When you move to a custom home, you get the freedom to decide every single description for it. That means you can make it unique as your personality. So make use of this opportunity. An interior designer can help you choose the correct elements for your space. But if you have basic knowledge of how layouts work, you will know why that thing makes sense even if you selected it on somebody else’s recommendation. For example, you can consider a kitchen.
A successful design in this context would stick to the concept of kitchen work triangle – the equal distance of the hob, fridge, and sink from each other in a triangular style. Another famous method is kitchen zoning, which defines a space based on everyday kitchen duties, such as cleaning, prep, and cooking. Both these ideas improve the functionality of a kitchen layout. However, these principles may not be suitable for every type of kitchen space. Still, your kitchen can be functional. To achieve this, you need to learn to plan a proper kitchen layout for your area and lifestyle. So here is a quick sneak peek into them.
One-wall kitchen
Whether you live in a small house, townhome, or apartment, you can trust this to serve your daily needs. Although it cannot have the perfect kitchen triangle, you can access your appliances effortlessly. In this layout, the sink sits between the fridge and stove at an equal distance. Due to this, you can find three of them within your reach. Plus, you can imagine this space with a classy apron-front farmhouse bowl, vinyl tile flooring, glass overhead cabinets, etc. The open floor plans can also integrate a dining table because of its space-saving character.
Galley kitchen
A galley or corridor kitchen layout can justify itself even in a narrow space, regardless of the length. You must have come across this design in aged homes and apartments. Usually, countertops and cabinets run parallel to each other, divided by a narrow walkway. The two opposite walls or sides have to be about 4 to 6 feet apart for smooth movement. The main advantage of this layout is the intelligent utilization of the hallway space between the dining room and living room. It also proves that every inch in the home can have a purpose to serve. For higher functionality, you can combine this with other themes. Imagine adding a small peninsula or window to separate the kitchen from the eating area.
Peninsulas
It may be dated, but kitchen peninsulas can enhance U-shaped kitchens by providing additional seating and storage space typical of kitchen islands. Since it creates three sides, the daily meal preparation task becomes easy. Then, the layout also allows you to have a small breakfast nook, a mobile island, or a space for smooth movement. Hence, you can find it pretty versatile.
L-shaped kitchen
These layouts feature two adjacent walls with lower and upper cabinets. One side of the ‘L’ will extend more than the other. The longer side provides ample countertop, while the shorter one can accommodate several appliances. You can adapt this style to the open floor and small kitchens. You can also build a tiny eating nook in this. In a large room, you can include your dining table inside the kitchen area. Such formats make your serving job easier because of the absence of hurdles between the counter and the table.
Many L-shaped kitchens take advantage of the space, creating a small coffee corner with one table and two chairs.
U-shaped kitchen
Also referred to as horseshoe, the design offers scope for adding a tiny seating area or island in the middle of the kitchen. But if you want to keep your cooking zone airy, you can avoid this. It will allow smooth traffic flow. Since it involves three adjoining walls, you get enough counter space along with the possibility of building lower and upper cabinets on each side. You can have this in a small area also with proper zoning.
Central island
Having a kitchen island in the center can help you have extra prep, storage, and seating space. It works best on the open floor and minimalist décor featuring sleek appliances. With an oversized island dotting the center, you can devise a visual treat effortlessly. The concrete countertop with recycled timber drawers can be an attention puller. If it is spacious, you can install a sink also. At the same time, it can become a place for socialization with family, friends, and guests. Whether you use it for entertainment or dining, it is your choice.
Double islands
Although every feature has its benefit, you have to be rational about integrating them into your kitchen. For example, the simple logic behind adding an island can be an extra prep area and dining spot. But incorporating one at the expense of the free space can soon become a disappointment when you struggle to move freely from one corner to another. Anyway, everyone knows the usefulness of a kitchen island. Suppose you add two of them. What do you feel about this idea? The double island format can maximize the eat-in corner, prep space, and walkway. Besides that, this style is typical of commercial kitchen spaces. If you achieve this successfully, you can enjoy the functionality and feel of a professional setup.
Like these, you can study all the options to understand what can work best for you in a particular space and how you can optimize its function and looks. Then, the budget, overall interior theme, and everything else would determine its practical application. Also, prior knowledge will help you have an open discussion with your designer or contractor. You wouldn’t agree to anything just because it sounds good. You will know the actual reason behind choosing a specific feature.
Home improvement or building projects hold a special place in people’s hearts. It can be stressful before and during the process, but you can relish this experience after your fruits of labor show up. You can talk about your selection with pride and feel happy that you went ahead with it.