Kitchen Layout Guide: L-Shape, U-Shape, Galley and Island
How to Choose the Right Kitchen Layout
The kitchen layout determines how efficiently you cook, how much storage you have, and how the space feels. Choosing the right layout before buying cabinets avoids expensive mistakes. This guide covers the four main layouts with dimensions, pros, and cons.
Kitchen Layout Comparison
| Layout | Minimum Room Size | Best For | Work Triangle | Storage Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Galley | 2.4m x 3m (7 sqm) | Narrow rooms, apartments | Excellent (tight) | Moderate |
| L-shape | 3m x 3m (9 sqm) | Most homes, open-plan | Good | Good |
| U-shape | 3m x 3.5m (10.5 sqm) | Dedicated kitchen rooms | Excellent | Maximum |
| Island | 4m x 4m (16 sqm) | Large open-plan spaces | Good to excellent | Maximum |
| Single wall | 2.5m x 3m (7.5 sqm) | Studios, open-plan | Linear (no triangle) | Limited |
Standard Kitchen Dimensions
Understanding standard dimensions helps you plan around existing plumbing and electrical points:
| Element | Standard Dimension | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Base cabinet height | 870 mm (with worktop) | Includes 150mm plinth + 30mm worktop |
| Base cabinet depth | 600 mm | Excludes handle overhang |
| Worktop depth | 600 mm (standard) / 900 mm (island) | Overhang 20-30mm at front |
| Wall cabinet height | 720 mm | Some ranges offer 900mm tall units |
| Wall cabinet depth | 300 mm | Shallower than base to avoid head bumps |
| Gap worktop to wall unit | 450-600 mm | This is your backsplash height |
| Tall unit height | 2100-2400 mm | Fridge housing, pantry, oven housing |
| Plinth height | 150 mm | Hides legs, allows toe kick |
Work Triangle and Zone Planning
| Measurement | Recommended Range | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Each triangle side | 1.2-2.7 m | Too short = cramped; too long = tiring |
| Triangle perimeter | 4-8 m | Efficient cooking workflow |
| Clearance between runs | 900-1200 mm | Comfortable passage + door opening |
| Island seating overhang | 300-400 mm | Knee room for bar stools |
| Sink to dishwasher | Adjacent or within 600mm | Easy loading, minimal dripping |
The work triangle is the traditional approach, but modern kitchens often use a zone system: prep zone (sink + chopping), cooking zone (hob + oven), and storage zone (fridge + pantry). Each zone has its own set of frequently used items within arm's reach.
Layout Pros and Cons
| Layout | Pros | Cons | Cost Relative to Single Wall |
|---|---|---|---|
| Galley | Efficient workflow, compact, both walls usable | Can feel narrow, no dining space, two cooks clash | 1.5x |
| L-shape | Versatile, open corner, room for table, one open side | Corner unit access is awkward, less worktop than U | 1.3x |
| U-shape | Maximum storage and worktop, excellent triangle | Two awkward corners, can feel enclosed, needs 3m width | 1.8x |
| Island | Social, extra worktop, seating possible, wow factor | Needs large room, plumbing/electrical to island adds cost | 2x |
| Single wall | Cheapest, simplest, all services on one wall | Limited storage, no work triangle, long walking | 1x |
Planning Checklist
Before committing to a layout, work through this checklist:
- Measure the room — Use a laser measurer for accuracy. Note window, door, and radiator positions. Mark existing plumbing and electrical points.
- Check the work triangle — Draw the fridge, sink, and hob positions. Measure the three sides of the triangle. Aim for 4-8m total.
- Plan for clearances — 900mm minimum between facing cabinet runs. 1200mm if two people cook together.
- Count storage needs — List every appliance, pot, pan, and pantry item. Ensure enough cabinet space for everything plus 20% growth.
- Consider lighting — Task lighting under wall units, ambient lighting for dining, and accent lighting for display.
- Budget allocation — Cabinets 40%, worktops 15%, appliances 25%, installation 15%, contingency 5%.
Use our kitchen renovation calculator to estimate materials for backsplash tiling, cabinet painting, and countertop replacement. For cost planning, the kitchen renovation cost calculator breaks down every element. If you are also renovating the bathroom, the bathroom renovation calculator provides tile and waterproofing quantities.
These calculations are estimates only. Actual requirements may vary depending on surface conditions, product specifications, and installation methods. Always consult a qualified professional for precise measurements.
Prices updated: 2026-03Frequently Asked Questions
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