Discover how smart kitchen layouts and the work triangle improve flow, space, and efficiency.
Discover how smart kitchen layouts and the work triangle improve flow, space, and efficiency.
Having a good layout for your to the refrigerator and back to the sink should be not less than 12 feet total nor more than 27 feet. Each triangle leg should measure between 4 and 9 feet in length. The kitchen isles should be at least 42 to 48 inches wide to allow people to move around easily and for appliances to be opened with ease.
When selecting the floor plan for your kitchen, here are basic kitchen layouts to consider:
A walk-through kitchen design, featuring cabinets on two sides. The Galley design or corridor kitchen is common in many apartments and open-plan layouts. Space is limited, so try and optimize or consolidate your countertop areas.
Be careful of your appliance location. You do not want to have your appliances blocking any exits or not be able to open fully because of cabinetry when they are opened. Try and use pull-out wall cabinets to conserve space. Economize space with floor and wall cabinetry and try and plan for over the range microwaves or look for the new models that pull out like drawers.
One line of cabinets is placed around a corner. L shaped kitchen designs are great for small spaces and open-plan rooms.
This kitchen design locates all appliances and counter space along two walls in the corner of the kitchen space at approximately a 90-degree angle. An L shaped kitchen design allows for a compact workspace while freeing up much needed space for a dining area or storage.
In this layout the sink, cooking range and refrigerator are placed in a single line as per the desired order that fulfills your needs better.
You can have your sink placed in the midst of the counter opposite to the longest wall of the kitchen and this arrangement will result you in increased efficiency while cooking. This layout offers a free workspace that is not overcrowded and on the other hand is not widespread so that you waste your time and energy in going one place to another. The work triangle is placed in a straight work line along with a wall and all the three major kitchen constituting factors in the same line.
A U-shaped kitchen design usually has one entrance and all counter space and appliances are built into a U shape. The kitchen triangle concept is definitely recommended to create good flow between appliances.
U shape kitchens are often designed with a view through a wall or opening between rooms. This effect is great for small spaces such as apartments as it will open up your kitchen to the rest of your home. If you are planning a U shaped kitchen design where an opening exists in a wall, be aware not to sacrifice cabinet space and electrical outlets when taking that wall out. If you are unsure whether this wall is a load bearing wall, refer to your building plans or better yet seek professional advice.
Adding an island is the most common way to achieve multiple work centers in a kitchen. An island suits many modern house styles where there is enough space and can provide several small workstations along its perimeter. It is also a great place to present a buffet when entertaining.
The provision of an extra sink in the kitchen is a great way to create an extra workstation and greater versatility for two or more people working in the kitchen
All counter space and appliances are built into a G shape with one entrance and extended countertop/breakfast bar creating the ‘G’ shape. The work triangle concept is recommended to create good flow between zones.
Most G shape kitchens are designed with an opening between rooms. This design is great for open plan spaces as it creates a definition between rooms such as the kitchen and dining room. advice.
At Carolina Dream Kitchen and Baths, we specialize in designing and remodeling kitchens that fit your lifestyle. Whether you're reworking your layout or planning a full renovation, our team proudly serves homeowners throughout the Raleigh-Durham area. Let us help you create a kitchen that’s both beautiful and functional.