Tired of dodging elbows and fighting for counter space that doesn't exist? It may be time to explore kitchen layout ideas. Whether you have a small space or an underutilized kitchen with an inefficient layout, you'd be surprised by how much functionality you can squeeze out of your existing footprint.

Here are a few factors to consider as you explore kitchen design layouts.

Your Space & Needs

While you can do a lot with a little space, you’ve got to get realistic about the square footage you're working with and your actual needs. Ask yourself the following questions:

About Your Space

• What are the dimensions of your kitchen? As you measure, take note of the ceiling height, window position, and which way doors swing.
• Which walls are load-bearing? This will determine whether you can make major layout changes.
• Where are your plumbing and electrical outlets? Sure, these can be moved, but this introduces additional cost and complexity to your kitchen design layout.

About Your Needs

• How often do you cook at home?
• How many people typically cook at the same time?
• How much storage do you actually need?
• How many appliances do you have—and how many do you really need?

Be honest as you answer. An elaborate kitchen with all the bells and whistles may not be cost-effective if you primarily heat meals in the microwave, live alone, or cook solo.

Popular Kitchen Design Layouts

Now that you’ve assessed your space and needs, consider four of the most popular kitchen layout ideas.

Galley Kitchen

Many older homes and apartments have galley kitchens—corridor-style spaces with parallel counters that feel more like a short hallway than a room. It’s very unlikely you’d choose this small kitchen layout idea. However, you may have to work around it.

To make the most of your space, consider:

• Removing a wall if the structure and space allow.
• If you can’t extend the kitchen, consider removing one set of upper cabinets to eliminate that tunneling effect.
• Using light paints to brighten up and broaden that small kitchen layout.
• Swapping out traditional doors with open shelving or sliding doors to open up headroom.

L-Shaped Kitchen

Generally, L-shaped kitchens sit inside two adjoining walls and open up to a living space. They’re ideal for medium-sized homes with open concepts or those with dining nooks.

To optimize your space:

• Place your appliances at the ends of cabinets or corners—not smack dab in the center of your counter space.
• Know which direction people enter and exit. This will help you determine where to place the fridge and, if applicable, seating.
• Consider a corner pantry to maximize the awkward corner.

U-Shaped

A U-shaped kitchen design layout is exactly what it sounds like—one where cabinets and countertops run along three adjoining walls to create a U shape. As you think about how to plan your kitchen layout, consider:

• Traffic flow: We recommend keeping at least four feet of space between parallel counters.
• Natural light: Avoid placing tall cabinets in window areas; this will maximize natural light.
• Islands: Skip an island unless the space can accommodate 42” of clearance on all four sides of it.

Peninsula

Peninsula kitchens are similar to a U-shaped kitchen. The difference is that they have a countertop peninsula that extends beyond the cabinets or sink area to create a bar-like seating area. It’s like having an island—except that it connects to one wall.

If you’re uncertain how to plan this kitchen layout, consider the following:

• Length and room size: The peninsula shouldn’t extend so far that it creates an awkward obstacle or disrupts flow.
• Counter depth: Standard counter depth is two feet. However, consider narrowing down if you have limited space.
• Storage: Think about adding a corner cabinet where the peninsula connects to the wall.
• Seating: If you’re adding bar stools, consider how many. To maintain comfort, seats should allow for 24” of width between each person and 15” of knee space.

Additional Factors to Consider When Planning Kitchen Layout

The Work Triangle

This is a common industry phrase used to describe the path between your sink, stove, and fridge. Generally, the distance between each should be between four and nine feet. As you consider kitchen design layouts, keep in mind that this area should be obstacle-free.

Storage Solutions

Place cabinets strategically based on your workflow. Dishes belong near the dishwasher; pots live near the stove. When possible, make use of vertical space, incorporating tall pantry cabinets into your small kitchen layout ideas. Finally, consider specialized storage inside cabinets—lazy susans, spice pullouts, drawer dividers, and racks to organize pots.

Traffic Flow

As you play with kitchen design layouts, remember the following:

• Walkways should be at least 3.5’ wide.
• Ideally, work areas require a minimum of 3.5’ to maintain efficiency.
• Place the fridge in an area that is accessible to both cooks and passersby.

Customize Your Kitchen Layout With Wyoming Building Supply

Struggling to visualize your dream kitchen? That’s what Wyoming Building Supply is here for. We don’t just supply and install kitchen countertops and cabinets—we also help customers bring their vision to life. When you partner with us, we kickstart every project with a free consultation to understand your budget, material preferences, and space requirements.

Our designers will translate your idea into a working blueprint, which you get to refine until it’s perfect.

Ready to Plan Your Kitchen Layout?

With over 50 years of experience, we know what it takes to transform kitchens, and we have the supplies and expertise to install and customize your dream space. With competitive prices and a shared commitment to success, it's no wonder generations of customers trust us. Contact us now!