kitchen layouts
the traditional work triangle that separates the sink, range and refrigerator has evolved into a more practical "work zone" concept.
we have gone from the traditional kitchen, where one person prepared meals to a multi-purpose room and a multiple-cook room, and this evolution has changed us from looking at one work triangle to multiple triangles, or “zones.'" with that in mind, we have to increase clearances and look at adding comfortable spaces in the kitchen.
01
the pullman kitchen
the one-wall kitchen layout is generally found in studio or loft spaces because it’s the ultimate space saver. cabinets and appliances are fixed on a single wall. most modern designs also include an island, which evolves the space into a sort of galley style with a walk-through corridor.
02
the galley kitchen
this efficient, “lean” layout is ideal for smaller spaces and one-cook kitchens. the galley kitchen, also called a walk-through kitchen, is characterized by two walls opposite of each other—or two parallel countertops with a walkway in between them. galleys make the best use of every square inch of space, and there are no troublesome corner cabinets to configure, which can add to a cabinetry budget.
03
the L-shaped kitchen
an L-shaped kitchen solves the problem of maximizing corner space, and it’s a smart design for small and medium sized kitchens. the versatile L-shaped kitchen consists of countertops on two adjoining walls that are perpendicular, forming an L. the “legs” of the L can be as long as you want, though keeping them less than 12 to 15 feet will allow you to efficiently use the space.
these are just a few examples of the most popular layouts used in today’s modern kitchen. but what is important is to think beyond the basic work triangle, kitchens come in all shapes — from the space-saving galley to wraparound U-shaped or L-shaped kitchens to workstations that are curvy, pentagonal, or wedge-shaped. think outside of the box in a way that maximizes your kitchen space. at the end of the day, it has to work with you in mind.