Go for the Perfect Kitchen Layout
The following article “Go for the Perfect Kitchen Layout” written by Will Cole was published in the September 4, 2022 edition of the Houston Chronicle.
Are you planning to remodel your kitchen? If so, this is the perfect time to rethink your current layout to meet your families wants and needs.
Just like in the movie City Slickers, the secret to a perfect kitchen layout is “just one thing”. For some it’s about being efficient. For others its organization. For many it’s about creating a space to bring their family and friends into. There are even those who don’t cook, and they want to create a perfect space that could be considered a work of art.
The takeaway is that every layout is the right one as long as it is for you. Therefore, ask yourself how many cooks are in your family? How many people use the kitchen at the same time? How often do you entertain?
Keep in mind three basic areas to a kitchen: food preparation, cooking and cleanup. Traditionally, the work triangle consists of the refrigerator (where food is stored), the stove (where food is cooked) and the sink (where cleanup takes place) at each point of the triangle. This creates a very efficient kitchen space.
Some common kitchen layouts include the following:
L Shape – A kitchen with two adjacent walls. This shape allows for a free flow of traffic through the space. An island or peninsula can be added for more countertop space and seating.
Galley – A kitchen with parallel walls or one wall with an island. This is very efficient because everything is closely located. However, this may not be the best layout for entertaining or if you have multiple people working or walking through the kitchen.
U shape – This kitchen has three walls. This shape creates an efficient work triangle and generally works well for two or more cooks. There is usually plenty of counter space and less traffic flow. If the kitchen is large enough, an island can provide additional space for food prep, storage and eating.
Are two kitchen islands better than one? Double islands may be right for your kitchen remodeling project. This recent popular trend allows for one work island and one island with seating.
Whether you have a large or small kitchen, choosing the right layout will let you make the most out of your space.
Therefore, in closing, when considering your perfect kitchen remember it’s all about one thing. The one thing that is most important to you.