U Shape Archives - Kitchen Solvers Tue, 21 Jan 2025 00:56:26 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.2 The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Right Kitchen Layout https://kitchensolvers.com/the-ultimate-guide-to-choosing-the-right-kitchen-layout/ Tue, 21 Jan 2025 00:56:26 +0000 https://kitchensolvers.com/?p=235357 Kitchen layout is a crucial aspect of any remodel. Understanding how to optimize your space allows you to balance functionality, […]

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Kitchen layout is a crucial aspect of any remodel. Understanding how to optimize your space allows you to balance functionality, aesthetics, and available space effectively. A well-designed kitchen should have a logical workflow, ensuring seamless movement from the sink to the oven to the fridge. Choosing the right kitchen layout for your space is key to creating a kitchen that works for you. 

Understanding Kitchen Layouts

A kitchen layout is essential for maximizing your space and ensuring your kitchen is as functional as possible. When determining a layout, it’s important to consider the room’s size and shape, as well as how many people will use the kitchen and their specific needs. For example, the kitchen for a family of five will look very different from one designed for a single person. Additionally, it’s crucial to account for cooking, storage, and entertaining preferences to create a space that meets your lifestyle.

Popular Kitchen Layouts

The Single Wall Kitchen
There are many popular kitchen layouts. The single-wall kitchen is ideal for small spaces or open-concept homes. This layout is very inexpensive and easy to build. However, since all appliances are on one wall, it is not optimal for larger households where additional countertop and storage space is necessary.

The Galley Kitchen
The galley kitchen features two parallel counters, emphasizing efficiency and ease of cooking. With less surface area between appliances, everything is within easy reach. However, this layout can feel cramped, especially if more than one cook is using the kitchen at the same time. Additionally, galley kitchens, being tight on space, typically do not offer the best resale value.

The L-Shaped Kitchen
The L-shaped kitchen works well in small- and medium-sized spaces by maximizing corner areas. This layout is versatile and can even incorporate a dining area. L-shaped kitchens are designed with the working triangle in mind, promoting easy movement between the sink, stove, and refrigerator. However, this layout is not ideal for larger kitchens, as it can leave too much unused space.

The U-Shaped Kitchen
The U-shaped kitchen offers ample storage and workspace, making it best suited for larger spaces. This layout provides plenty of counter space for cooking appliances and utensils, making it ideal for households with multiple cooks. However, since U-shaped kitchens require significant space, they are not well-suited for smaller areas.

The Island Kitchen
The island kitchen layout is excellent for adding functionality and social space. Islands provide additional workspace, storage, and seating options. However, one consideration is the placement of the island, as it can interfere with the kitchen’s work triangle, potentially disrupting efficiency.

How to Choose the Best Layout for Your Space

Step 1: Assess Your Space
Start by measuring the dimensions of your kitchen carefully to understand the available area. Identify any structural limitations, such as windows, doors, or fixed walls, which may impact your layout options. Being aware of these constraints will help you make informed design decisions.

Step 2: Determine Your Needs
Think about how you use your kitchen. Are you a frequent chef who needs ample prep space, or a casual cook who prioritizes simplicity? Consider your storage requirements—do you need space for large appliances, cookware, or a pantry? Additionally, factor in your socializing needs, such as entertaining guests or hosting family gatherings, to ensure your layout supports your lifestyle.

Step 3: Evaluate Workflow
A functional kitchen should prioritize efficiency. Pay close attention to the kitchen work triangle, which connects the sink, stove, and refrigerator. This triangle is essential for minimizing unnecessary movement. Streamlining this workflow will make cooking and cleaning more convenient and enjoyable.

Step 4: Optimize for Lighting and Ventilation
Good lighting is crucial for both functionality and ambiance. Focus on maximizing natural light while incorporating artificial lighting for tasks and mood. Additionally, ensure proper ventilation by strategically placing range hoods or exhaust fans to maintain air quality and prevent odors from lingering.

