What is the best kitchen plan for you?

The kitchen remains the most popular home renovation project. On average, a kitchen remodel will generate a 75-100% return on investment. So as you plan, start by coming up with a design concept, one that fits the new or existing space and your family’s personality.

Generally, most kitchen plans tend to be categorized into 5 basic layouts.

1. Galley kitchen.
This kitchen design is usually designed in homes where space is at a premium. It is an efficient use of space and consists of two opposite walls with a floor area of ​​approximately 3 feet. between countertops.

A great way to maximize space would be to open up one wall to the neighboring dining room or family room with a pony wall (short wall) and introduce a cantilevered countertop with stools on the other side.

2. L-shaped kitchen
The L-shaped kitchen is probably the most popular kitchen design for many reasons. This particular design uses two adjoining walls and is more suitable for the classic kitchen triangle.

This kitchen layout offers a great deal of flexibility when it comes to locating your workstations and as a result makes prepping, cooking, and cleanup so much easier. Be sure to provide ample counter space between each appliance for work surfaces.

3. U-shaped kitchen
The U-shaped kitchen is the most efficient layout. This plan uses three walls and provides a great workflow by staying within the classic kitchen work triangle. In other words, placing one major appliance per side allows the cook to effortlessly move and work between the sink, stove and refrigerator.

This setup also allows you to designate one side of the U as the bar area for eating with stools on the opposite side or, at best, space permitting, perhaps you can introduce an island within the overall space. from the kitchen. .

4. G-shaped kitchen

The G-shaped kitchen plan is similar to the U-shaped kitchen design, with an additional peninsula or fourth wall of cabinets.

You need a larger space to accommodate this type of kitchen design. Ultimately, it provides more space for food preparation, additional state-of-the-art appliances, and dining. It is ideal for multiple cooks, but would work better with the addition of a second work triangle. This is easily accomplished by simply adding a second sink (perhaps on the peninsula), with both cooks using the other appliances.

5. Kitchen with island
Islands work best in L-shaped or U-shaped kitchens that are typically open to another area. If you have the luxury of space, an island would be a welcome addition to any kitchen.

This free-floating piece of furniture allows you to socialize with your guest while cooking without feeling ostracized. The ideal size of an island ranges from 36″+ wide by 72″ to 96″+ long. Allow at least 42″ from the edge of the counter to any adjacent work surfaces, and preferably another 42″ for aisles and the Islands can be designed at counter height (36″), table height (29″), or a combination of both.