There are three basic kitchen layout configurations for kitchens. These are the galley, the L shape, and the U shape. Other configurations are usually modified versions of these three basic shapes. The actual layout shape of the kitchen is similar to the names used to describe each of these layouts. If there is an interruption in the layout, such as a door leading to another space, then that layout may be described as a “broken” version. Each layout also has certain advantages and disadvantages.
In the galley layout, you have the kitchen to one side of the wall. There is a modified version called the double gallery. In a double gallery, circulation is in the middle and the kitchen cabinets and equipment are extended to the opposite wall. If this configuration is open at both ends, it might become used as a corridor. However, this feature could also be a disadvantage if the user would prefer to reduce traffic flow through the kitchen.
The L shaped configuration extends the galley kitchen shape by attaching perpendicular cabinets to one end of the galley. This layout might allow you to place an eating area at the other end of the galley. The L shape gives the user more flexibility than the galley space, but not as much as the U shape.
The U shaped layout is considered to be the most efficient plan. The U shaped configuration extends perpendicular cabinets to both sides of a galley. This setup may cover the most area since cabinets and equipment cover three sides leading to more work area in the kitchen. This also gives more flexibility in the placing of appliances. Additionally, the larger work area tends to be a better configuration for simultaneous activities by multiple users.
Although the U in U shaped might just be the most optimal design for you, the best kitchen layout for you and your family really depends on your space and your use of the kitchen. A U shaped configuration may or may not be practical for your space. If you have are keeping the existing kitchen in your home, you will have to adjust your movements and plans based on the existing layout. However if you are planning on a kitchen renovation, this gives you the opportunity to cater your kitchen design to your needs. The area designated for the kitchen in combination with the budget will have a major effect on which configuration can fit within the space, such as the overall size of the space, existing walls, or the absence of walls. Although you might be limited by the dimensions of your space, sometimes modifications to the layout or even other details of the kitchen can alleviate these concerns.
Besides modifications to the kitchen layout itself, you can add modifications such as kitchen islands and eat-in areas to your kitchen layout. Once you have decided on a general configuration, you must look more closely at planning the details of the kitchen. It’s helpful to consider the way you use the kitchen. What are the kinds of appliances you use? Is there usually only one chef or several in the kitchen? Additionally, there are many more questions that will affect the final performance and look of your kitchen. Some of these address the placement of sinks, appliances, and cabinets. Another is the actual sizing and dimensions of cabinets which can greatly enhance or impede your use of the kitchen. In addition, you will want to choose materials for cabinetry, countertops, and flooring that bring aesthetic appeal and function to your cooking and/or eating time.
You can tackle the complexity of kitchen design yourself or you can seek the assistance of a professional. Because of the literally hundreds of questions and decisions involved in kitchen design, a professional can save you time and money by designing your kitchen plan. You might even request a preview of the kitchen in 3D. The assistance of a professional is important in a standard kitchen, but even more important in a kitchen that must be designed to incorporate accessibility and ADA principles. Colorfinity offers these types of design services that helps achieve the optimal kitchen design for you.