Conclusion

A well-designed kitchen should feature a logical workflow, allowing for seamless movement between the sink, oven, and refrigerator. Selecting the right kitchen layout is essential for creating a space that meets your needs and enhances daily functionality. At Kitchen Solvers, we’re committed to providing a pleasant remodeling experience, from the initial consultation to the moment you step into your beautifully transformed kitchen.

Ready to get started? Speak with one of our experts today. Still exploring your options? Check out our blog, Efficient Kitchen Layouts: Designing for Workflow and Accessibility,” for more insights and inspiration.

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The Importance of a Well-Designed Kitchen Layout https://kitchensolvers.com/the-importance-of-a-well-designed-kitchen-layout/ Mon, 12 Feb 2024 17:15:33 +0000 https://kitchensolvers.com/?p=171694 Originally, the kitchen was simply seen as a utilitarian space in the home. However, it has evolved to become the […]

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Originally, the kitchen was simply seen as a utilitarian space in the home. However, it has evolved to become the heart of the home, where culinary artistry meets family gatherings and hospitality. A well-thought-out and designed kitchen layout is the cornerstone of a functional and aesthetically pleasing space. A carefully planned-out kitchen is crucial whether you’re a passionate home chef or just someone who enjoys the occasional microwave dinner.

Functionality

Designing a functional kitchen is like writing a well-orchestrated symphony—each element plays a crucial role in creating a seamless and efficient workspace. There are three primary kitchen layouts: galley, L-shaped, and U-shaped. Each one offers its own advantages which allows homeowners to choose a design that best fits their needs and how they function in their kitchen.

Workflow Optimization

A fundamental piece of designing a kitchen is the arrangement of the major work zones—preparation, cooking, and cleaning. Thinking through the placement of each of these zones will minimize unnecessary movement which optimizes workflow and saves time and effort. A well-designed work triangle between the stove, sink, and refrigerator (sometimes referred to as the work triangle) is a concept that kitchen designers think about every time they design to ensure a smooth flow between key areas.

Storage Solutions

Having enough storage makes a huge difference in any kitchen. A thoughtful layout takes into consideration the placement of cabinets, drawers, and size of the pantry to maximize storage and efficiency. Things like pull-out shelves, built-in organizers, and clever cabinet design can contribute to a clutter-free and highly organized kitchen. This, in turn, enhances both functionality and visual appeal in the space.

Appliance Placement

The placement of appliances is crucial for a kitchen’s efficiency. Strategically integrating appliances into the cabinetry not only saves space but can also create a cohesive look. Beyond that, placing appliances within easy reach of each other can facilitate a more convenient and pleasant cooking experience.

Aesthetics

While functionality is crucial, aesthetics should not be overlooked when designing a kitchen. A visually appealing space creates an inviting atmosphere and can turn the cooking space into a place where culinary creativity can thrive.

Harmonious Design

A kitchen layout should consider the overall design harmony. Color schemes, materials, and an overall unified theme all contribute to a visually pleasing space. Whether the homeowner is drawn to a sleek, modern design or more of a charming farmhouse aesthetic, a good, harmonious kitchen design enhances the overall appeal of the home.

Focal Points

To add character and visual interest, consider adding focal points to your kitchen. This could be a statement backsplash, a stylish range hood, or a beautiful kitchen island. Adding focal points draw the eye and can create a sense of balance within the space.

Lighting Magic

Choosing the right lighting for your kitchen design can be a game-changer. Pendant lights, under-cabinet lighting, and task lighting can not only enhance overall visibility but all contribute to the ambiance and feel in the space. Thinking through lighting choices can transform a kitchen from just a functional space to a warm and inviting space to share with others.

Blending it Together

When it comes to kitchen design, the synergy between form and function is where the true magic happens. Thinking through the kitchen layout can seamlessly integrate both practical elements and aesthetic appeal. It can transform the kitchen from simply a place to cook, to a hub of creativity, nourishment, and social connection. Investing time and thought into planning out your kitchen layout will payoff in the long run. Designing and remodeling a kitchen is not just about having a place to cook, it is about creating a space that inspires culinary art, fosters family bonds, and taking daily routines from ordinary to extraordinary. Whether you are starting from scratch or doing a full remodel, take the time to consider the significance of a well-thought-out kitchen layout. And if all of that overwhelms you, reach out to your local Kitchen Solvers. We specialize in doing just this for our clients and we can’t wait to hear from you!

