One of the most significant benefits that kitchen renovations give to homeowners is the opportunity to have their kitchen layout exactly how they would like it, notwithstanding any constraints created by the size of their kitchen or their budget. Having a kitchen layout in a certain way may not be something that some people give much thought to, especially if they liked the existing kitchen when they moved into that house.
However, with a kitchen renovation, you have a chance to completely reconfigure how your kitchen is laid out and have it done so it suits how you like to work in the kitchen, what you find the most convenient, as well as having your preference of a specific style. Alternatively, it might be that you have never considered how you might alter the layout of your kitchen, or that you were unaware of the most popular kitchen layouts that are used in millions of kitchens around the world.
If any of those scenarios ring true, then please read on as we are going to explore in some detail what the five most popular options are for a renovated kitchen’s layout, and highlight some of the reasons that they work so that you can consider them.
Kitchen Layout #1: U-Shaped
As the name suggests, a U-shaped kitchen layout has three sides, with each side ideally being of equal length, although it can also be the case that each side is a different length. U-shaped layouts usually have the kitchen area separate from others such as the dining area, and they can either be open plan or enclosed with a wall on each side. One major benefit of U-shaped kitchens is that there is lots of worktop space and are therefore ideal for larger families.
Kitchen Layout #2: L-Shaped
This is another kitchen layout that uses a letter to identify its shape, with the major difference with this one being that it utilises two sides instead of three. In most scenarios, one side of this kitchen layout will be where the sink is located, and the second side where the cooker or oven and hob are located. Suited to smaller kitchens, and extremely versatile, the L-shaped kitchen layout also allows for freer movement around the kitchen.
Kitchen Layout #3: Single Wall
Continuing with our theme of the name of the layout explaining exactly how it is configured, it will not surprise you to learn that this is a kitchen with a single length of worktop and units. This configuration is most likely to be used in small kitchen spaces and is often found in apartments rather than larger homes. It does require a degree of innovation so that both a sink and a cooking appliance can be included, not least because of the electrical safety considerations.
Kitchen Layout #4: Galley Kitchen
A galley kitchen has the same number of sides as the L-shaped layout, namely two, but the major difference is that each individual side is located opposite and runs parallel to the other. Ideal for narrow spaces, galley kitchens are considered to be one of the most functional given that everything is close to hand and easily accessible along its length, making them a real favourite of professional chefs.
Kitchen Layout #5: Island Kitchen
For kitchens that have sufficient space, an island kitchen is a popular choice. Most commonly created with an L-shape along two walls, and an island unit in the centre, it provides loads of worktop space as well as plenty of cabinet space too. The island can be utilised in several ways, including having a hob, but more often than not it is a focal point in the kitchen where the family can sit and eat together.
