IKEA | Kitchen layouts

Kitchen layouts

The efficiency of your kitchen can sometimes depend more on how it’s laid out, rather than the amount of space you have. When you begin your plan, it’s a good idea to think about the natural workflows between the main activity areas. There are five basic layout shapes that make a practical kitchen.

Each layout type illustrates the working triangle, which helps to represents movement between each of the main activity areas. To find out more about the working triangle, visit the section on ergonomics.

The single line kitchen

This is a smart and simple solution for narrow rooms, ideally with one wall over 10 feet long, without windows or doors. However, this layout causes the longest journey distances since you often have to walk from one end of the room to the other. Therefore, it’s a good idea to place the sink in the middle of the line, with adequate space separating it from the range.

The galley kitchen

This shape offers the most efficient use of space, making it the choice of many professional chefs. The two rows allow room for lots of preparation space, and moving between activity areas can be as easy as turning around. However, this shape is not ideal if the corridor is open at both ends, since it can cause traffic congestion.

Make sure there is enough room for opposite drawers to be open at the same time (at least 48"). Another important consideration is to keep the cleaning and cooking areas on the same side in order to minimize the risk of accidents while moving hot pans between the sink and range.

The L-shape kitchen

This is a very popular kitchen layout - ideal for a family kitchen, or for entertaining guests, since it can easily accommodate table and chairs in the same room. Using two adjacent walls, the kitchen also benefits from the lack of through-traffic. The sink, range and fridge should be separated by a preparation area.

The U-shape kitchen

The use of three full walls in a room offers the perfect working kitchen. The fridge, range and sink can be spaced out for maximum efficiency and convenience. This is great news for those who take your cooking seriously, as it provides the best workflows with the shortest distances around the kitchen. This shape also allows for large amounts of countertop and storage space.

The island kitchen

A very popular kitchen type, the island layout is perfect if you plan to entertain but requires more floor space. An independent island unit can face a dining or living area, allowing the cook to socialise while preparing. A sink here provides the optimal arrangement in terms of the kitchen’s working triangle. Otherwise, a cooktop with a canopy over the island can form a stunning focal point to the kitchen.

Kitchen Wisdom

Fitted or unfitted kitchens?

	related links


	Kitchen Services

			All your options for delivery, installation, and financing.


	6 easy steps

			Six simple steps to a whole kitchen.


	Download the planner

			Plan and see your kitchen before you buy.


	Quality

			Find out about our limited warranty.


	Child safety

			How to make your kitchen safer.


	Interior fittings

			Great storage solutions with RATIONELL.