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Top 5 Kitchen Layouts for Your Home https://kitchensolvers.com/top-5-kitchen-layouts-for-your-home/ Wed, 16 Aug 2023 21:09:30 +0000 https://kitchensolvers.com/?p=162064 Depending on your situation, you might be able to choose your kitchen layout or you might be stuck with what […]

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Depending on your situation, you might be able to choose your kitchen layout or you might be stuck with what your home already has. Either way, the layout of your kitchen plays a crucial role in both the functionality and aesthetics of your culinary space. Whether you use your kitchen to create intricate meals for your family and guests, or you’re more of a quick 5-ingredient type cook, the layout of your kitchen will definitely impact your overall cooking experience. Here we’ll take a look at 5 popular kitchen layouts and some of the benefits of each.

L-Shaped Layout

Probably the most common and timeless favorite, the L-shaped kitchen maximizes corner space and offers an efficient workflow. This layout works in both small and large kitchens. It places countertops and appliances along two perpendicular walls which creates a functional triangular workspace between your most used areas—the cooktop, the refrigerator, and the sink. The open end of the “L” is a great space for a dining area, additional cabinetry, or a large kitchen island. The L-shaped kitchen is a versatile choice that works in a variety of home sizes.

U-Shaped Layout

The U-shaped layout is great for a large kitchen space. It allows for ample counter space and storage options. This layout surrounds the cook with countertops and cabinetry on three sides which allows for an organized, efficient, and large cooking environment. A U-shaped kitchen would be perfect for a multi-chef household or for the homeowner who loves to entertain. There is plenty of room for multiple tasks to be happening simultaneously, so you won’t find yourself stepping on each other’s toes.

Galley Layout

Another popular layout, especially in older, smaller homes, is the galley layout. This layout is characterized by two parallel countertops with a single aisle or alley in between. Galley kitchens are perfect for compact spaces, and they create a streamlined workflow. Everything is within arms reach so this design minimizes movement throughout the space and can optimize efficiency. A galley kitchen would be a great choice for small homes, apartments or condos, or anyone who prefers a minimalist aesthetic. Consider making the space feel larger with high, vaulted ceilings if the home allows for it.

Open-Concept Layout

The open-concept kitchen has grown in popularity over the last couple of decades as more and more homeowners are choosing home layouts that integrate the kitchen with the surrounding living spaces. Large, open spaces are the goal to promote connectedness with family and friends. This design eliminates walls and barriers making it a great option for the entertainment-inclined homeowner or the family with small children that need to be monitored while preparing meals.

Island Layout

A kitchen island can be incorporated into any kitchen layout (besides a galley layout) and can dramatically enhance the design and functionality. Adding an island offers extra counter space, storage options, and can double as an additional dining or gathering area for more casual meals or get-togethers. An island inspires collaboration and interaction between the chef and their guests so it is perfect for families who love to entertain. Even if you only have room for a small island, it will add so much functionality and sociability to your space.

The kitchen layout you choose—or the one you are given—sets the tone for your entire culinary experience. Each of the layouts above has its own set of advantages and can cater to your personal needs and preferences. If you are embarking on a kitchen remodel and have the opportunity to choose your layout, consider factors such as your available footprint, how you cook, your family size, and your lifestyle. Think about how you move around your kitchen currently and what is most important to you—storage, counter space, or more space to entertain. If you’re not sure what layout is best for your space, give your local Kitchen Solvers a call. We can’t wait to chat and look forward to making your kitchen dreams a reality.

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Maximizing Space in Your Kitchen with Clever Design https://kitchensolvers.com/maximizing-space-in-your-kitchen-with-clever-design/ Sat, 08 Jul 2023 15:42:04 +0000 https://kitchensolvers.com/?p=161984 As a homeowner, it doesn’t take you long to realize that the kitchen is the heart of the home. And […]

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As a homeowner, it doesn’t take you long to realize that the kitchen is the heart of the home. And if you’re limited on kitchen space, it can be a challenge to find a home for all your stuff, let alone all the people when you’re hosting or just living day-to-day life. However, with a well thought out design and clever organization hacks, you can improve kitchen functionality and create an efficient space for your family. Here we will explore some practical tips and innovative ideas to do just that.

