffee range is also liked by those who have always gravitated towards the warmth of natural wood. Chocolate and coffee kitchens can have a beige or gray background and look great using multiple materials (marble + wood + gloss + tinted glass). True, such a palette can only be advised to owners of spacious rooms with good natural light. And do not forget about the importance of built-in lighting.

Black and white contrast: modern chic for your kitchen

The contrast of black and white can be found in many styles of interior design. The design of the black kitchen in the apartment is more typical for minimalism and art deco, and the design of the white kitchen is more typical for minimalism, neoclassicism and Scandinavian style. Black and white interiors are very photogenic, and in everyday life they always look neat, restrained, minimalistic, regardless of the chosen style. True, you need to be careful with accents here: as a rule, bright and natural tones simply do not fit here, because silver, gold, or one deep shade (emerald, plum, dark blue) become accents.

A magical trio of aesthetics: brown, white and black

More complex color combinations, where three or four shades at once play a leading role in the interior, are often found in minimalism, loft, modern style, contemporary and eclectic. This palette can be recommended for spacious interiors that you want to make a little futuristic, eclectic, interesting and original. A wide variety of accents (gold, gloss, highlights, color accents) are perfect here. This range can be advised to those who want to create a unique interior, where each zone will have its own zest.

Go to the catalog of kitchens

The catalog contains all the factories producing Italian kitchens from inexpensive models to premium and elite ones.

Kitchen catalog

Modern kitchens classic kitchens Loft kitchens Kitchen Provence Neoclassical kitchens Art Deco Kitchens

Fashionable design techniques for decorating the kitchen in the apartment

A modern kitchen in an apartment should always have original details. We will consider several design solutions in the design of the kitchen below, such as a single range for the backsplash and countertops, stretch ceilings, accent aprons, combined flooring, islands and multi-format headset modules. All these ideas can be implemented both in the design of a separate kitchen and in the design of a kitchen combined with a living room. They are also suitable for the design of a small kitchen, even a small one, and for a kitchen with a much larger area, for example, in a country house. By the way, all ideas can be adapted to different interior styles.

Backsplash and worktop design in the same color scheme

The design of the kitchen with a white apron and an artificial stone worktop in the apartment in the photo above is made in the Provence style. When the apron and countertop are decorated with the same material, the interior (and the work area, in particular) looks more elegant and neat.

Stretch ceiling design with integrated lighting

Stretch ceiling in the interior allows you to create various options for built-in lighting with a large number of lighting scenarios. This makes it possible to use the space with great convenience at different times of the day and under different circumstances. Also, decorative panels, wooden beams, decorative plaster and mirrors can be used in the design of the ceiling.

Accent apron made of fashionable stylish tiles in bright colors

The design of a small kitchen in an apartment is often complemented by an accent apron in a fashionable bright tone. Shades such as teal, marsala, emerald, raspberry, pineapple, apricot - the ability to make a white or gray kitchen as original as possible with just one design decision!

Combination marble effect porcelain stoneware floor

Combination flooring is a chic solution that always pays off. Combining different series of porcelain stoneware for popular types of marble (for example, white and black; brown and beige; white, black and gray), you get a designer geometric pattern or even a carpet-like panel in the center of the room.

Kitchen island with integrated appliances

The design of the living room kitchen in the apartment is often complemented by an island with a bar counter or a functional island with a worktop. You can build a sink, stove, oven, dishwasher, extractor hood and even a wine cooler into it. For the countertop, there are also various modules for embedding. Options for custom built-in appliances include a grill top, teppan yaki grill, steamer, deep fryer, wok panel, pull-out hoods and caramelized salamander grill. There is also an option with a fridge for drinks under the countertop. It is important to understand that the usability of the kitchen depends on a warm floor, a multi-functional sink with cutting boards, a built-in vacuum cleaner built into the TV set, convenient slider windows for easy ventilation and automatic shutters for shading, a large number of sockets and their correct location. And for columns/pencil cases, there are built-in ovens, espresso machines, steamers, microwaves, food processors, and warming cabinets.

