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50 Lovely L-Shaped Kitchen Designs & Tips You Can Use From Them

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When designing a functional kitchen, the ‘working triangle’ should be kept in mind - that is, the distance between your sink, stove and fridge. An L-shaped kitchen lends itself perfectly to this triangular tip, being two sides of a triangle to begin with. An L-shaped layout works best in small and medium sized spaces, which fly closer to the work triangle efficiency guideline of spreading workstations at no more than 1200mm apart. A great kitchen is not all about rules though, it’s equally about how that space feels and inspires you to create fabulous food. This collection brings ideas for cabinet placement, shelving designs, statement backsplashes, eating areas and more.

Busy, busy, busy. A heavily patterned backsplash and zoned flooring are the stars of the show in this colourful kitchen. A small semi-circular breakfast bar has been implemented at one side of the room to allow guests to socialise with the busy chef, and as a spot for a quick snack or early morning coffee.

Block it out. This L-shaped kitchen layout with corner window is dominated by a colour block of solid yellow. The rectangle overlaps one half of a wall cabinet, and ends up across the window glass as coloured film. Yellow kitchen accessories complement the strong accent.

Implement striking design features to unite each arm of the kitchen. A black box shelf underlines wall cabinets on one wall of this kitchen, and another forms an end point to the line of pale cabinets on the other side.

Make the space feel more rectangular by adding an area rug. Set a tall decorative vase of flowers down on the floor at the units’ end, to soften the look of the hard edge.

Whip out the sledgehammer – after seeking the advice of a professional! If budget allows, open up your disused kitchen wall to the great outdoors with some retractable doors. The increased natural light and perceived space will truly transform your kitchen.

A large picture window looking out to the garden can be hugely satisfying too. Note how the venetian window blinds at this one are wooden to match the horizontal strip around the kitchen base cabinets. A couple of geometric succulent planters match the geo backsplash, and provide a perfect modern flourish.

This sweet little grey kitchen is warmed up with gold cabinet handles and natural wood accessories. A table with a drop leaf makes a great addition to a small kitchen, allowing the eating space to be maximised or minimised in an instant.

Focus on what makes you happy. wine glasses are the focal point in this home, highlighted by the glow of strip lights inside glass cases.

Cater to the space, and your budget. If monetary constraints don’t allow for the building of bespoke kitchen cabinets into eaves, then use up that awkward space by installing a wall of open kitchen shelving at waning lengths.

Fashion a peninsula around a challenging architecture.

It’s not just the cabinets that follow an L-shape here, the flooring follows suit too.

Choose larder units in one colour, with standard base and wall cabinets in another to break the look of a long wall.

As L-shaped kitchens only use two walls, they naturally open up space. This is ideal for kitchens that flow into a living room or dining area.

Find inspiration in tradition. Traditionally the kitchen sink was situated in front of a window, if one was available, like in this green kitchen. Although, in a modern age of dishwashers it doesn’t seem so important to always have the best view from here. A kitchen clock is another classic that’s been bumped. Digital oven displays and microwave clocks negate the need for analogue designs, however, they still make nice wall decoration.

Colour coordinate. This yellow L-shaped kitchen with breakfast bar has a matching canary yellow fridge-freezer. If you like this then be sure to check out these other yellow kitchens.

Include a corner pantry. This red kitchen has an open shelving unit filled with pantry supplies that are both useful and decorative.

Dial away wall cabinets in a paler colour. Base units in rich colours work well when teamed with white or light upper cabinets, so as not to oversaturate a space.

Use ceiling panels to deepen the layout. This dramatically dark kitchen has an equally dark ceiling extension, fitted with spotlights. The matching material across the ceiling gives the layout extra depth, whilst two-tone cabinets play with form.

Powdery perfection. A flurry of blush pink accents and copper accessories speckle a perfect measure of contrast and warmth through powder blue decor.

Golden honey toned wood additions and heavy black accents bring an entirely different feel to a light grey and white kitchen.

Make a metallic mixup. A gold faucet, a silver oven, a copper vase and candlesticks. Anything goes.

Jazz up the unused kitchen wall with some typographical art. It’s also a great way to mark up a side-slung dining spot.

Make two seperate rooms in one. With two walls to work with you could separate kitchen facilities from utilities by splitting the arrangement, like this kitchen with washing machine. Keep cooking, prep and food supplies on one arm of your L-shape, and place washing machines and utility cupboards for ironing boards, laundry supplies and baskets along the other.