It Starts with Layout

Optimizing the available space is the first step to an organized and functional kitchen. Although newer homes typically have a wide open kitchen, older homes tend to have a U-shape, L-shape, or galley-style kitchen. Although these layouts aren’t “kitchen goals” these days, they were designed and created to be practical and functional at the time; and they still can be! They ensure easy movement and efficient workflow because they are small. They also force you to live minimally; which isn’t necessarily a bad thing. The key to these smaller, oddly shaped kitchens is using every inch effectively. Consider installing functional corner cabinets with pull-out shelves or lazy susans to make sure you are optimizing every square inch of space. Starting with a thoughtfully planned layout sets the stage for a highly organized and functional kitchen.

Consider Multiple Functions

Another way to maximize functionality is by choosing furniture and appliances that can serve multiple purposes. An island or recycled table can double as a workspace and additional storage space. Appliances with compact designs and built-in features can make a huge difference too. Microwave drawers are becoming more and more popular because they don’t take up highly sought-after upper cabinet/wall space or even countertop space. Custom cabinetry with pull-out pantry systems can have your store more in a small space. These are just two simple examples of ways you can save precious counter space while also maintaining accessibility.

Go Up

Use vertical space to your advantage by installing wall-mounted shelving or racks for commonly used utensils, pots, and pans. Magnetic strips on the wall/backsplash can be a great place to store knives or other metal kitchen utensils. Hanging baskets or hooks on the underside of upper cabinets can be a great place to store mugs, spices, or even fresh produce. Using the vertical space to your advantage frees up valuable counter space and keeps your space organized and functional.

Customize Your Cabinetry

Although the U-shape, L-shape, and galley-style kitchens encourage efficient workflow, the real secret to creating a functional kitchen lies INSIDE your cabinets and drawers. Pull-out shelves, sliding trays, and dividers not only maximize the use of deep cabinets and drawers, but they also minimize clutter—which is half the battle of a small space. Lazy Susans in corner cabinets allow easy access to items and customizable drawer inserts will help keep utensils, cutlery, and kitchen tools neatly organized. Implementing the right storage solutions will make a world of difference in your small space.

If designing kitchen space still seems overwhelming to you, you’re at the right place on the internet. Your local Kitchen Solvers specializes in just this and are looking forward to helping you accomplish your dreams for a functional, organized, and beautiful space. We have experience in kitchens big and small and are passionate about creating spaces that our customers love—whether that’s a complete gut and remodel, or just a cabinet reface and storage solutions. A well-designed kitchen not only enhances function but also adds aesthetic appeal to your home for yourself and future owners to enjoy for years to come. Call your local Kitchen Solvers today to start dreaming of a space where function and style coexist in perfect harmony.

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Effective Layouts for Small Kitchens https://kitchensolvers.com/effective-layouts-for-small-kitchens/ Sat, 04 Feb 2023 21:06:38 +0000 https://kitchensolvers.com/?p=161644 A small kitchen doesn’t have to be inconvenient. With the right layout and functional design, a smaller space can feel […]

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A small kitchen doesn’t have to be inconvenient. With the right layout and functional design, a smaller space can feel spacious and efficient. It is crucial to think through every detail of your small kitchen remodel to make sure everything is maximized for your space and how you will use it. Hiring a professional designer (like those at Kitchen Solvers) will help you think through options and layouts that you maybe never would have thought of. Designers are trained and educated on creating efficient floorplans that meet all your needs and make preparation, cooking, and serving a streamlined process.

Selecting the basic layout of your small space will be your first task. Here are a few popular layouts that you might already have in your space.

