The kitchen plays a significant role in the overall aesthetics of the home. They often provide character to the living space. Over the years, there have been many kitchen design layouts that have been preferred in households. They are not only efficient but are also key contributors in design perspective. Therefore, at MS&MR Kitchens, we believe it is important design kitchens to be in sync with the way a home is decorated. Moreover, the layout of the kitchen should be practical and be in alignment with where the different aspects of kitchen will be located, owing to certain restrictions of personal space and utilities. For example, the sink will most likely be placed closest to the water outlet. The designers at our store in Melbourne always adhere to the ‘Golden Triangle’ rule while planning the kitchen layout. This rule states that the three main work areas in the kitchen such as sink, refrigerator and cooktop must be ideally located at the three apex points of a triangle. Furthermore, each side of the triangle should be a maximum of nine feet and a minimum of four feet apart in order to create the most comfortable working spaces. Also, the sum of the lengths of all three sides should be between 13 and 26 feet. Given below are some of the most common kitchen layouts. It is important to note that each of these have its own advantages and use the triangle differently.

1.       L-Shaped Kitchen Layout

This is one of the most popular kitchen layouts. Typically, this layout is ideal for smaller homes as it makes maximum use of the available floor space. It provides maximum storage while finding a space to easily incorporate a small dining table. In an ideal L-Shaped kitchen, the hob at the junction of fridge and sink makes a working triangle, separating the storage from wet work. Moreover, they impart an organised look to the kitchen.

Pros:

·         Classy and sleek looking kitchen

·         Excellent space management and storage space

·         Easy to maintain

Cons:

·         Cost of installation can sometimes be higher than that of ordinary kitchens.

·         All the storage units installed require expert assistance in case of technical errors.

2.       Single-Walled Layout

Most often than not, for such layouts, the counter spans no less than 8 feet long. However, this measure can still vary depending on the size of kitchen as well as personal preferences. Therefore, this will provide ample space to accommodate all appliances. It is important to understand that the arrangement of the work zones is also interchangeable. Nevertheless, this usually follows a “refrigerator – sink – range” order. And the reason as to why the sink is usually found in between is to provide a convenient location for clean-up. Moreover, this design also offers adequate counter space on both sides of the stove to ensure safety.

Pros:

·         Saves space

·         Easy installation

·         Low maintenance

·         Efficiency of workflow

·         Fits narrow spaces

Cons:

·         Less storage

·         Minimum counter-space

·         Low resale value of home

3.       U-Shaped Kitchen Layout

Thisis the perfect kitchen layout for families with more than four members. U-shaped kitchens typically provide clients with an organised look as they are designed with multiple cabinets to hold kitchenware and accessories. Such kitchens have plenty of counter space, which makes it ideal for more than one person to use the kitchen at a time. The storage cabinets in this kind of a layout contain sliding and pocket doors which not only increases storage place but also reduce the visible clutter. Therefore, in U-Shaped kitchen layout, the working triangle makes an exact triangle with the hob in between the fridge and sink.

Pros:

·         Sleek and classy

·         Efficient space management

·         Great utility

Cons:

·         Higher cost of installation

·         Requires expert assistance in case of technical errors

4.       Parallel Shaped Kitchen or Galley Kitchen Layout

This layout consists of two kitchen platforms, which,along with their cabinets, run parallel to each other. These are ideal for small apartment dwellers or for those who have a space constraint. They typically provide a large amount of storage, and efficiently use the space with cabinets that run, not only on the top, but also at the bottom on either side of the kitchen. Sometimes, these kitchens are painted in neutral white in order to enhance the sense of space.

Pros:

·         Easy access to everything

·         Efficient use of space

·         Uses minimal floor space

Cons:

·         Less counter space

·         May cause congestion

·         Requires larger width

5.       Island Kitchen Layout

Usually this kind of kitchen layout screams luxury. Such a layout typically combines either a straight line or an L-shaped kitchen model with an unconnected island space. Furthermore, this island can be used as an extra counter area, breakfast nook, or baking nook. The island can also be equipped with a sink or stovetop. Essentially, this kitchen layout is ideal for an open plan living and for entertaining guests.

Pros:

·         Increased counter space

·         Imparts character to the space

·         Increases storage space

Cons:

·         Not suitable for venting and wiring

·         Expensive installation

·         Disrupts the work triangle

6.       G-Shaped or Peninsula Kitchen

This is essentially an altered version of the U-shaped kitchen. The G-shaped kitchen layout usually opens up the wall to the nearby room and creates a pass through.It is ideal for those who want to use every square inch of kitchen. A G-shape kitchen is completed by including a peninsula area. It is an excellent way to make the kitchen appear more inviting while also creating an extra workspace. Typically, the peninsula area is about 1.2m wide.

Pros:

·         More base cabinets

·         Can be an open or a private kitchen

·         More counter space

·         Many options for work triangle

Cons:

·         Complicated layout

·         Overstuffed kitchen

·         Increased corner constraint

No matter the type of kitchen you are going for, you can always count on our skilled and trained designers at MS&MR Kitchens to deliver your dream kitchen. By sourcing quality materials from top local suppliers, we can assure the quality of the products. You will also get a 3D model of your kitchen and a detailed quote before you make any commitments. Call us today to book a no-obligation consultation.