Criss cross low mounted wall cabinets over base cupboards for a unique arrangement.

Use two depths of wall cabinets, in different tones, to break up a double banked arrangement.

Craft stand-out perimeters. Extend a soffit of recessed lighting around an L-shaped perimeter to add to lofty proportions. Create a unique kitchen backsplash with unusual shaped tiling in a series of different hues.

A collection of wall shelves decorate the leftover wall here, along with a series of kitchen utensil hanging rails.

indoor herb planters can hang along a rail too. This design allows pots to inhabit a space not deep enough for a shelf, where an open wall cupboard door from the other side might chip against its edge.

Go with the flow. This completely wooden kitchen module extends its style to the hallway beyond. A matching wooden facia flows over the adjacent wall and one interior door.

Even though the counter extends beyond the ‘L’ here, we’ve added this to the collection because it holds cunning inspiration for an L-shaped kitchen with a corner window. Notice how the end wall cabinet has been chamfered so as not to block out any of the natural light.

Curate a gallery at the end of the run. A display of decorative plates makes a beautiful and fitting end point.

Simple and chic. A glowing wooden cut through between crisp white cabinets looks clean and inviting.

Create a chunky frame out of cabinets, like this white framed kitchen design with wooden inset.

Create a party piece. The wine cooler that towers the full height of this black kitchen is certain to keep guests entertained!

A boxy plant holder fringes this L-shaped kitchen with island. LED illuminated shelves brighten a wooden feature wall. Wooden bar stools match the veneer on the cabinets.

Another wine rack in an L-shaped kitchen with peninsula. This time the vino is brought right to the bench. It might prove a challenge to stop at just one bottle.

Dual windows look grand along a length of countertop. Intricately patterned backsplash tiles on the other branch balance the look.

A large potted plant makes a natural divide between the kitchen and dining spot.

Use pattern to make the most of small spaces.

Open shelving units and colour blocks make an interesting scheme. Projecting out of the backsplash at an angle, the knife holder adds an interesting touch as well.

Minimalist kitchens can sink away into the walls with handle-free slab fronted units.

Adding light wood tone and cheerful prints to a white kitchen creates a wonderfully Scandinavian style kitchen.

Even just a few special tiles can bring a new energy a plain white kitchen.

If you like this look, take a glance at these other industrial style kitchen designs.

An open shelf occupies one wall, whilst closed cabinetry completes the other. The change keeps the small space looking airy and open, rather than overwhelmed with too many units.

Metro tiles help a small space to appear wider.

A horizontal stripe is another method to visually widen the space.

Nope, this isn’t strictly an L-shaped kitchen but we’re taking a look at the L-shaped arrangement of wooden units that are complemented by a cheerful orange unit. The unusual piece has a series of open fronted and closed volumes for displaying and concealing choice items from view.

Two bar stools make the end of a cabinet run into a breakfast bar.

Wrap a countertop down the side of the end cabinet for a sleek luxurious finish.

1. Kitchen canisters 2. Fruit kitchen clock 3. Evercut Furtif Knives 4. Touch kitchen faucet 5. Comfort kitchen mat 6. Kitchen trash can with step lid 7. Counter edge cutting board with collapsible bin 8. Green foldable cutting board 9. Green and white sink strainer 10. Nesting bowl set 11. Modway kitchen stool 12. Swan ladle


Recommended Reading:
50 Wonderful One Wall Kitchens And Tips You Can Use From Them
50 Stunning Modern Kitchen Island Designs

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6 Tips to Think About When Designing an L-Shaped Kitchen Layout

The kitchen is the heart of most homes. It’s used for much more than just preparing meals. It’s where the family gathers to catch up, guests congregate to chat, and our kids sometimes do their homework. It’s absolutely essential to create a flexible, comfortable, and efficient environment for the multi-purpose uses of the kitchen.

Blog | Kitchen

Images by Anja Kodrič

There are many good reasons why the L-shaped kitchen layout is the most popular kitchen design. The L-shaped layout works in kitchens of all shapes and sizes and is one of the most ergonomic designs for an efficient workflow.

Cooks love this basic layout, as it reduces the walking time between the refrigerator, stove, and sink –the focal points of every kitchen.

