The Science Behind Kitchen Layout
Email To Friend | share this article | Posted by Anna on May 27th in Kitchen Remodel.
We all notice the awkwardness of a poorly designed kitchen. Appliance doors blocking pathways, drawers that will only open if something else is closed first…you get the idea. Proper kitchen layout is very important, and there is actually a science behind proper design to help avoid such problems.
Since the 1920s, kitchens have been laid out to best support a functional, working kitchen. This includes food preparation, cooking, cleaning, and serving; and the kitchen should flow to easily accommodate each activity. Five basic kitchen layouts are the U, L, gallery, one-wall, island, and peninsula.
- U - the U shape allows for uninterrupted work without a thoroughfare interfering.
- L - the L shape takes advantage of a corner area while allowing for an open floor-plan.
- Galley - the galley kitchen can work well in some situations, but it is still built around a passageway that will inevitably interfere with your work.
- One wall - this is a very common design for small kitchens.
- Island - normally found in bigger kitchens, the island is a favorite.
- Peninsula - both island kitchens and peninsulas are very conducive to interactive cooking and entertaining.
The Work Triangle
To achieve the best flow throughout the kitchen, designers apply the work triangle method. The connecting points of the triangle are the sink, stove and refrigerator, and the purpose of the triangle is to allow for easy access to all three while working in the kitchen. The idea is to have the three as equal a distance apart as possible. Obviously, the triangle has to be adapted to fit each of the different layouts, but the idea remains the same.
Your kitchen contractor should be experienced in configuring kitchen design, and should be able to discuss these concepts further with you. Request free, no-obligation estimates today from pre-certified, licensed contractors.
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