What is the best layout for an L-shaped kitchen? 9 arrangements to maximize space (2024)

The classic, L-shaped kitchen is one of the most tried-and-tested layouts say the experts: practical yet full of design possibilities to maximize every space. So whether you have a narrow, compact space or a large, open-plan room, the question is how do you get the most out of your kitchen with an L-shaped layout? What design tips and tricks should we be exploiting or avoiding to elevate the L-shaped kitchen into a thing of beauty and functionality for the entire household to use?

'A kitchen layout or, even a small kitchen layout, with an L-shape, is a modern and space-efficient solution,' explains Simon Taylor, managing director of Simon Taylor Furniture. 'L-shaped kitchens tend to feature one long run of tall cabinetry against the wall – with a bank of built-in appliances and plenty of storage – and a shorter run, either fitted against another wall at a 90-degree angle or as a peninsular with under-counter cabinetry beneath the worktop. If the kitchen is in an open-plan space, we always recommend including a kitchen island for additional storage and to zone the preparation and surface cooking areas, with the addition of seating to make it a social hub.'

Traditional L-shaped kitchens are also ideal layouts for incorporating the ‘kitchen triangle’ rule so the three essential functions of sink, refrigerator, and stove are within easy reach of each other, ideally no less than four feet and no more than nine feet.

'L-shaped kitchens are great for those who wish to have everything in close proximity and an adjoining worktop to help it flow,' adds Melissa Klink, creative director at Harvey Jones. 'Core appliances such as ovens should be sitting under the hob if in a compact space, or at eye level toward one end. The dishwasher should always be positioned close to the sink, and if the L-shape incorporates a peninsular with breakfast bar seating, I always recommend space for a wine cooler nearby for easy reach.'

What is the best layout for an L-shaped kitchen?

Finding the best kitchen layout for your space is imperative, so we've rounded up our favorite inspirational design tricks to make a classic L-shaped layout work for your kitchen, even if you only have a small kitchen to work with.

1. Work the kitchen triangle rule with an island

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(Image credit: deVOL/Our Food Stories)

A simple way to optimize the flexibility of an L-shaped kitchen is to incorporate an island unit. This will offer more kitchen storage and countertop space and ensure the refrigerator, stove and sink all remain within easy reach – the three essential functions of the working triangle rule. Island units can be tailored to house whatever you wish, from extra storage to a second sink, more preparation surface, and a perch for family and friends to gather.

This beautiful L-shaped kitchen with an island unit from deVOL has a modern, vintage mood painted in a warm neutral called ‘Mushroom’. To differentiate the zones and create a centerpiece, the kitchen island features a bespoke, aged copper worktop in contrast to the pale stone with dark veining on the main, perimeter, and L shape.

2. Take the architecture into account

(Image credit: Lundhs)

The strict lines and modern mood of this charcoal, L-shaped kitchen contrast with the simple, architectural bones of this old, Norwegian farmhouse and the light-enhancing simplicity of the rest of the kitchen. It is the ultimate lesson in how to renovate a property, adding a modern dimension while honoring the building’s past. The kitchen is made up of sleek, black cabinetry from IKEA, topped with a dark, crystal-flecked stone from Lundhs; the result is a stark, L-shaped, silhouette that will never date.

'Opting for all-black kitchen cabinetry, the homeowners chose to keep the upper walls free of cupboards to ensure the feeling of spaciousness was maintained,' says Hege Lundh, marketing and business development director of Lundhs Real Stone. 'Complemented by a brushed, brass tap, light wood flooring, traditional wooden furniture, and dark kitchen countertops, the end result is a perfectly balanced, welcoming space.'

3. Zone a large room with an L-shaped layout

What is the best layout for an L-shaped kitchen? 9 arrangements to maximize space (3)

(Image credit: Tom Howley)

This classic, L-shaped kitchen in a large, open-plan space works on so many levels. The main run of cabinets includes ergonomic banked appliances and an abundance of practical storage while the addition of an island unit creates a casual dining spot, more storage and a design device to subtly demarcate the zones.

'The L-shape can be a social choice for larger spaces as the L can morph into a seating area and provide space for extra countertops and cupboards,' explains design director, Tom Howley.

'Using different kitchen cabinet colors or graduating shades can create interest and an illusion of extra space. The best way to pull an open-plan kitchen together is to view it as a whole, with multiple, separate zones within the space. Then break it down into dedicated areas, allocating functions to each zone: an area for cooking, a social dining area, a snug/lounge area and even a compact office space.'

4. Optimize a narrow kitchen

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(Image credit: Jessica Nelson Design / Carina Skrobecki Photography)

L-shaped layouts work particularly well in narrow kitchens, with one longer run of cabinets and a shorter return creating a functional layout. To maximize the potential of this design, consider adding a long island to mimic a hardworking, galley kitchen – this will boost storage and preparation possibilities. You could also extend the L-shaped return, as shown in this kitchen, to fit in a corner seating nook, transforming the narrow dimensions into a multi-zone space.