We have put together 6 tips to help you create the perfect L-shaped kitchen layout.  But first, let’s talk about what an L-shaped layout is.

What Is an L-Shaped Kitchen Layout?

Just like the name sounds, an L-shaped kitchen layout is defined by two perpendicular walls — one longer and one shorter that meet to form an L.

Typically along the longer wall, you have most of your counter space and cupboards. Along the shorter wall, you will have less counter space with one appliance — often the stove.  Here’s a typical L-shaped kitchen floor plan for a small space to give you a better idea:

Many L-shaped kitchen layouts also include an island to provide more countertop space, sometimes a sitting area with bar stools, and additional storage.

Why Use an L-Shaped Kitchen Layout?

There are several good reasons to opt for an L-shaped design:

What to Think About When Designing an L-Shaped Kitchen Layout

Here are our top tips for designing an L-shaped kitchen:

  1. Remember the kitchen work triangle
  2. Balance appliances with countertop space
  3. Consider the alternatives
  4. You can never have too much storage
  5. Think about adding an island
  6. Take into account doorways and windows

1. Remember the Kitchen Work Triangle

The kitchen work triangle  (also known as the kitchen triangle or the golden triangle)  is a simple concept that states the fridge, stove, and sink should form a triangle within your kitchen layout.

The idea is to create an ergonomically efficient working environment and reduce the walking distance between stations.

Each side of the triangle should be between four and nine feet apart for optimal efficiency. Too big and you’ll have further to walk, too small and you’ll create a congested or cramped workspace.

2. Balance Appliances With Countertop Space

Once you’ve added your main kitchen appliances like your fridge, stove, and sink, you’ll need to consider how many additional appliances to include. The list is almost endless, from dishwashers and small under-counter beverage fridges to smaller items like toasters, microwaves, and coffee machines.

Keep in mind small appliances that don’t go under the counter take away much-needed countertop space from your kitchen. This is especially important if you’re working with a small L-shape design.

Top RoomSketcher Tip

Use the 3x4 rule to calculate countertop space. This rule states that a kitchen needs three separate countertops that should each be approximately four feet long.

The 3x4 rule is related to the kitchen work triangle idea. As there are three stages to creating a meal (food prep, cooking, and cleaning) you should reserve three countertop areas for each stage. Preferably each countertop area should be close to your three main appliances,  the fridge, stove, and sink.

3. Consider the Alternatives

Before you dive right in and commit to the L-shape, it’s worth considering some of the alternative kitchen layouts. Common plans include galley, single-wall, U-shape, and G-shape.

Each has its own advantages and disadvantages. Your room shape, room size, and budget will be the main factors when choosing which layout you will use.

To make life easier, why not plan your kitchen design first using the RoomSketcher App? You can quickly compare each option, see how they work with your specific requirements and room dimensions. RoomSketcher allows you to easily create 2D plans, or even visualize your new kitchen in stunning 3D.

4. You Can Never Have Too Much Storage

By design, an L-shaped layout limits you to only two rows of upper and lower cabinets. Compared to U-shaped or G-shaped designs, this can lead to limited storage options. Especially in small rooms.

A clever solution in an L-shaped plan is to go vertical and stack an additional row of cabinets above. This works well if your room has high ceilings.

Top RoomSketcher Tip

Another great way to maximize storage capacity is to make the most of corners. Use carousel units to ensure no space is wasted.

5. Think About Adding an Island

Adding an island to a traditional L-shaped kitchen layout gives you the best of both worlds. You retain the openness and efficiency of the design while also adding extra countertop space, possibly seating, and definitely storage.

You can also add a large butcher block top to your island to create a great food prep area in your kitchen.  However, try not to compromise the efficiency of your kitchen by obstructing the work triangle.

6. Take Into Account Doorways and Windows

If your room has a doorway or large window in the corner, you can still make use of an L-shaped design. Commonly referred to as a broken L-shaped layout, this alternative still provides all the benefits and efficiency of a standard L-shape:

You may experience more through traffic, so consider placing your primary appliances and workstations away from the doorway to avoid congestion.

Design Your Perfect L-Shaped Kitchen

We hope we have inspired you to create the perfect L-shaped kitchen — an inviting and efficient place to cook, entertain and just hang out.

Enjoy designing your new kitchen or upgrading your existing one. Remember, you can use the RoomSketcher App to speed up the process and quickly compare all the options. It’s easy to use and free to get started.

