Designing the perfect kitchen is both an art and a science. It takes careful planning, lots of measuring and an understanding of the space. At the same time, homeowners must also have a clear vision of what they want their homes to look like. If you’re struggling for inspiration, we’re here to help! Make a more informed decision with our guide to kitchen layouts, but also take a visit to a store where you can view bespoke high end kitchens in the heart of Bath City. Together, we’ll explore each of the most popular designs and which types of homes they’re most suitable for.
*Collaborative Post
L-shaped Kitchens
An L-shaped kitchen layout typically features worktops on two adjoining walls that meet to form a right angle.
Usually, it includes a mix of base and wall cabinets, with one leg of the “L” often used for major appliances such as the stove, oven, and fridge-freezer. At the same time, the other can accommodate the sink and additional counter space for food preparation.
L-shaped kitchens are especially great for social homes. By leaving one side open, you can easily incorporate a dining area or a breakfast!
Equally important is that the L-shaped design minimises traffic through the kitchen, as it directs movement along the two counter legs rather than cutting through the workspace.
Galley Kitchen
Compact homes can make the most of their space with a galley kitchen. This layout is characterised by two parallel worktops with a walkway in between.
In residential settings, a galley kitchen typically involves cabinets, appliances, and work surfaces arranged along two opposing walls, which makes it ideal for small to medium-sized spaces.
The galley design maximises storage and work surfaces along the length of both walls. For smaller kitchens, opting for a single galley with cabinets on one side and open space on the other can create a much-needed sense of space.
U-shaped Kitchen
U-shaped kitchens look exactly as they sound! This design involves arranging cabinets, worktops, and appliances along three adjoining walls, forming a U or horseshoe shape.
It’s a layout perfect for homes where cooking and worktop space are priorities. The U-shaped design, when arranged correctly, can create a compact, efficient work triangle where the stove, sink, and fridge are all within reach of each other.
In large kitchens, a U-shaped layout can be complemented with an island in the centre (with extra seating for socialising or dining!)
Single Wall Kitchens
A rather self-explanatory design, single-wall kitchens feature all cabinets, worktops, and appliances aligned along one wall.
The single-wall layout is especially suitable for small spaces such as flats or compact homes. For an open-plan living area, it’s a popular choice because it allows you to maintain an unbroken flow throughout the living area.
To make sure all essential kitchen components fit within the linear space, the design must be planned carefully. Typically, this includes the fridge-freezer at one end, followed by the sink, worktop space, and the oven and hob at the other end.
Upper cabinets or shelves are often installed above the base units to maximise storage without encroaching on floor space. In some cases, tall units can be incorporated at the end of the kitchen for additional storage.
Island Kitchen
Homes with island kitchens often involve a central, freestanding island that can house a range of features such as sinks, hobs, or even built-in appliances like dishwashers and wine coolers.
It’s ideal for larger kitchens, especially in open-plan settings, where the island can help define the kitchen area while maintaining an airy feel.
However, even smaller kitchens can benefit from a well-designed island, provided there is plenty of planning and preparation. Without careful consideration, an island can overcrowd the space.