Galley Kitchen:

Originally inspired by the confines of a ship’s galley, a galley kitchen is an entire kitchen on one elevation or wall. Depending on the size of your space, you may have room for a double galley which would be units on two opposite walls with a small ‘hallway’ between them. You could also create a galley look with one wall of cabinet units and an island between that wall and the rest of an open-concept space. When designing galley kitchens, it is important to consider your kitchen work triangle. This is the path of efficiency between your sink, refrigerator, and cooktop. Consider if children or other traffic will be in and out of the kitchen as you are using it as well. If this is the case, putting your sink and cooktop on the same side of the galley will help minimize the chances of collisions that can mentally emphasize the size of your kitchen.

U-Shaped:

U-shaped kitchens are also a popular choice for small kitchens. U-shapes lend themselves to easily set up your work triangle to maximize efficiency in your space by simply putting 1 of the 3 points on each side of the U. To avoid making a u-shaped kitchen feel too closed-in, consider open shelving instead of upper cabinets on one side of the u. This will help to visually open the space up more. For storage purposes, make sure to use pull-out interior storage units in the corner cabinets like a LeMans or kidney-shaped lazy susan. This ensures that you are taking advantage of every square inch of storage space available to you.

L-Shaped:

L-shaped kitchens are very practical in small spaces but there are a few things to keep in mind with this layout. First of all, if there is a window on one wall of the space, choose to put your upper cabinets on the windowless wall. This allows you to have an entire uninterrupted wall of cabinets to maximize storage. On the wall that has the window, consider open shelving on either side of the window with the kitchen sink placed under the window. Of course, still consider your work triangle by placing your cooktop on the opposite side of the L from your sink. Additionally, with an L shaped kitchen, you will have your back to your family and friends as you cook so if that doesn’t sound ideal to you, an L-shaped kitchen might not be the best choice for you.

Design Tips for Small Spaces:

After you decide on which layout works best for your space, there are still some design and décor choices you can make to further optimize your kitchen. Maximizing the amount of natural light in the space will automatically make it feel larger and more open. If your budget allows it, consider adding windows or a sliding door on one end of a galley kitchen to allow light to flow into the entire space. Using open shelving or glass doors in your upper cabinets will create visual depth and keep the kitchen from feeling closed in or crowded. If your personal needs allow it, you might consider skipping the upper cabinets altogether. This will definitely make your kitchen feel larger, taller, and more open. If you have space for it, consider a movable island that can be used when needed but also tucked out of the way when smooth, uninterrupted movement throughout the space is needed. Additionally, an island with pedestal legs rather than cabinetry below it will open up the lower visual space rather than cutting off the line of sight from one end of the kitchen to the other.  This small detail can change the entire feel of the space as pictured below.

Whatever your goals are for your small kitchen, our designers and teams at your local Kitchen Solvers are ready to help you accomplish them. We have experience in almost every size, style, and type of kitchen and are eager to help you discover your kitchen’s full potential no matter what the size. Give us a call today for a free in-home consultation and we can start dreaming together.

 

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Which Kitchen Layout Suits Your Home Best? https://kitchensolvers.com/which-kitchen-layout-suits-your-home-best/ Wed, 08 Dec 2021 16:55:33 +0000 https://kitchensolvers.com/?p=7659 Oftentimes, the remodeling world can be stressful to navigate. With so many options, styles, and designs, it’s hard not to […]

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Oftentimes, the remodeling world can be stressful to navigate. With so many options, styles, and designs, it’s hard not to occasionally feel overwhelmed. And along with each decision comes an added price. At Kitchen Solvers, we know a kitchen remodel can be timely and costly. One of the most important aspects of any kitchen is your space’s layout. The layout is what determines how easy your kitchen is to navigate and how convenient it is for both cooking and entertaining. If you want to make sure you get the most out of your kitchen, optimizing all your given space will ensure easy navigation and top convenience. Read below to learn about which kitchen layout suits your home best.

L-Shaped 

This layout has become increasingly popular because it offers a very open feel to the kitchen. The L-shaped kitchen has two walls which intersect at a 90-degree angle that feature all the appliances. Often one of the walls is longer than the other to keep space open. Keep in mind working in the kitchen causes you to have your back to the rest of the house, so installing an island can help you prep meals and face people. 

