What’s the Best Layout for Large Kitchens?

What's the Best Layout for Large Kitchens?

Is your kitchen space large or open concept? The layout of your kitchen design will help establish work zones, influence counter space, and allow for seating – or maybe not. Your GNH designer will help you choose a layout that maximizes your larger kitchen space and supports your family’s goals.

Download our free kitchen planning guide.

Here are three popular kitchen layouts for larger kitchens from KraftMaid:

1. G-Shaped Kitchens

This layout uses nearly every square foot of available floor space by adding a peninsula or partial fourth wall of base cabinets to a U-shaped layout. Because the narrower entrance into the work zone can make a cook feel claustrophobic, this layout works best in larger kitchens.

  • Adding a short return on the open side of a U-shaped layout minimizes traffic flow in and out of the work zone.
  • There are plenty of places to set up specialized zones.
  • This layout features the most corner base cabinets. Use corner storage solutions in your design plan to maximize utility in these awkward spaces.

2. L-Shaped Kitchens

Placing cabinets along two perpendicular walls form an L-shaped layout and adapts well to a variety of spaces, making them one of the most popular kitchen layout options.

  • This layout is the most cost-effective and efficient way to create a work triangle.
  • Typically, one side will feature your sink, while the stove goes on the other. Your refrigerator can go on either side, the longer one if available.
  • L-shaped layouts are great for kitchens that open to a dining or living room. With no barrier between the kitchen’s work space and adjacent room, both areas feel larger.

3. U-Shaped Kitchens

A U-shaped kitchen has cabinets along three walls with open access on the remaining side.  If your room is large enough, set up multiple work zones on different sides of the “U” so two people can use the kitchen without getting into each other’s way.

  • Continuous countertops and ample storage surround the cook.
  • A U-shaped kitchen has potential for more upper cabinets than other layouts.
  • When three perimeter walls aren’t available, add a peninsula to an L-shaped kitchen to form the third side of the “U.”

Source: KraftMaid: Kitchen Layout Options