5 Popular Kitchen Layouts

We all know how important it is to have the right kitchen layout. Your kitchen layout brings together your countertops, storage spaces, and appliances in ways that create a certain aesthetic and define the functionality of your kitchen. Bringing all these things harmoniously is the secret to all great kitchens. However the individual elements are designed, how they are brought together is the difference between success and failure. So, as you renovate your kitchen, buy a house or do research, consider these 5 popular kitchen layouts. 

One-Wall Kitchen Layout

The one-wall kitchen layout used to be known as the “Pullman kitchen”. As the name suggests, it uses just one wall in its design.  It uses appliances and cabinets placed against one wall. In small homes such as lofts and studio apartments, the one-wall kitchen layout is ideal. The layout is organized around the available area, which is why it’s so ideal in situations where you don’t have much room to be creative. 

Galley Kitchen Layout

The galley kitchen layout also goes by the name “corridor kitchen”. It is a very lean option, admired for its efficiency. It is also ideal for small spaces. It is characterized by using two walls that face each other.

With the galley kitchen layout, you optimize your use of space. In many cases, there aren’t any corner cabinets you have to worry about. 

You should seriously consider having your work area on one, rather than both of the walls. This will make it easier to move around and safer as well. 

L-Shaped Kitchen Layout

The L-shaped kitchen layout is one of the most dynamic and streamlined kitchen layouts there is. Units are built on both sides of the “L” corner and there are many work surfaces to play with. 

It gives you a lot of flexibility. If you have a large kitchen, you can have an island with a beautiful quartz countertop which would just draw people in and have such a dramatic effect on the space. 

For some people, the use of an “L” corner for more traditional designs, results in a waste of storage space. You can use pull-outs in the corner to maximize your use of space and increase functionality. 

U-Shaped Kitchen Layout

A U-shaped kitchen layout forms a “U” shape along three walls, defining where you cook and separating the kitchen from everywhere else. It is also known as a horseshoe kitchen layout, for obvious reasons. 

It provides loads of storage space, is so efficient in terms of work spaces, and allows for many people to circulate around the kitchen without creating a traffic jam. 

You can have one continuous work space in the kitchen using a U-shaped kitchen layout. 

Sometimes, two corners become pinch points. You can use carousels and oull-outs to maximize the use of corner space and make everything more reachable. 

For smaller spaces, this layout can feel a bit claustrophobic. In that case, use open shelves instead of wall units, to make the layout feel more 

In smaller areas, the U-shaped layout can also create a closed-in feel. Open shelving rather than wall units can give the appearance of more open and larger space.