'We included the banquette dining corner to offer a nice landing space for family and guests in the kitchen,' says designer Jessica Nelson. 'Our client was excited about the idea of adding wallpaper here, which really elevated the coziness of this space.'

Do be aware that you will need at least 3ft (and more if possible) of walkway space between the island and the perimeter kitchen base cabinets. This will ensure easy traffic flow around the kitchen and enough clearance for cupboard and appliance doors to open fully without knocking into one another.

5. Choose an L-shaped island when wall space is lacking

What is the best layout for an L-shaped kitchen? 9 arrangements to maximize space (5)

(Image credit: Roundhouse)

If wall space is at a premium and a traditional, L-shaped kitchen is out of the question, another option is to include an L-shaped island unit. This contemporary, pared-back modern kitchen has an elegant floating quality to it, so the cabinetry doesn’t over-clutter the airiness of the space. Paired with a simple, hand-stained timber bar and modern rustic stools, the L-shaped island becomes a central hub of the kitchen for cooking or enjoying a laid-back lunch or morning coffee.

6. Consider the placement of windows

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(Image credit: WRJ Design / JLF Architects / Audrey Hall Photography)

'In a house designed to take fullest advantage of breathtaking views, an L-shape was selected for the kitchen to allow for giant windows on two walls that take the place where upper cabinets might more traditionally be hung,' says Paul Bertelli, principal at JLF Architects.

'This floods the space with light while enjoying sweeping views of the Teton mountain range in Wyoming to connect the home’s interior with surrounding nature, as well as letting homeowners see and welcome arriving guests.'

The extended island balances the longer leg of the L, offering the high-functioning, efficiency of a galley-style layout for a true chef’s kitchen while providing plenty of casual counter seating and openness. The translucent glass white cabinetry and sleek lines balance the rustic warmth of reclaimed wood ceilings and rare American chestnut floors that help root the space in its regional context.

7. Wrap around an awkward corner

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(Image credit: The Main Company/Hatch + Mason)

L-shaped kitchens are highly flexible designs that can work around awkward architecture or tricky corners such as this beautiful, bespoke kitchen set in a property on the picturesque English coastline. Drawing in the eye and creating a striking first impression, the L-shape run of cabinetry is painted in Little Greene’s Basalt, a deep, bold and sophisticated hue. The shorter branch of the L is the perfect peninsula linking seamlessly to the open-plan living zone while the longer run of units, around the corner, forms part of a narrow galley-style area with an ingeniously concealed pantry.

8. Place tall refrigeration in the corner

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(Image credit: Olive & Barr)

Tall refrigerators and larder units – either freestanding or built-in – are best placed at either end of the run of units in an L-shaped kitchen layout. This will ensure the flow of the kitchen isn’t interrupted, especially if your kitchen is made up mainly of base units. Just remember to install any cooling appliances next to a plug socket and water inlet if it has an ice maker and water dispenser.

9. Make wall units 'invisible'

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(Image credit: Martin Moore Design)

L-shaped kitchen layouts are generally made up of a bank of tall, floor-to-ceiling cabinetry on one run of units and then base cupboards on the other. If you have a mix of both and you don’t want the kitchen cabinets imposing too much into the room, try using colors and materials that meld into the surrounding walls. With rich, teal-colored upholstery, the star of this Art Deco-style kitchen is then the L-shaped island with built-in banquette seating.

'It forms the social hub of the kitchen and is a great solution for smaller spaces where a separate island and dining table is not possible,' says Richard Moore, design director at Martin Moore.

FAQs

How do you plan a small L-shaped kitchen layout?

L-shaped kitchens are a great fit for smaller rooms as they generally take up just two walls. This makes them ideal for smaller homes and apartments and also for open-plan, studio living as you can add an island unit or dining table to zone the space and keep it functional at the same time. To give you a rough idea of how much space you have, measure the room and mark out the position of windows and doors taking into account radiators and plug sockets. Consider wall height and any other awkward architectural features like sloping ceilings or stepped floors.

'I would recommend an L-shape kitchen for those who need to maximize worktop surface in a compact space and who prefer to keep the kitchen separated in an open-plan setting,' adds Melissa Klink, creative director at Harvey Jones. 'I always advise keeping tall furniture to one end of the run as this allows a continuous flow of worktops elsewhere. It is also really important to keep the cooktop zone and sink zone as far apart as possible to ensure sufficient and practical counter space in between.'

As with all kitchen layouts, your choices are to a great extent dictated by the shape and size of your room, but that doesn’t mean you have to be restricted when it comes to designing your ideal kitchen ideas.

What is the best layout for an L-shaped kitchen? 9 arrangements to maximize space (2024)

FAQs

What is the best layout for an L-shaped kitchen? 9 arrangements to maximize space? ›

' Traditional L-shaped kitchens are also ideal layouts for incorporating the 'kitchen triangle

kitchen triangle
The primary tasks in a home kitchen are carried out between the cook top, the sink and the refrigerator. These three points and the imaginary lines between them make up what kitchen experts call the work triangle.
https://en.wikipedia.org › wiki › Kitchen_work_triangle
' rule so the three essential functions of sink, refrigerator, and stove are within easy reach of each other, ideally no less than four feet and no more than nine feet.

