Five Common Kitchen Floor Plan Designs

Kitchen designers frequently use a fundamental set of layouts for kitchen floor plans, but every kitchen looks unique because of the flooring, cabinet styles, appliance types, and countertop materials used. These common floor plans are selected because they're often the most efficient use of space. There are often variations in the layouts depending on the amount and shape of space available, but in this article, we will explore the advantages and shortcomings of the five most common kitchen floor plan shapes.

The U Shaped Kitchen Layout

A u-shaped kitchen is a floor plan that has three walls with cabinets and appliances along them. It is an efficient floor plan because it has a large amount of floor space.

Au-shaped kitchen allows appliances and work areas to be placed in a triangle easily. This design makes it easy for home chefs to access all areas of the kitchen without having to move a long distance. The U-shaped kitchen layout works well in a variety of home styles and sizes. 

Peninsula or G Shaped Kitchen Floor Plan

The “G-shaped” kitchen is the term used to describe a cabinetry arrangement that includes a prep-area peninsula and four walls of storage. It's received this name because the blueprint of this configuration resembles a G-shaped on the grid. This configuration is an extension of the U-shaped kitchen and is often a smart upgrade for those who already have the U-shaped kitchen cabinetry currently installed. A G-shaped kitchen increases the number of base cabinets that can be included and this increases storage space while creating a more streamlined cooking area.

The G-shaped design is popular not only due to the increase in cabinet storage, but also the helpfulness offered to the chef, surrounding them with a variety of close countertop options for prep and the immediate access to supplies. This extra counter space is reachable during the entire cooking process and can make preparing complex meals much more efficient. It's a great design for preparation, cooking, and clean-up all conveniently accessible to the kitchen's central area. The peninsula of a G-shaped kitchen offers a tighter countertop area which is great for larger kitchens.

L-Shaped Kitchens

The L-shaped kitchen is a standard, tried and true kitchen floor plan that was developed long ago, but the ergonomics it offers make it a sensible and popular choice that is appropriate even in a modern kitchen. What makes it work is that it facilitates the kitchen work triangle for preparation, clean-up and cooking areas. The L-shape is perfect for smaller kitchens that cannot incorporate an island or G-shaped design.

The L-shaped kitchen is not dated or difficult to match to any aesthetic style or decor. The L-shape refers to the cabinet and appliance layout. To create an L-shaped design, the kitchen must be placed within a corner where two walls form a ninety-degree angle, and one wall is at least longer than the other.

A Galley Kitchen Floor Plan

A galley or corridor kitchen is perfect for homes with a smaller space for a kitchen that features more length than width. Corridor kitchens are economical regarding space but can be horribly inefficient if not planned properly. Many apartments often feature a galley kitchen. While most homeowners would prefer more space, most restaurants and professional chefs use this a galley kitchen design because it is an extremely efficient way to work if a proper kitchen triangle is incorporated into the design. These narrow kitchens must economize movement of those working in the space to prevent disruptive foot traffic and clutter.

A corridor kitchen is often equipped with open shelving or doorless cabinetry. Closed cabinetry can make space feel smaller and add to the impression of a small confined work area. A popular addition to the galley kitchen is a “pass-through” window to facilitate moving food from the kitchen into the dining area efficiently. Corridor designs are cramped, but they can be extremely functional is some pre-planning is incorporated into your design.

One Wall Kitchen

Like its name, a one wall kitchen is built along a single wall. This design is typically found in small homes and efficiency or studio apartments to conserve floor space and lower construction costs.

A one wall kitchen has all of the appliances, cabinets, and countertops on one linear wall. This means the homeowner must perform all of the tasks in a single workspace. Because of the limited space, a one wall kitchen will often contain smaller appliances like a compact refrigerator and range. These appliances are frequently separated by the sink. Modern one wall designs often feature an island that is located across from the wall, which allows for a workspace triangle. Often in a one wall kitchen, the cook will rely on the kitchen table for additional prep space. While this design is limited in options, it does have its benefits. A one wall kitchen allows the homeowner to prepare, cook and clean-up in a single compact space which is incredibly convenient. The layout has become popular in recent years with homeowners who while they have plenty of space, want their kitchen to remain open.

Every kitchen is different. Speak with our design experts to learn the layout options available for these five designs. When you're planning your kitchen and choosing a kitchen floor plan, make sure to take your lifestyle and needs into account. Chances are, one of these five popular designs will be an ideal option for you!

Forward Design Build is a residential design-build firm in Ann Arbor, Michigan that is known for its commitment to craftsmanship and communication. We are committed to improving our neighbors quality of life with inspired design and creative remodeling. Our homes are highly functional, exquisitely beautiful, and remarkably comfortable. Contact us to speak with an expert about your new home or remodeling project.