9 TYPES OF KITCHEN LAYOUTS TO INSPIRE YOUR SPACE
Whether you're an adventurous foodie or love to entertain, the right kitchen layout design can make all the difference in how you experience and enjoy your space.
Explore these nine different kitchen layouts to help you consider factors like cabinet placement, work zones and the best kitchen layout for your available space. Each kitchen floor plan offers unique advantages and design possibilities to suit a variety of styles and creative rhythms.
What are the most common kitchen layouts?
Some of the most popular kitchen layouts are U-shaped, L-shaped, galley and one-wall kitchens. Variations include G-shaped kitchens and layouts that incorporate islands. You may be familiar with these 6 common types of kitchen layouts, but there are even more variations that can help you create your ideal layout. Read on to explore the many options to find which one is right for you.
1. U-SHAPED KITCHEN LAYOUT
The U-shaped kitchen layout is a versatile and space-efficient design that maximizes counter space and storage options. This kitchen layout option features workspaces on three connecting walls, creating a U shape that allows for easy movement between different work zones. The fourth side of the kitchen space can be open to another room for a semi-open concept, or it can be enclosed by another wall with a doorway.
IDEAL FOR: Medium to large kitchens and households with multiple cooks.
U-SHAPED KITCHEN DESIGN TIPS
Create a cohesive look with your kitchen cabinets by using matching upper and lower cabinetry on all three walls. Reduce visual clutter in this three-sided space by creating a small-appliance “garage” within a cupboard. Consider adding an accent wall at the back of the U to create a clear focal point. If the space is large enough, you can keep guests in the center of the action in a U-shaped kitchen with an island incorporated into the design. If your kitchen is average to small, skip the island to keep paths clear from one side of the kitchen to the other.
WHERE TO PUT APPLIANCES IN A U-SHAPED LAYOUT
The U-shaped kitchen layout allows you to create a classic kitchen work triangle that helps reduce steps and maximize flow in the kitchen. To achieve this, try positioning your refrigerator and range or cooktop on opposite ends of the U, and place the sink with a dishwasher near the center of the U shape. For added convenience, install an over-the-range microwave above your cooking space.
PROS OF A U-SHAPED KITCHEN LAYOUT:
Often includes plenty of cabinet storage and counter space
Space-efficient workflow between fridge, sink and stove
Good for multiple cooks working together
Can fit an island in larger spaces
CONS OF A U-SHAPED KITCHEN LAYOUT:
May feel cramped in small footprints
Can be less social if enclosed
Corner spaces can be hard to use effectively
2. L-SHAPED KITCHEN LAYOUT
The L-shaped kitchen layout floorplan features cabinets and appliances arranged along two adjacent walls, forming an L. This design is highly adaptable and can work well in both small and large spaces, offering an open feel and good traffic flow. An island or kitchen cart can easily be added to an open-concept take on this kitchen layout design.
IDEAL FOR: Small- to medium-sized kitchens and open-concept living areas.
L-SHAPED KITCHEN DESIGN INSPIRATION
Maximize corner space with a lazy Susan or pull-out organizers. Add a kitchen island or dining table for extra prep space and casual dining. Extend the space at each end of the L by adding additional bar carts or a cabinet for a stylish coffee bar to help start your mornings right.
APPLIANCE PLACEMENT IN AN L-SHAPED KITCHEN
Place the refrigerator at one end of the L, the range or cooktop on the other, and the sink in-between to create an efficient work triangle. Create work zones for prep, cooking and cleaning by grouping appliances together by function. For example, placing the dishwasher next to the sink makes easy work of transferring dishes. For L-shaped kitchens with islands, consider installing a cooktop and wall oven in the island to maintain the work triangle, while also keeping any guests seated there front and center. Keep work stations away from doors to avoid traffic-flow issues.