U-Shaped Kitchen 

The U-shaped kitchen, also known as the horseshoe layout, adds a third wall to the L-shaped format. This kitchen layout provides workspace on all three sides and gives seamless countertop space. This layout works great in any size kitchen! Normally, homeowners will make the third wall an island or peninsula to help optimize traffic flow.  

Galley Kitchen 

A galley or one-wall kitchen is the most popular layout amongst homeowners because it makes the most out of the available space. A one-wall layout has the appliances and counters all lined up together which makes installation quick and convenient. Most customers choose to have an island compliment this set up to increase counter space and functionality.

Setting Up Appliances and Sections 

When it comes to setting up your appliances and sections, there are a few factors to keep in mind. Each appliance and section has its own traits, and while they often work together with other parts of your kitchen, they still have individual requirements to account for. This is true for appliances like stoves and sinks in addition to sections like cabinets and islands. 

Stoves and ovens are an essential aspect of any kitchen, but there’s something important to remember when placing them. To make ventilation easy, or even possible, your stove and oven combo will need to be placed on an exterior wall. Installing ventilation over an island or in the middle of your home can be costly and complicated. 

Islands are a common addition to high-end kitchens, but you need to consider where they’re implemented. An island that’s too close to the side of your kitchen will make maneuverability difficult. On the other hand, an island that’s too far away will cease to serve a convenient purpose. It’s just another surface that you must walk all the way over to.  

Kitchen Solvers 

At Kitchen Solvers, it’s our job to ensure that you have the most Pleasant Remodeling Experience. Making sure you’re constantly blown away by your home is part of our job description. Whether you need storage solutions, a design upgrade, an island installed, a cabinet reface, or want to start from scratch with a whole new kitchen remodel, Kitchen Solvers is here to make your dreams a reality. Also, feel free to check out our blog articles which cover everything from Adding an Easy Color Pop to Your Kitchen! to What is Cabinet Refacing and Why Should I Consider it for My Home? 

 

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Kitchen Layouts that Cater to a Social Lifestyle https://kitchensolvers.com/kitchen-layouts-that-cater-to-a-social-lifestyle/ Wed, 03 Mar 2021 20:11:52 +0000 https://kitchensolvers.com/?p=6775 As the heart of one’s home, the kitchen is not only where the food is prepared but also where your […]

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As the heart of one’s home, the kitchen is not only where the food is prepared but also where your family and guests come to socialize. With so many functions and roles, it’s important when remodeling your kitchen to consider a layout which will ease foot traffic and prevent your space from feeling cramped. Below we have listed some of our favorite kitchen layouts that work best for hosting and have also included design ideas which can be implemented to your current scheme.

One-Wall Kitchen

A one-wall kitchen is the most popular layout amongst homeowners because it makes the most out of the available space. A one-wall layout has the appliances and counters all lined up together which makes installation quick and convenient. Most customers choose to have an island compliment this set up to increase counter space and functionality.

L-Shaped Kitchen

An L-shaped kitchen can be instated in almost any sized space and steadily improves functionality. This layout involves two adjacent walls which house the cabinetry and appliances. Not only is an L-shaped kitchen perfect for open plans designs, but it also creates an easy working triangle.

U-Shaped Kitchen

The U-shaped kitchen, also known as the horseshoe layout, adds a third wall to the L-shaped format. This kitchen layout provides workspace on all three sides and gives seamless countertop space. This layout works great in any size kitchen! Normally, homeowners will make the third wall an island or peninsula to help optimize traffic flow.

Design Ideas

If you are seeking a kitchen which will be perfect for entertaining guests, implementing an island in your design is a great way to improve your space. Not only will an island provide places for your guests to sit and place their food on, but it will also be the designated focal point of your room.

Another great element to include in your kitchen design is an open floor plan. Creating wide spaces and eliminating unnecessary walls or large structures makes the kitchen feel so much larger. An open floor plan also gives your space multifunctionality and a more flexible layout. This design fosters the perfect social atmosphere by improving sociability!

Lastly, you want your kitchen to fit with rest of your home. A good entertaining space should have a consistent look with the overall design of your home. However, if you want the kitchen to stand out, you can introduce different materials or colors, but make sure that they complement the overall theme in your house.