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L-Shaped Kitchen Design

If you're looking to increase the work surface in your kitchen without sacrificing open floor plan, consider an L-shaped kitchen.

People are increasingly opting for loft-style furniture fronts, turning away from the traditional separate dining room. And L-shaped open plan kitchens are gaining popularity because of the extra space in the room.

The functional layout consists of a worktop on two adjacent walls that meet at a corner to form an "L". This popular set allows for more extra space than a U-shaped kitchen without sacrificing countertops. nine0003

In a large room, only one work surface is possible along the wall, the other opens into the living space, creating a partition between the kitchen and a potential recreation area.

  • Interesting space

    • This option is best suited for small to medium sized rooms. An L-shaped kitchen uses at least one of the walls to create a space for entertaining.

    Space allows several people to be in the kitchen to chat during lunch or family dinner. Without an island, you will be away from guests if you are busy cooking. nine0003

    To transform a room into a kitchen-dining room, add a table and chairs. Place them on one side of the hall to avoid clutter in the kitchen. This will help to double the working space.

  • Turn on kitchen island

    • If space allows, add a kitchen island to become the focal point of the room. It can also be used for dining as an alternative to the traditional table and chairs. Bar stools are comfortable and compact, often easy to hide under an island. nine0003

    For small kitchens with limited cabinetry, the island can be used as additional storage by increasing the work surface.

    For a large kitchen, an island provides the functionality of an unused space by creating a structure for an unusually shaped room.

    If you prefer the privacy of an open floor plan, a kitchen island will provide an enclosed cooking space, hiding any mess from guests.

  • More storage space

    • A kitchen needs to be functional as well as stylish, so consider storage space when designing an L-shaped layout.

    If space is limited and a kitchen island is not an option, you can opt for floor-to-ceiling tall cabinets.

    If you want to increase the space with height, make sure there is sufficient ceiling lighting elsewhere. Also consider installing lighting under cabinets to get rid of dark spots. nine0003

    Don't forget about the so-called work triangle, which consists of the three main elements of the kitchen. The stove, sink and refrigerator should be located at a convenient distance for you.

  • The illusion of a large space

    • The L-shaped design can create an open floor plan that makes it easier to move around and also gives the illusion of a larger space.

    Light kitchen fronts, glossy or matt, painted or with PVC film, will help spread the sunlight, provided you don't block the natural light coming through the windows and doors with lots of decorations like flowers or plants. nine0003

    Keep countertop clutter to a minimum, store items in cabinets as much as space allows. While it's handy to have utensils close at hand, if you don't use them daily, store them away and also put things away that don't belong in the kitchen.

    Friendly and spacious, the L-shaped open plan kitchen could be the answer to your storage needs.

    The

    L-shaped kitchen fits into the corner of the room, providing maximum flexibility for cooking and entertaining. nine0003

    L-shaped kitchen: 46 photos, advantages, design

    Custom-made L-shaped kitchen is a frequent choice, because it allows you to organize space in a stylish, convenient and ergonomic way using a corner area. If you want to purchase such furniture, it is important to take into account the features of this layout. We hope that the information, photos, useful tips selected in this article will help everyone who is planning a purchase.

    Contents:

    L-shaped corner kitchens can hardly be attributed to universal solutions. They are not suitable for rooms with complex geometry. Headsets can be successfully placed in the kitchens of "Khrushchev" and "Stalinka", modern apartments, studios.

    Among the advantages worth highlighting:

    Our corner kitchens

    Disadvantages

    L-shaped kitchens: types of planning in the photo

    Designers create exclusive and standard projects, offer various configurations of furniture with bar counters, islands and peninsulas.

    Plain L-shaped

    Option for kitchens up to 7 m2. with an arrangement along the window and a corner for breakfast. With low window sills, the sides of the corner are planned along the walls, the corners are beveled for safe movement.

    In spacious rooms, the kitchen and dining area form a harmonious whole interior. nine0003

    Corner with breakfast bar

    Suitable for square and rectangular kitchens, rooms with a balcony or a bay window. In small rooms, a folding version of the rack is used to save meters.

    The bar often becomes a work surface or a corner for eating, it focuses on the zones.

    Corner kitchen with ventilation duct, ledge

    If there is a ventilation duct, ledges or niches in the room, custom-made furniture is the only solution. Dismantling important communications is impossible, and experts use various techniques to give the interior aesthetics and even originality. nine0003

    What can be done with the volume box?