PROS OF AN L-SHAPED KITCHEN LAYOUT:
- Adaptable to different kitchen sizes
Open layout with good traffic flow
Flexible for adding an island or dining area
Efficient work triangle design
CONS OF AN L-SHAPED KITCHEN LAYOUT:
- Limited counter space in small kitchens
Challenging corner cabinet access
Less storage compared to U-shaped kitchens
May feel undefined in very large spaces
3. G-SHAPED KITCHEN LAYOUT
The G-shaped kitchen layout is an extension of the U-shaped design, with an additional peninsula or partial fourth wall of cabinetry. This layout offers extensive storage and counter space, making it ideal for avid cooks and large families. It also offers a convenient way to add a bit of seating without taking up a ton of extra space.
IDEAL FOR: Large kitchens with ample space and households that require maximum storage and work areas.
DESIGNING A G-SHAPED KITCHEN
A G-shaped kitchen floor plan offers lots of counter and cabinet space. You can take advantage of this to create distinct zones for prepping, cooking and cleaning by organizing cabinetry to fit the function of nearby appliances. Incorporate a built-in desk area for meal planning or as a small home office, or use the extension area to add a few bar stools for casual seating. Use lighter colored cabinets on top to visually break up the cabinet-heavy layout, paired with a bold color on the bottom cabinets.
G-SHAPED KITCHEN APPLIANCE LAYOUT
Place your refrigerator near the entrance in your kitchen so guests and household members can quickly access drinks and snacks while you’re cooking. Place a dishwasher near a corner to help limit traffic interruptions when it’s open. This is an ideal kitchen layout for double wall ovens and large, built-in refrigerators to accommodate extensive cooking and storage needs. Shop KitchenAid® double wall ovens to help maximize your cooking capacity.
PROS OF A G-SHAPED KITCHEN LAYOUT:
Offers additional counter space
Creates partial room division
Provides casual seating
Works well in medium-sized kitchens
CONS OF A G-SHAPED KITCHEN LAYOUT:
Can disrupt traffic flow
May feel cramped in small spaces
Less flexible than islands
Limited corner cabinet access
4. GALLEY KITCHEN LAYOUT
This kitchen layout option features two parallel walls of cabinets and appliances with a central walkway. The galley kitchen layout works to maximize space in narrow areas often found in smaller homes or apartments. With its linear configuration, the galley kitchen can create a highly functional cooking environment, optimizing a small kitchen layout, where everything is within easy reach. If planned right, the layout's compact nature allows for excellent workflow efficiency, making it a popular choice for professional and home kitchens with limited square footage.
IDEAL FOR: Small-to medium-sized kitchens with limited space and one cook.
GALLEY KITCHEN DESIGN INSPIRATION:
There are several design options for those hoping to optimize their kitchen layout design with a limited footprint. Try using light colors and reflective surfaces to make the space feel larger. Install upper cabinets with glass fronts or open shelving to add depth and visual interest. Opt for tall, ceiling-height cabinets to maximize storage space. Finally, consider handleless cabinets for a streamlined look and finish it all off with statement flooring to create personality.
APPLIANCE INTEGRATION FOR A GALLEY KITCHEN:
When it comes to appliance placement in a galley kitchen layout, you can still maximize your kitchen floor plan. Position the refrigerator at one end of the galley, with the range or cooktop near the other end of the same wall. Place the sink between them on the opposite wall for an efficient workflow. Create a streamlined look with flush-mount appliances and integrated handles that not only look great, but reduce the chance of catching as you walk by. Consider a counter-depth refrigerator or a flush mount over-the-range microwave, like this model from KitchenAid brand, to free up counterspace and maximize the narrow walkway. To reduce visual clutter, you could also opt for panel-ready appliances that can be fitted with exteriors that match your cabinets.