Combination multi-size modular top cabinets

Standard-type upper cabinets are no longer a typical design option for this area in the kitchen. There are also open shelves, sideboards, shelving, narrow modules, suspended elements from the ceiling, wall rails and much more. By design, multi-format modules are perfect for a loft, industrial, minimalist or modern kitchen.

Design of a small kitchen: from 9 to 16 sq m

Next, we will consider several design options for a small culinary area. All of them are furnished with Italian kitchen sets from the latest collections. Different layouts and arrangements allow in each case to achieve the most positive result.

Small kitchen design 9 sqm with bases along one wall and columns along the other

The design of a kitchen in an apartment of 9–13 sq m can be complex, but at the same time very functional. The design of a small kitchen in an apartment is always a matter of choosing modules and their configuration, so let's look at the different layouts and furnishing options in the photo below.

Small linear set for standard kitchen 9-14 sqm

In Italian kitchens, the range of both the sets themselves and the modules within each collection is very wide and well thought out. Therefore, for your interior, you can create a truly exclusive ensemble.

Design of a living room kitchen of 30 sq m with a suite in a niche

The design of the kitchen in an apartment of 13–16 sq. M gives more room for action. Here you can afford an additional pencil case, a buffet, a more spacious dining group. What exactly to choose from the modules for such an interior, the interior designer will tell you.

Long corner kitchen with luxurious backsplash - for narrow spaces

But in the end, the design of a small kitchen in an apartment is primarily a matter of your lifestyle. Someone will want to have a larger sink, and someone will put a small one, but will add a dishwasher to the package. Some people want a double side-by-side fridge or an extra freezer, while others go for the standard one, leaving more space for the countertop.

Stylish and modern gray compact loft style suite

A great example of a modern set for a small kitchen, which has a built-in refrigerator in the side high column module.

Small U-shaped kitchen with built-in appliances in side columns

Another great idea for a small kitchen is a living room with a u-shaped kitchen with a peninsula and a side dining area.

Design of a kitchen-living room in an apartment with a marble island with a breakfast bar

An excellent design project for a neoclassical kitchen with a marble island between the culinary and living areas.

Dining room kitchen in an open-plan context with trendy built-in units

A stylish solution for furnishing a kitchen with a glossy set and a dining room with armchairs on a metal frame in the Art Deco style.

Beautiful styles in kitchen design: the most popular and interesting

Next, we'll take a look at the different styles of kitchen interior design that our clients love the most. Among them are glamorous French art deco, practical minimalism with oriental roots, extravagant urban loft, cozy Scandinavian family style and luxurious classicism.

Art Deco: glamorous cocktails and party atmosphere

An art deco kitchen is only suitable for an apartment decorated in the same style or a combination of modern style and art deco. Such a culinary area looks like a front, bar, cocktail, glamorous and will always be a status symbol of your apartment.

Minimalism: practicality and convenience

A minimalist style kitchen set can be found in various design projects of apartments and even decorated in other styles. This is because the kitchen, as a functional, wet and at the same time very important area of ​​​​the house, should be as practical as possible. But in other elements, you can afford more decor, small details, original design. Therefore, it is easy to find a minimalist set even in a neoclassical or loft-style apartment.

Loft: urban brutalism

A loft-style kitchen is a combination of black gloss, open shelves, metal, steel, wood slabs, and red accents. Not all of these elements will necessarily be present in one kitchen, but they are rightfully considered reference. It is best to design a loft-style kitchen in the context of an open-plan kitchen-living room or simply in a spacious room of 16 sq.

Scandinavian style: bright and tidy family comfort

Renovation in the Scandinavian style in the kitchen in the apartment draws a concise, bright and neat image of a family hearth. Usually we are talking about a white, beige or gray wooden kitchen with light or black countertops, a couple of sideboards and standard built-in appliances. An apron or textiles can become accents. At the same time, Scandinavian cuisine usually costs less than sets in other styles.

Classicism: luxury and detailed decor

"Beautiful and luxurious" is about a kitchen in a classic style. Such a set is usually decorated with carved elements, has an accent design of the main portal, such details as modulons and medallions, bas-reliefs, pseudo-columns, friezes and cornices, crowns.

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