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The Top 91 Kitchen Layout Ideas

The Top 91 Kitchen Layout Ideas

  • Next Luxury / Home Design
  • by — Kendrick Hulse

Kitchen Ideas

Stripped down to the bare necessities, most home kitchens have a lot in common. You’ll find a sink, refrigerator, and some type of cooktop. You might also find additional appliances like a convection oven or dishwasher.

What really differentiates one kitchen space from another is the layout design. This plays a major role in how functional the room is. Some kitchen layouts lend themselves to popular decor trends better than others.

Getting the most out of your kitchen floor plan is important. Check out these top kitchen layout design ideas to learn what you can improve about your own cooking space.

1. Cabinet

Cabinetry is the backbone of nearly every kitchen layout. So maximizing your home’s available cabinet space should be the first step of any kitchen renovation.

Along with fitting as many cabinets as possible into your kitchen, you should also focus on including plenty of variety in your final design. Consider switching out some of your regular kitchen cabinet doors for glass ones to display china or stemware.

Supplement standard-size kitchen cabinets with smaller cupboards tucked around built-in appliances. Fill awkward gaps in your cabinetry with open shelves for additional storage space. Take advantage of structural elements — like a kitchen island — to boost the number of cabinets and drawers in your kitchen layout.

Cabinet Kitchen Layout Ideas -allmaintain

Source: @allmaintain via Instagram

Cabinet Kitchen Layout Ideas -carpentrytime

Source: @carpentrytime via Instagram

Cabinet Kitchen Layout Ideas -corbelrenovation

Source: @corbelrenovation via Instagram

Cabinet Kitchen Layout Ideas -ellecordesign

Source: @ellecordesign via Instagram

Cabinet Kitchen Layout Ideas -er_kitchencabinets

Source: @er_kitchencabinets via Instagram

Cabinet Kitchen Layout Ideas -grappenhallkitchens

Source: @grappenhallkitchens via Instagram

Cabinet Kitchen Layout Ideas -medallioncabinetry

Source: @medallioncabinetry via Instagram

Cabinet Kitchen Layout Ideas -my_home_pics_x_

Source: @my_home_pics_x_ via Instagram

Cabinet Kitchen Layout Ideas -my_mindful_home

Source: @my_mindful_home via Instagram

Cabinet Kitchen Layout Ideas -thewrightkitchen

Source: @thewrightkitchen via Instagram

Cabinet Kitchen Layout Ideas -w_sierakowska

Source: @w_sierakowska via Instagram

2. Corner

Corners can gum up an otherwise efficient kitchen layout. While cabinet doors are hard to fit in tight corners, you also don’t want to let the space sit unused.

Specially designed corner cupboards provide ample storage without the awkwardness of regular cabinet doors.

Choose cabinetry with a built-in lazy susan or pull-out shelves to make accessing your kitchen goods easier. You can even install special corner drawers to match.

Use your countertop corners to stash cooking utensils, a spice rack, cookbooks, or miscellaneous decor. It’s also the perfect spot to store small countertop appliances within reach yet out of the way.

Corner Kitchen Layout Ideas -c_refinish

Source: @c_refinish via Instagram

Corner Kitchen Layout Ideas -houzetohome

Source: @houzetohome via Instagram

Corner Kitchen Layout Ideas -jackieglassinc

Source: @jackieglassinc via Instagram

Corner Kitchen Layout Ideas -little_house_on_dartmoor

Source: @little_house_on_dartmoor via Instagram

Corner Kitchen Layout Ideas -my.favorite.place

Source: @my.favorite.place_ via Instagram

Corner Kitchen Layout Ideas -sylvieathome

Source: @sylvieathome via Instagram

Corner Kitchen Layout Ideas -the_carter_home

Source: @the_carter_home via Instagram

Corner Kitchen Layout Ideas -thehadleyhome_

Source: @thehadleyhome_ via Instagram

Corner Kitchen Layout Ideas -village_terrace

Source: @village_terrace via Instagram

Corner Kitchen Layout Ideas -wood_mode

Source: @wood_mode via Instagram

3. Countertop

Your kitchen floor plan ultimately determines its functionality. This includes the layout of your countertop space and how they serve (or hinder) your household as a whole.