PROS OF A GALLEY KITCHEN LAYOUT:
Space-efficient cooking layout
Great for narrow spaces
Good counter space for its size
Can provide clear traffic flow
CONS OF A GALLEY KITCHEN LAYOUT:
Can feel cramped for multiple cooks
Limited dining/socializing space
Potential lack of natural light
Can be difficult to fit deep appliances
SHOP KITCHENAID® APPLIANCES IDEAL FOR GALLEY KITCHENS
5. ISLAND KITCHEN LAYOUT
A type of kitchen layout perfect for entertainers is one with an island. An island kitchen layout incorporates a freestanding workspace in the center of the kitchen, offering additional prep area, storage and often, seating. This versatile layout design creates a central focal point that can enhance both functionality and social interaction in the kitchen. Kitchen layouts with islands can include nearly any arrangement, but typically fit best in larger kitchens with cabinets and appliances arranged on one to three sides of the island. This includes L-shaped kitchen island layouts, U-shaped kitchens and one-wall designs. An extra wide galley kitchen with an island often offers up the opportunity to incorporate appliances like undercounter refrigerators or wine coolers, which are convenient for entertaining.
IDEAL FOR: Medium to large kitchens and those who love to entertain.
DESIGN INSPIRATION FOR KITCHEN ISLANDS
Use the island as a focal point, adorning it with contrasting colors or materials. Add other design touches, such as pendant lighting above for ambiance and task lighting. Create a cozy or stylish seating area by adding bar stools that speak to your aesthetic. Or, prioritize additional storage by installing draws or undercounter appliances in the island, and incorporating a breakfast nook for seating elsewhere.
BEST APPLIANCE PLACEMENT IN KITCHEN LAYOUTS WITH ISLANDS
Different kitchen layouts paired with an island will work well with different appliance configurations. In large L or U types of kitchen layouts, installing a cooktop on the island, or alternatively, a sink and dishwasher, can help create a tighter kitchen work triangle to help reduce steps between work zones. Smaller kitchens with an island can keep appliances on the perimeter, leaving the island open for prepping and socializing. Consider an island-mount canopy hood, such as this model from KitchenAid brand, as an eye-catching centerpiece to make your kitchen pop. Or, keep sightlines open by opting for a downdraft cooktop, such as this model from KitchenAid brand. Place the refrigerator and wall ovens along the perimeter for easy access, using the kitchen work triangle principles to minimize extra steps.
PROS OF AN ISLAND KITCHEN LAYOUT:
- Extra workspace and storage
Social focal point for entertaining
Flexible design and shape options
Can improve traffic flow in large kitchens
CONS OF AN ISLAND KITCHEN LAYOUT:
- Generally requires ample space
Can disrupt work triangle if poorly placed
Potentially costly to install
SHOP KITCHENAID® APPLIANCES IDEAL FOR GALLEY KITCHENS
Downdraft cooktops from KitchenAid brand give you the ability to use an integrated ventilation system that doesn’t require a separate hood. Powerful BTU burners give you the ability to sear, simmer and melt with ease and the ventilation system is integrated right into the cooking surface to help remove smoke and odors as you cook.
6. ONE-WALL KITCHEN LAYOUT
The one-wall kitchen layout, also known as a single-wall kitchen, features all counters and appliances arranged along a single wall. This space-saving kitchen layout design is perfect for small apartments or open-concept living areas. By maximizing floor space and creating a streamlined aesthetic, this minimalist approach typically only requires 8-10 feet in width and can offer seamless integration with adjacent living spaces. When considering kitchen layout options for a new build, it can provide easier and less costly installation since all electrical, gas and water hookups are on one wall.
IDEAL FOR: Small spaces, studio apartments or as part of a larger open-concept area.
DESIGN INSPIRATION FOR SINGLE-WALL KITCHENS
When designing your single-wall kitchen, maximize vertical space with tall cabinets, using a mix of closed and open storage to create visual interest. Add a rolling kitchen cart for flexible additional workspace and storage, or add shelves to an adjoining wall for a stylish coffee station. You can also create additional storage by placing a freestanding pantry nearby or artfully arranging dishes within a display cabinet. If you have the space, you could also place a kitchen island or dining table in front of the wall of appliances to integrate seating, as well as an additional work space.