Kitchen Solvers

At Kitchen Solvers, it’s our job to ensure that you have the most Pleasant Remodeling Experience. Making sure you’re constantly blown away by your home is part of our job description. Whether you need storage solutions, a design upgrade, an island installed, a cabinet reface, or want to start from scratch with a whole new kitchen remodel, Kitchen Solvers is here to make your dreams a reality. Also, feel free to check out our blog articles which cover everything from Adding an Easy Color Pop to Your Kitchen! to What is Cabinet Refacing and Why Should I Consider it for My Home?

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Kitchen Layouts and Design Concepts https://kitchensolvers.com/kitchen-layouts-and-design-concepts/ Mon, 29 Jun 2020 19:13:07 +0000 https://kitchensolvers.com/?p=6087 Being the focal point of any household comes with additional responsibilities and functionalities. The kitchen is more than just a […]

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Being the focal point of any household comes with additional responsibilities and functionalities. The kitchen is more than just a space to cook and prepare meals. Serving as the center of communication, the kitchen is a prime place to entertain friends and family. Hosting guests often translates to crowded kitchens and lots of foot traffic. Optimizing all of your given space will ensure easy navigation and top convenience. Below we have highlighted some of the main points to consider when designing your kitchen layout.

Before getting into specific layouts, we wanted to touch on design concepts that will make your kitchens most accessible, utilize common space, be child friendly, and control traffic.

  • The working triangle is essential to most kitchens. The three points of the triangle are the refrigerator, sink, and stove. This is a common starting point for most kitchens because spacing out these three appliances provides maximum efficiency and productivity.
  • Another design concept is organizing your kitchen into task zones, areas where you can perform a group of related activities. Common zones are often washing, breakfast, preparing, cooking, and cleaning. The zones feature items and appliances that work together to accomplish similar tasks. For example, the washing zone would have your dishwasher and storage while the breakfast zone would have the coffeemaker and toaster. The preparation zone would house utensils, chopping boards, and other appliances with similar natures. The cooking zone is where the stove and pots/pans would be found, and finally, the cleaning area is where the sink would be.
  • Kitchen design and controlling accessibility go hand-in-hand. When controlling traffic, a homeowner needs to focus on keeping the children safe and the guests out of the way. Putting the fridge and the pantry, parts of the kitchen kids are most interested in, on the ends of the area make it most accessible. While the stove and other appliances can be placed near the center. This way, when the kids want a snack, they won’t be in your way and won’t get close to dangerous appliances. Controlling adults is much easier. Installing an island creates space and is also a great divider. On side can be equipped with stools or chairs for your guests to sit in while the other side can be dedicated to meal preparation. An island keeps them at distance while simultaneously making them feel included.
  • When setting up appliances and sections of your kitchen there’s a lot to keep in mind. Each appliance and section have traits that work together with the rest of the kitchen, but most also have their own unique requirements. For instance, stoves and ovens should be placed on an exterior wall for easy ventilation. Placing these appliances over an island or in the middle of the kitchen provides poor ventilation, is expensive, and unnecessarily complicated. Islands must also be strategically placed. A homeowner does not want an island too far from the kitchen where it’s a hassle to get to but does not want it too close either where it blocks passageways.

Now that we have touched on design concepts lets jump into common kitchen layouts!

L-Shaped

This layout has become increasingly popular because it offers a very open feel to the kitchen. The L-shaped kitchen has two walls which intersect at a 90-degree angle that feature all of the appliances. Often times one of the walls is longer than the other to keep space open. Keep in mind working in the kitchen causes you to have your back to the rest of the house, so installing an island can help you prep meals and face people.

U-Shaped

This layout contains three walls connected in a square shape and follows suit to the triangle design mentioned above. The U-shaped plan generally works best for kitchens separated from the rest of the house. Although not the best space to entertain company, these kitchens are great for cooking in.

G-Shaped

The G-shape kitchens are entirely closed off with one point of access. In this space there’s an abundance of counter space perfect for adding stools or chairs. Homeowners can also install a peninsula to create more gathering space.