There are very few scenarios where a smaller kitchen counter can be considered beneficial.

It’s a good idea to ensure every appliance in your kitchen — sink, stovetop, dishwasher, oven — is surrounded by open countertop space to be used as a work surface.

Aside from your main countertop, play around with your kitchen layout by including some extra surfaces like a breakfast bar or dedicated workstation. When not in use for their dedicated purpose, these surfaces can also double as regular counter space.

Counter Top Kitchen Layout Ideas _elizabeth_dalton

Source: @_elizabeth_dalton via Instagram

Counter Top Kitchen Layout Ideas -clearcutandco

Source: @clearcutandco via Instagram

Counter Top Kitchen Layout Ideas -cmfreshperspectives

Source: @cmfreshperspectives via Instagram

Counter Top Kitchen Layout Ideas -hammerandnail.in

Source: @hammerandnail.in_ via Instagram

Counter Top Kitchen Layout Ideas -homeinteriorsinspiration

Source: @homeinteriorsinspiration via Instagram

Counter Top Kitchen Layout Ideas -medallioncabinetry

Source: @medallioncabinetry via Instagram

Counter Top Kitchen Layout Ideas -ournumbereleven

Source: @ournumbereleven via Instagram

Counter Top Kitchen Layout Ideas -slashdesigngroup

Source: @slashdesigngroup via Instagram

Counter Top Kitchen Layout Ideas -streamlinedproperties

Source: @streamlinedproperties via Instagram

Counter Top Kitchen Layout Ideas -jesuscabinetandgranite

Source: @jesuscabinetandgranite via Instagram

4. Island

Nearly every homeowner wants an island in their larger kitchen. While this design element doesn’t work in every home, it’s a great asset for any open-concept kitchen layout.

If possible, ensure your kitchen island meets several needs. One popular solution is to include bar top seating along one side for a simple, casual dining surface. Go with barstools that nest underneath the countertop so you don’t lose valuable floor space.

Before installing a kitchen island, think carefully about its location. You want the island close enough to your regular kitchen counter so everything is within arm’s reach. But you don’t want spacing so tight that your appliance doors get in the way.

Interior Kitchen Layout Ideas -djanthony

Source: @djanthony via Instagram

Interior Kitchen Layout Ideas -emg_charleston

Source: @emg_charleston via Instagram

Interior Kitchen Layout Ideas -fruitfulinteriorsandstaging

Source: @fruitfulinteriorsandstaging via Instagram

Interior Kitchen Layout Ideas -gregoriangroup

Source: @gregoriangroup via Instagram

Interior Kitchen Layout Ideas -home_editor_18

Source: @home_editor_18 via Instagram

Interior Kitchen Layout Ideas -leighantiques

Source: @leighantiques via Instagram

Interior Kitchen Layout Ideas -ontheavenue_interior

Source: @ontheavenue_interior via Instagram

Interior Kitchen Layout Ideas -our_cheshire_berrington

Source: @our_cheshire_berrington via Instagram

Interior Kitchen Layout Ideas -rocciatiles

 Source: @rocciatiles via Instagram

Interior Kitchen Layout Ideas -charlotteclarkhome

Source: @charlotteclarkhome via Instagram

5. Modern

Modern interior design values sleek, geometric spaces. If you prefer a modern design for your dream kitchen, it’s important to consider these design tenets in your floor plan as well as your decor choices.

Avoid crowding appliances and other focal points too close together. You want every design element in your kitchen to have plenty of room to breathe. Opting for mostly white kitchen decor can help open up tight spaces.

Keep your cabinetry, countertops, and appliances clean and simple. The same goes for the kitchen island if your home has one. Instead, draw the eye above your kitchen layout with some statement light fixtures hanging from the ceiling.

