6 Popular Kitchen Layouts for Your Kitchen Remodeling Project

Kitchen remodeling is a significant home project that changes the overall flow of a home. Kitchens play a vital role in our daily lives, requiring as much function as design.

Based on individual needs and preferences, a carefully selected kitchen layout will vastly improve the efficiency and appearance of your kitchen space.

Knowing the difference between these popular kitchen layouts will help you visualize how each could fit your household. If you see yourself as a gourmet chef or a frequent host, kitchen layout matters.

Here, we’ll show you the six types of kitchen layouts that work well for many homeowners.

The Island Kitchen Layout

An island kitchen’s focal point is its central, free-standing counter.

Kitchen islands instantly add more storage, seating, or prep space. They’re also a bold visual element that can match or complement the rest of your kitchen’s interior. However, they can be cumbersome in smaller spaces.

With enough room, a kitchen island layout can be added to a U-shaped, L-shaped, or one-wall kitchen.

The G-Shaped Kitchen Layout

The G-shaped, or “peninsula” layout, has many of the same perks as a U-shaped kitchen. The “G” refers to an extra counter, or extension, that creates a partial separation from the kitchen and living space.

Green Hill Contracting recommends this layout for kitchens that span at least 10 x 10 feet. Otherwise, too much counter space can harm efficiency in small to mid-sized kitchens.

A G-shaped remodel works best for busy households that need a multipurpose dining area. For master chefs, this layout can also create one or two work triangles where all necessary equipment is within arm’s reach.

The U-Shaped Kitchen Layout

A U-shaped kitchen layout is sometimes called a “horseshoe” design since it’s made up of three countertop sections in an open “U” shape.

This semi-circle layout means you’ll always have ample prep and storage space, and that chefs can work in tandem.

The U-shaped layout is versatile in larger kitchens; however, it’s not as suitable for more confined areas where countertop space is scarce.

Sufficient space is required for this particular layout, otherwise your movement risks being restricted.

The Galley Kitchen Layout

A galley layout typically works for smaller kitchens, as the countertop space runs parallel to both walls. This creates an open walkway through the kitchen center.

Galley layouts are uniquely practical since all storage is within view. However, their corridor layout is a bit narrow for cooking in pairs.

Movement is more restricted in a galley kitchen, but depending on personal kitchen use, the layout could be effective in small to medium spaces.

The L-Shaped Kitchen Layout

Many homeowners love an L-shaped kitchen layout because of its ability to create a seamless work triangle.

An L-shaped kitchen design grants easy access to a sink, refrigerator, and cooktop. Meal prep becomes far simpler when you have three major cooking components within reach.

An L-shaped layout also extends counter space, which can enhance small- to medium-sized kitchens. While they can be frustrating for single chefs, an L-shaped layout comes with a range of storage options.

The One-Wall Kitchen Layout

True to its name, a one-wall kitchen layout houses all appliances and counter space on a single wall.

Like a galley layout, a one-wall kitchen is ideal for smaller spaces, although they can also be incorporated into an open-concept living plan.

Since all your storage space is stacked in a row, one-wall kitchens work best for one- to two-chef households. They’re limited in counter space, which can encourage efficient organization.

Custom Kitchen Remodeling Services in Raleigh, Durham & Chapel Hill, NC

Your home’s kitchen is a powerful reflection of you, the homeowner. When choosing its layout, it’s important to evaluate your available space and needs. The expert team at Green Hill Contracting will work with you to select the right contractor for the job.

Our meticulous process ensures that you get matched with a kitchen remodeling professional who offers personalized guidance and 3D renderings.

With over 30 years of combined experience in Durham, Chapel Hill, Raleigh, and Clayton, we’ve perfected our offerings with attention to detail. We’re a fourth-generation, woman-owned business that operates on integrity.

See what innovative kitchens we’ve remodeled in the Triangle area before requesting a free estimate for your own kitchen project.

To learn more about our kitchen remodeling and custom design services, talk to a Green Hill Contracting professional today.