Galley

Similar to a U-shaped kitchen without the third connecting wall, a galley layout has two perpendicular walls. Often times one of the entrances either leads to another room (i.e. laundry room) or is closed off. Although this design can make cooks feel isolated, it’s very efficient and allows for the important appliances to be close together. Putting windows in can also make the space appear more open as well.

One Wall

Most commonly seen in smaller properties, a one-wall kitchen has the appliances and counter space all together. Having one wall allows for easy accessibility but offers limited space. To increase available space, we suggest adding an island or a portable cart to the area.

Design Your Layout With Kitchen Solvers

Remodels can be demanding and overwhelming. At Kitchen Solvers, we want to give our customers their dream kitchen without the unnecessary stress. Part of our mission is to ensure each homeowner has a Pleasant Remodeling Experience. No matter how much or how little help you need, our team is always happy to aid you on your journey to the cooking space of your dreams.

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Most Common Kitchen Layouts https://kitchensolvers.com/most-common-kitchen-layouts/ Tue, 07 Jan 2020 15:40:18 +0000 https://kitchensolvers.com/?p=5786 One of the most important aspects of any kitchen is the layout. After all, the layout is what determines how […]

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One of the most important aspects of any kitchen is the layout. After all, the layout is what determines how easy your kitchen is to navigate and how convenient it is for both cooking and entertaining. Each layout has its own benefits, so it’s important to consider what kind of kitchen experience you’re looking to enjoy when designing your own. Here are the most common kitchen layouts to consider.

L Shape

The L-shaped kitchen is especially popular in modern designs. Put simply, the L-shaped kitchen features all your appliances and other items on two walls that intersect at a 90-degree angle with one wall longer than the other. Given that only two walls comprise this layout, it offers a very open feel to the kitchen. It’s useful if you don’t want to be isolated from the rest of the house. Just keep in mind that working in the kitchen will put your back to everyone else in the house, so you may want to install an island to be able to work and face people at the same time.

U Shape

A U-shaped kitchen contains three walls connected in a square shape. This design makes it easy to take advantage of the triangle design with easy access to the fridge, cooking space and sink while still maintaining plenty of space. The U shape is typically best suited for kitchens that are separated from the rest of the home. If you’re using your kitchen for cooking without worrying about entertaining, this may be the perfect design.

G Shape

An even more isolated option is the G-shaped kitchen. This type of kitchen is typically entirely closed off except for one point of access. The benefit is that you have plenty of counter space for working and cooking. The extra peninsula area isn’t necessarily completely closed off either. It can be as high as a counter, leaving plenty of space to connect with those outside the kitchen. In fact, it’s common to set up stools or chairs at the added peninsula to function as a breakfast nook.

Galley

The galley kitchen is like a U-shaped kitchen but without the connecting third wall. Instead, this design implements two perpendicular walls. If there aren’t entrances on both sides, the closed side is typically just a flat wall without any extra space or an entrance to a laundry area in the case of many apartments. While this design can make cooks feel closed off, it’s remarkably efficient, as the most important items are all close together. Adding windows and ensuring that both sides are open is a great way to reduce that feeling of isolation within.

One Wall

A one-wall kitchen is one in which all the appliances and counter space are situated on one wall. This is most commonly seen in smaller properties, and this design comes with some great benefits. Everything is easily accessible on one wall, but that space can often fall short. If you use many appliances, your counter space can get seriously limited very quickly. Adding an island or even a portable cart to the area can significantly increase the available space.

Design Your Kitchen Layout With Kitchen Solvers

If you’re ready to implement one of the most common kitchen layouts in your design, Kitchen Solvers is happy to help. No matter how much or how little help you need, our team is always happy to do everything we can to make your kitchen the cooking space of your dreams. Contact us today to start your design plans!

Also be sure to check out our blogs, Steps to Take When You Plan Your Kitchen Remodel and Design Tips to Help With Your Kitchen Remodel for more information on the right kitchen layout for your kitchen. You can also get additional information from our article, Floor Layout – Tips for Planning a Remodel around your Budget and Available Floor Space.

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