Modern Kitchen Layout Ideas -3220_house

Source: @3220_house via Instagram

Modern Kitchen Layout Ideas -aandbkitchenandbath

Source: @aandbkitchenandbath via Instagram

Modern Kitchen Layout Ideas -astercucine_official

Source: @astercucine_official via Instagram

Modern Kitchen Layout Ideas -bykrueger

Source: @bykrueger via Instagram

Modern Kitchen Layout Ideas -home_centered_design

Source: @home_centered_design via Instagram

Modern Kitchen Layout Ideas -kimberleyhomes

Source: @kimberleyhomes via Instagram

Modern Kitchen Layout Ideas -luccadesign_

Source: @luccadesign_ via Instagram

Modern Kitchen Layout Ideas -sullivanscabinets

Source: @sullivanscabinets via Instagram

Modern Kitchen Layout Ideas -yeka_group

Source: @yeka_group via Instagram

6. One Wall

A one-wall kitchen can feel incredibly limiting, especially since open-concept kitchens are so popular right now. Designing the floor plan for a single-wall kitchen means balancing the workspace and storage space.

Kitchen islands can boost counter space and house an extra appliance or the kitchen sink. But an island isn’t an option for all kitchens. A galley kitchen is a perfect example of not being able to supplement a small kitchen design by just adding an island.

Install both lower and upper cabinets to ensure your kitchen has plenty of storage space. Use the upper cabinet for extra storage or to display decor. Since open wall space is in short supply, turn to design details like your backsplash and fixtures.

One Wall Kitchen Layout Ideas -athomewitholivia

Source: @athomewitholivia via Instagram

One Wall Kitchen Layout Ideas -bellwayhometorhead

Source: @bellwayhometorhead via Instagram

One Wall Kitchen Layout Ideas -bonne__maison

Source: @bonne__maison via Instagram

One Wall Kitchen Layout Ideas -cosinteriors

Source: @cosinteriors via Instagram

One Wall Kitchen Layout Ideas -davia_at_home

Source: @davia_at_home via Instagram

One Wall Kitchen Layout Ideas -down.to.earth.photography

Source: @down.to_.earth_.photography via Instagram

One Wall Kitchen Layout Ideas -fleurmeme

Source: @fleurmeme via Instagram

One Wall Kitchen Layout Ideas -frenchflairfarmhouse

Source: @frenchflairfarmhouse via Instagram

One Wall Kitchen Layout Ideas -happyhautehome

Source: @happyhautehome via Instagram

One Wall Kitchen Layout Ideas -thechoatechateau

Source: @thechoatechateau via Instagram

7. Rustic

Open-concept modern farmhouse design might have been one of the biggest kitchen trends of the past decade, but you don’t need a large kitchen to pull this style off. Using rustic decor in a small kitchen can actually emphasize the warm and cozy aspects of this aesthetic.

You don’t want your rustic kitchen to feel too expansive, so include an island (even a small one) in your layout. Of course, this suggestion doesn’t apply if you’re working with an ultra-compact space, like a galley kitchen layout.

You want your rustic-inspired kitchen to be a space where family and guests choose to gather. Leave room in your new kitchen design for a dining table or set aside counter space for a casual breakfast bar.

Rustic Kitchen Layout Ideas -bigfootcabinet

Source: @bigfootcabinet via Instagram

Rustic Kitchen Layout Ideas -cabinetswarehouse

Source: @cabinetswarehouse via Instagram

Rustic Kitchen Layout Ideas -decorating_solutions_by_alicia

Source: @decorating_solutions_by_alicia via Instagram

Rustic Kitchen Layout Ideas -emmyonthelane

Source: @emmyonthelane via Instagram

Rustic Kitchen Layout Ideas -lostandfoundcottage

Source: @lostandfoundcottage via Instagram

Rustic Kitchen Layout Ideas -nedda.roach

Source: @nedda.roach_ via Instagram

Rustic Kitchen Layout Ideas -styledtexascharm

Source: @styledtexascharm via Instagram

Rustic Kitchen Layout Ideas -transformedinteriors

Source: @transformedinteriors via Instagram

Rustic Kitchen Layout Ideas -updatemycape

Source: @updatemycape via Instagram

Rustic Kitchen Layout Ideas -waltermadestudio

Source: @waltermadestudio via Instagram

8. Small

Most homeowners know exactly what their dream kitchen would be like if they had all of the room in the world. But great small kitchen design ideas can be harder to come by. For a small kitchen layout to work, it’s important to embrace the available space, not fight it.

Don’t be afraid to buck traditional kitchen layout ideas for what works best in your space. Many of these “rules” (like the kitchen work triangle) just won’t work in a small kitchen design.

Free up counter space by installing wall cabinets or open shelving. A rolling table or bar cart can be used as a temporary island. Avoid space-consuming decor and, instead, turn to details like your kitchen‘s backsplash tiles.