HOW TO ARRANGE APPLIANCES IN A LONG-WALL KITCHEN
Arrange appliances in the order in which you’ll use them for optimal flow. Start with a refrigerator for food storage at one end, a sink for cleaning and prep in the middle, and finally, your cooking appliances—like a range and microwave—at the other end. Organize cupboards near each work station to match the function, such as food storage containers near the refrigerator and pots and pans stored near the cooking appliances. Consider compact or apartment-sized appliances to save even more space. Alternatively, install statement-making commercial-style appliances that elevate your space, especially if your single-wall kitchen is visible from other areas of your home.
PROS OF A SINGLE-WALL KITCHEN LAYOUT:
Requires a minimal footprint
Can provide cost-effective installation
Creates an open, spacious feel
Easy to blend with other living areas
CONS OF A SINGLE-WALL KITCHEN LAYOUT:
Limited counter and storage space
Linear, rather than triangular workflow
Restricted appliance placement options
7. PENINSULA KITCHEN LAYOUT TYPE
A peninsula kitchen layout is similar to an L-shaped kitchen layout but with an attached peninsula that extends from one wall, creating additional counter space and storage. This design offers similar advantages as the U type of kitchen layout, but with additional seating thanks to the open side that acts like an attached island. The peninsula provides a flexible solution for kitchens with limited floor space, enhancing both functionality and social interaction.
IDEAL FOR: Medium-sized kitchens that need more counter space but can't accommodate a full island.
DESIGN INSPIRATION FOR A PENINSULA KITCHEN LAYOUT
Use the peninsula for casual dining, with bar stools on one side. Install pendant lights above it for a cozy atmosphere or bold lighting for a stylish focal point. Consider adding open shelving on the back of the peninsula for display and easy access to frequently used items. If using the peninsula as a room divider overlooking a full dining area, choose low-profile stools that can be tucked under the counter to help free up movement around the table.
APPLIANCE LAYOUT IDEAS FOR PENINSULA KITCHENS
A peninsula kitchen layout essentially creates a U-shaped kitchen with an open side. Follow the best practices for the U-style kind of kitchen layout, placing either your cleaning or cooking work zones on the peninsula for an ideal kitchen work triangle. Alternatively, you could follow an L-shaped kitchen floor plan and leave the peninsula open for food prep and seating. Position the refrigerator on the main wall for easy access from both the kitchen and dining area.
PROS OF A PENINSULA KITCHEN LAYOUT:
Extra counter and storage space
Creates partial room division
Offers seating options
Ideal for medium-sized kitchens
CONS OF A PENINSULA KITCHEN LAYOUT:
Potential traffic flow issues if not placed thoughtfully
Can feel cramped in small spaces
Less flexible than freestanding islands
May limit access to some cabinets
8. OPEN-CONCEPT KITCHEN LAYOUT
An open-concept kitchen layout eliminates traditional walls, creating a fluid, interconnected living space that seamlessly blends cooking, dining and socializing areas. This kitchen layout idea often allows for easier entertaining, and can make smaller homes feel more spacious. The layout often enables natural light to flow throughout the space, creates multiple sightlines, and provides flexibility in furniture and appliance placement, making it a popular choice for modern home design.
IDEAL FOR: Homes with an emphasis on entertaining and guest or family interaction.
OPEN KITCHEN LAYOUT DESIGN INSPIRATION
Try using consistent flooring throughout your open-concept kitchen living room floor plans to help unify the space. Create visual separation with a large island or peninsula. Incorporate design elements that complement the adjoining living areas for a cohesive look. Keep the color story consistent between your living, dining and kitchen spaces by using the same paint colors, wood tones or metallic accents. Use artwork, upholstery or pillows, and dish colors to help tie your decor together.
