Most Popular Kitchen Layout and Floor Plan Ideas

Looking for somekitchen layout ideas. Got a small kitchen and need to maximize every inch? Got a huge kitchen and need to optimize the expansive layout? Got a tired old kitchen that you need a fresh kitchen layout design? Then this article is for you.

The kitchen is the heart of the home. You want it to have the best possible layout and functionality it can. Below, we’ll discuss several of the most common kitchen layouts and their pros and cons. Consider this article as a research supplement to your kitchen layout planner to be sure you’re designing the best possible space for you, your family, and your lifestyle.

Work Triangle Description: This is the layout many of us grew up hearing about as the holy grail of all kitchen layouts. It’s a classic, actually. In essence, the ideal work triangle layout is to have the primary and most-used appliances (e.g. fridge, range, sink) at corner points of a triangular workspace for maximum efficiency. Basically, you want to minimize the time and effort spent moving between said appliances.

Work Triangle Pros: Pivoting from fridge to sink to range is seamless and super efficient. That’s the whole idea behind this concept. It’s a classic, tried-and-true kitchen layout that comes into play within all other kitchen layouts.

Work Triangle Cons: The work triangle can become tricky business, perhaps even counterintuitive, in larger kitchens and those with islands. It’s important to see the forest through the trees in planning this type of kitchen layout.

Work Triangle Tips: Keep the work triangle fairly tight, regardless of the size of your kitchen, so as to preserve some energy for dining and interacting with loved ones over the food when it’s done.

Single Wall Kitchen Description: A kitchen in which all appliances, cabinets, and counter spaces are positioned along one wall. Single wall kitchens are usually found in small homes, because they are small yet efficient spaces that can be disguised as needed in a small space (read: studio apartment or similar).

Single Wall Kitchen Pros: Ingredients, appliances, and food prep space all tend to be within easy reach in a single wall kitchen layout.

Single Wall Kitchen Cons: Due to their small size and the traditional appliances requirements, single wall kitchens tend to be very limited in counter space. Food prep and multiple cooks pose a challenge.

Single Wall Kitchen Tips: Typically, the sink sits in between the range and fridge in a single wall kitchen, for easy cleanup (not to mention aesthetic balance). Consider opting for compact or custom (smaller) appliances to maximize the limited space. Also, throw in an island opposite the single cabineted wall for a great storage, efficiency, and people-gathering option.