Small Kitchen Layout Ideas -be_kind_and_design

Source: @be_kind_and_design via Instagram

Small Kitchen Layout Ideas -beautheboler

Source: @beautheboler via Instagram

Small Kitchen Layout Ideas -claytonpersimmon

Source: @claytonpersimmon via Instagram

Small Kitchen Layout Ideas -cletile and concept_renovations

Source: @concept_renovations via Instagram

Small Kitchen Layout Ideas -corbelrenovation

Source: @corbelrenovation via Instagram

Small Kitchen Layout Ideas -eff93fy

Source: @eff93fy via Instagram

Small Kitchen Layout Ideas -enjoyingthelilthings

Source: @enjoyingthelilthings via Instagram

Small Kitchen Layout Ideas -no.23andme

Source: @no.23andme via Instagram

Small Kitchen Layout Ideas -stepbystep.home and decorandobyvalentinna

Source: @decorandobyvalentinna via Instagram

Small Kitchen Layout Ideas -thenewsmallhouse

Source: @thenewsmallhouse via Instagram

9. U Shape

In many ways, a U-shaped kitchen combines the best of both a galley and L-shaped layout. You get plenty of counter space that’s easily within reach. Plus, U-shaped kitchens tend to be a bit wider than galley-style ones.

One downside to U-shaped kitchens is that they can feel quite closed off. Invest in high-quality light fixtures for the space, and take full advantage of any nearby windows.

If you love the look and functionality of a U-shaped kitchen layout but have an open-concept space, it’s not too hard to fake it. Just add a breakfast bar to the open side of your kitchen to complete the U-shape.

U Shape Kitchen Layout Ideas -bungalowrenovationglenview

Source: @bungalowrenovationglenview via Instagram

U Shape Kitchen Layout Ideas -christinademossla

Source: @christinademossla via Instagram

U Shape Kitchen Layout Ideas -cotswoldcornerhouse

Source: @cotswoldcornerhouse via Instagram

U Shape Kitchen Layout Ideas -from_madhouse_to_madhome

Source: @from_madhouse_to_madhome via Instagram

U Shape Kitchen Layout Ideas -maison_jolimont

Source: @maison_jolimont via Instagram

U Shape Kitchen Layout Ideas -niftynatshome

Source: @niftynatshome via Instagram

U Shape Kitchen Layout Ideas -no.ordinary.gal

Source: @no.ordinary.gal_ via Instagram

U Shape Kitchen Layout Ideas -thewrightkitchen

Source: @thewrightkitchen via Instagram

U Shape Kitchen Layout Ideas -whereihomeandroam

Source: @whereihomeandroam via Instagram

U Shape Kitchen Layout Ideas -willow__cottage

Source: @willow__cottage via Instagram

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Kitchen Layout FAQ

What are the most common kitchen layout types?

Most homes feature a galley kitchen, U-shaped kitchen, L-shaped kitchen, island kitchen, one-wall kitchen, or peninsula kitchen (also known as a G-shaped kitchen). You might not realize it yet, but there’s a good chance your kitchen falls into one of these popular styles.

Knowing which layout you’re working with can be a huge help in the design process. You can also compare your options to see if another layout might suit your kitchen space even better.

What is the kitchen triangle theory?

In brief: the kitchen sink, cooktop, and refrigerator form the points of the triangle, and each “side” should measure between 4 and 9 feet. The triangle should be clear of any obstructions, like counters or cabinets.

Many home designers believe that a perfect kitchen must adhere to the work triangle concept. But this concept isn’t about aesthetics. Instead, it’s about making the kitchen layout as functional as possible with whatever space is available.

If your kitchen doesn’t fit this ideal model, don’t worry. It’s not very hard to find a kitchen designer who disagrees with the work triangle theory altogether!

Kendrick Hulse

Writer

Kendrick holds a bachelor’s degree in Communication Studies from the University of Wisconsin. She has written professionally for five years and specializes in home and garden design, with past experience working in the residential gardening industry.

Kendrick holds a bachelor’s degree in Communication Studies from the University of Wisconsin. She has written professionally for five years and specializes in home and garden design, with past experience working in the residential gardening industry.

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