OPEN-CONCEPT KITCHEN APPLIANCE PLACEMENT
Choose appliances with a cohesive design aesthetic to help create a polished look. Consider panel-ready appliances that blend seamlessly with cabinetry for a streamlined appearance, or commercial-style appliances that make a bold statement in your kitchen that will be visible from other areas of the home. Built-in appliances are another good choice for open-concept layouts since they integrate with cabinetry for a cohesive look. When deciding where to place your large appliances, consider installing a slide-in range or cooktop into your kitchen island or peninsula that faces out toward other areas of your home. This may help further integrate the kitchen into the other living spaces and allow you to engage with guests while cooking.
PROS OF AN OPEN-CONCEPT KITCHEN LAYOUT:
Creates a spacious, social environment
Enables easy interaction between cooking and living areas
Offers flexible design options
Can increase natural light and ventilation
CONS OF AN OPEN-CONCEPT KITCHEN LAYOUT:
Reduced wall space for cabinetry and appliances
Cooking odors and noise less contained to kitchen
Requires consistent design across spaces
9. BROKEN U- OR L-SHAPED KITCHEN LAYOUTS
A broken U- or broken L-shaped kitchen layout is a modified version of the classic kitchen designs. These kitchen layouts create a break in the cabinetry that creates the U or L to allow for elements such as windows, doorways or pass-throughs. This kind of kitchen layout works well when there are multiple entrances in a kitchen’s floorplan, or when you want to break up the space and create a more open feel while still maintaining the functionality of the traditional layout. This kind of kitchen layout can help bring more natural light into a kitchen by building your cabinets around a window. The break can also be utilized to incorporate features like a bar seating area, a small island or a peninsula, depending on the available space.
WHAT IS A CLOSED KITCHEN FLOOR PLAN?
Closed kitchen floor plans include the kind of kitchen layouts that contain the kitchen in a single room, separated from other rooms in the house. This follows a traditional approach to home design. These types of kitchen layouts are particularly well-suited for galley, L-shaped, single-wall, and U-shaped kitchens. Closed kitchen floor plans do not generally work well with kitchen layouts that incorporate islands, peninsulas or G-shaped kitchens.
By containing cooking noise and odors, offering privacy during meal preparation, and creating a focused workspace, closed kitchens appeal to home cooks seeking a dedicated culinary zone. They work especially well in homes with limited square footage or for families who prefer a traditional, compartmentalized living space.
WEIGHING YOUR KITCHEN LAYOUT OPTIONS
When considering different kitchen layouts for your space and cooking style, consider factors such as:
Available space
Workflow and functionality
Storage needs
Entertaining preferences
Natural light and ventilation
Remember that the ideal kitchen layout design should balance aesthetics with practicality, creating a space that not only looks beautiful but also supports your culinary adventures and lifestyle.
BEST KIND OF KITCHEN LAYOUT FOR SMALL KITCHENS
Ideal small kitchen layouts include galley-style kitchens and U-shaped setups that maximize wall space for cabinets and countertops. One-wall kitchen layouts also work well in small, open-concept spaces. These layouts create compact, practical cooking zones that help keep everything within easy reach while maintaining a smooth workflow between key appliances. By prioritizing vertical storage, smart small-space design and maintaining clear walkways, homeowners can transform small kitchen layouts into highly functional spaces that feel larger and more organized.
BEST KIND OF KITCHEN LAYOUT FOR LARGE KITCHENS
Large kitchens give you the freedom to choose from many different kitchen layouts. The U-shaped, G-shaped, and L-shaped types of kitchen layouts take advantage of ample space by providing lots of cupboards and counters. The U-shaped layout stands out as particularly advantageous, offering lots storage, extensive counter space, and a space-efficient work triangle that allows multiple cooks to operate simultaneously. This layout provides exceptional functionality by creating distinct work zones and enabling easy movement between cooking, cleaning and preparation areas.
Additionally, large U- and L-type kitchen layouts can easily incorporate a central island, transforming the space into a social hub that supports both cooking and entertaining. Extra large kitchens may even accommodate a double island setup, perfect for preparing large meals and inviting guests to join in the making.