What is the best layout for an L-shaped kitchen? ›

A full-size island with a prep sink and seating creates a focal point that bridges the two sides of the L. The second sink makes it easy for two cooks to work, and the island seating provides a spot for casual meals. A new refrigerator framed by pantry cabinets consolidates food storage.

How do I maximize space in my L-shaped kitchen? ›

L-shaped kitchen with an island design

An L-shaped kitchen with cabinets and an island will also increase storage and benchtop space. Depending on how large your L-shaped kitchen is, you can add an Island bench to increase storage and also create additional working surface.

What are the rules for L-shaped kitchens? ›

In an L-shaped kitchen, applying the triangle rule provides maximum functionality and agility of space usage. The kitchen sink is placed on the longest part of the L, while the fridge and the oven, for example, are placed on the perpendicular wall.

How to organize cabinets in an L-shaped kitchen? ›

Again, it depends on where your windows are, but generally in an L-shaped kitchen with different-length runs, we would locate the upper cabinets above the longer run. This allows more wall storage compared with the shorter run. It also ensures glassware and cooking condiments are within easy reach of the cooktop below.

What is L shaped layout? ›

As the name suggests, an L-Shaped kitchen layout is formed of two adjacent walls and runs of cabinetry, often referred to as the “legs” of the L. The length of the legs of the L can vary based on the available space of the area and the shape itself is quite suitable for both large and small kitchens.

Where to put an island in an L-shaped kitchen? ›

Optimize the L-shaped layout by placing the island in the open space, forming the "L" shape. This arrangement allows for a smooth flow of traffic and easy access to different workstations.

Where to put a fridge in an L-shaped kitchen? ›

In an L-shaped kitchen, it's convenient to place the oven and sink nearest the corner, on opposite walls. The refrigerator could then be installed near the end of the longer wall. This will keep the line from the sink to the stove clear and ensure the refrigerator door doesn't block heavily-trafficked pathways.

How do you make an L shaped room look bigger? ›

By choosing smaller furniture, the walkways through the room remain clear. Using your large and tall furniture at each end of the room helps to make the room look wider. If you were to put the bookcase or the sofa against the long wall instead, it would make the room appear closed in and narrow.

What does an L shaped kitchen layout do? ›

L-shaped kitchens are tucked into corners and usually have two open ends which allows for different entries and exits. This means traffic can flow freely through the space. A free flowing kitchen can be really beneficial when entertaining because less traffic jams mean more room and less stress when preparing food!

What is the disadvantage of L shaped kitchen layout? ›

One of the main disadvantages of L-shaped kitchens is that they can be challenging to navigate with multiple cooks. The layout may not provide enough space for two or more people to work comfortably simultaneously, which can lead to frustration and delays in meal preparation.

What are the dimensions of an L kitchen layout? ›

L-Shape Kitchens have long linear lengths that range from 8'-13' (2.4-4 m) and short lengths of 3'-9' (. 9-2.7 m). L-Shape Kitchens should be planned with an overall area of roughly 111 ft2 (10.3 m2).

What is the kitchen triangle rule for L shape kitchens? ›

Traditional L-shaped kitchens are also ideal layouts for incorporating the 'kitchen triangle' rule so the three essential functions of sink, refrigerator, and stove are within easy reach of each other, ideally no less than four feet and no more than nine feet.

What to do in the corner of an L-shaped kitchen? ›

Tips for Maximizing Value in an L Shaped Kitchen

As previously mentioned, use your corner space for your sink and save a straight cabinet for drawer space or shelving. This better uses the corner space and provides you with additional storage that is more easily accessible. Plan your appliance placement accordingly.

How do I organize my kitchen to maximize space? ›

50 Clever Kitchen Organization and Storage Ideas to Clear out the...
  1. Use Kitchen Tools as Decor. ...
  2. Add a Bar to the Kitchen Island. ...
  3. Group Similar Items in the Pantry. ...
  4. Add Deep Cabinets to the Island. ...
  5. Create an Appliance or Pantry Garage. ...
  6. Design a Wine and Drinks Section. ...
  7. Match Kitchen Appliances. ...
  8. Group Dishware.
5 days ago

Where should a refrigerator be placed in an L shaped kitchen? ›

In an L-shaped kitchen, it's convenient to place the oven and sink nearest the corner, on opposite walls. The refrigerator could then be installed near the end of the longer wall. This will keep the line from the sink to the stove clear and ensure the refrigerator door doesn't block heavily-trafficked pathways.

What do you put in the corner of an L-shaped kitchen? ›

Tips for Maximizing Value in an L Shaped Kitchen

As previously mentioned, use your corner space for your sink and save a straight cabinet for drawer space or shelving. This better uses the corner space and provides you with additional storage that is more easily accessible. Plan your appliance placement accordingly.

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