    L-shaped kitchen: layout with a peninsula

    The peninsula looks best in square, spacious rooms. The L-shaped kitchen, combined with a living room or dining room, a balcony or a veranda, gives the interiors comfort and perfectly zones the space. nine0003

    The role of the peninsula can be performed by a bar counter, a work table with conveniently located kitchen utensils.

    L-shaped kitchen with island

    Kitchen with an island element is convenient for those who love to cook. The sides of the headset are located along adjacent walls, while the island is assigned to perform one or several missions at once. It can be:

    Location options

    When choosing a placement option, it is important to think through the details: how the corner will be organized, where the appliances will be located, how the doors will function.

    Location along the walls without windows

    A classic option in which it is easy to plan a working triangle: at equal distances (up to 2.5 m) equip storage, food processing and food preparation areas.

    L-shaped kitchen along the wall with a window

    This method is relevant if the side of the headset cannot be planned against the wall.

    It is important to take into account the size and height of the window sill, not disturb the location of communications, choose materials for furniture that are resistant to temperature changes, frequent wet cleaning, etc.

    Arrangement of appliances

    Modern household appliances are complex sensitive units. When designing L-shaped kitchens, it is important to exclude close proximity, take into account safety rules:

    Location of sink, hob

    If the rule of the "working triangle" works in the room, then the location of the sink, stove, hob does not raise questions. The following points should be considered:

    The shape of the inner corner of the set

    The shape of the inner corner determines the comfort of the kitchen set, the choice of storage systems, and the placement of appliances.

    Straight

    This version is extremely ergonomic and suitable for small kitchens. A practical solution is folding doors, installing internal storage mechanisms.

    Beveled

    Beveled or concave corners create a spacious work surface, which allows you to conveniently place a sink or stove and deep, spacious storage areas. nine0003

    Inner corner equipment

    In the corner of the headset, sinks, stoves, storage systems with easy access are usually located. The space should be well lit, especially if the corner area is located opposite the window.

    Style and design of the L-shaped kitchen: photo

    From the point of view of the choice of style, the L-shaped kitchen is universal. The furniture looks equally great in classic and modern styles, fashionable Provence, loft, hi-tech.

    Classicism

    L-shaped headsets in classical styles are best placed in spacious rooms. Of the materials, natural wood, veneer, stone are preferred.

    The main principle is to maintain balance, symmetry, harmony.

    An economical option, authentically imitating the classics - furniture with facades made of MDF and chipboard.

    Modernism

    Modernism implies the absence of strict geometry, the presence of natural materials, smooth forms. Calm shades of nature, conciseness and restraint, elegance and comfort are welcome. nine0003

    In a modern design version, corner kitchens can have glossy curved facades, radius elements.

    Hi-tech

    G-shaped kitchen in a modern, laconic technical style - a combination of metal and glass, innovations and technical achievements of mankind. The lighting system should be well thought out in the room.

    Provence and country

    Both styles contain rustic roots, but have a number of significant differences.

    Classic country style kitchen interior - warm and inviting. Combination of textured wood, warm terracotta and honey shades. nine0003

    Provence style suites are more characterized by classic outlines, delicate decor, pastel colors that give the interior freshness, tenderness, sophistication.

    Color palette

    The color scheme of kitchen sets depends on the style.

    Lighting

    Lighting is an important consideration when planning an L-shaped kitchen. With a lack of natural light, it is necessary to consider daylight illumination of all used areas in accordance with the standards.

    The artificial lighting option is selected in accordance with the style of furniture, color schemes, placement of work surfaces and zoning. nine0003

    Color distortion is not allowed, warm light lamps are preferred.

    Ceiling chandeliers, sconces and floor lamps, LED strips and spotlights should harmoniously complement the interior.

    L-shaped kitchen designs

    See a selection of photographs of how L-shaped kitchens can reflect the chosen style.

    Useful tips from designers for designing an L-shaped kitchen

    Examples of our work

    Our corner kitchens

    L-shaped kitchen - compact, roomy, functional, allows you to implement ideas in any artistic style. nine0003

    If you have time, we recommend visiting Petro-Furniture stores in St. Petersburg, to see how corner sets are assembled and to talk with specialists.

    Learn more