Learn The Shapes Of Online Kitchen Layouts
When designing a kitchen, study carefully the shapes of online kitchen layouts. Sometimes you are restricted to just one or two options based on size and architectural constraints. Read the following information about kitchen design plans to decide the right shape for your needs.
The L-shape kitchen has two perpendicular walls; the rest is open to the next room. Thus, this is the most open kitchen layout that is virtually traffic-free. This is one of the most popular online kitchen layout since it is appealing to the eye and easy to expand. However, if you are sticking with the work triangle, this almost always forces one of the components (usually the sink) to be located in the corner. If you like company or need to keep an eye on children, note that your back will mostly be facing the open space.
Some of the setbacks to the L-shape kitchen can be solved by adding an island; if the island is attached, it is called a peninsula kitchen plan. This not only extends counter space but now you have the option of opening your work triangle. You can really play with the versatility of where to place an island in online kitchen layouts.
Think of relocating one of your appliances to the island; for example, create an island that doubles as a butcher block/food prep station, dough or bread kneading station, or cleaning station with a sink. An island or peninsula also does not obstruct your view of the adjacent room. Instead, it might even bring you “closer” to the people in the other room by providing a natural gathering spot. Add seating along the peninsula to create a conversation or eating spot.
An island fits perfectly in an L-shape kitchen, but not if the space is limited. You will need at least a 10 x 10 open space to allow for the minimum one foot clearance around all sides of the island (and still keeping within the 9 foot restraint of the work triangle). Play around with your online kitchen layout to see how an island fits into your kitchen floor plan.
The U-shape kitchen floor plan has three walls and the most cabinets. Some professional cooks appreciate the extra storage and counters. Note that a U-shape kitchen is not conducive to holding more than one cook, unless the “U” is widened. However, if the width is too large, this may defy the “work triangle rule” that the perimeter is no larger than 26 feet. If the U-shape leaves you feeling too restricted, consider some modified online kitchen layouts that open one arm of the “U” to allow seating and access to the adjacent room.
The galley has two parallel walls. Looking at this online kitchen layout will remind you of a train corridor or hallway. This design has optimal long stretches of open counter space. Try to position your food preparation stations near the most-used appliances. An ideal positioning of appliances is to have the sink and stove on one side and the fridge on the other.
However, watch out for the kitchen traffic! The galley kitchen is like a corridor so people will have to step behind you. So watch out for surprises! Make sure there is enough distance between counters to allow for the traffic. Also note this configuration does not allow for much interaction. You probably should not put a dining table in here since it will block up one of the entrance/exit.
Lastly, the single wall kitchen has everything on the same wall. Logistically you can see on an online kitchen layout that this is the least functional plan; you cannot possible create a “work triangle” with this layout. But this type of kitchen fits the smallest of spaces. Sometimes it is the only practical kitchen to have in a studio or small dwelling.
Try to position the sink between the fridge and stove. Counter space may be minimal as well. This layout is not ideal for families, but you can “open” it by putting a seating or dining area nearby. If space allows, add a portable island.
For a clearer idea of these modern kitchen designs, try looking at examples online. The online kitchen layouts map out the “work triangle” so you can see how your appliances should be arranged. Once you have decided upon a layout, then you can start building your kitchen with confidence.