The right kitchen layout can make a big impact on any kitchen space, large or small. This has a visual role, as well as a practical, functional impact. An L shaped layout is a popular choice, and in medium to large sized kitchens, a kitchen island can be a useful, practical addition. So what are the benefits of adding a kitchen island to an L shaped kitchen? And how can you be sure to achieve the right results?
What is an L shaped kitchen layout?
So, first of all, what is an L shaped kitchen layout? Well, this is a kitchen layout that lines two walls of the room with kitchen cabinets. This is useful for both square and rectangular spaces, and both sides can be even or uneven in length, depending on your preference, and the available space. It is often beneficial to position the oven or the sink in the centre, as these are two kitchen fixtures that are most often in use.
How to add a kitchen island
If your L shaped kitchen is large enough, a kitchen island can be a fantastic addition, bringing a range of benefits. But how can this fit with your kitchen layout? And where should the island be positioned? Well, there are a number of options, including:
- At one edge of the cabinets- L shaped cabinets tend to line two walls of a kitchen. Positioning a kitchen island at the end of one of these rows of cabinets can turn this into a P or G shaped layout, which is very practical for any household.
- In the centre of the space- for kitchens that are very large, the kitchen island can be positioned in the centre of the room. This is probably the most popular option for most homes.
What are the benefits of adding a kitchen island to an L shaped kitchen?
There are a number of benefits to choosing a kitchen island for a kitchen with an L shaped layout. These advantages include:
- Adding storage space- a kitchen island can add valuable storage space to your kitchen. This can be perfect for storing more difficult items, like large pots and pans, or even crockery.
- Bridging the gap- in a large L shaped kitchen, the centre space can be quite vacuous. Adding a kitchen island in the centre, with enough room to move around and between surfaces, can be a good choice. This helps to bridge the gap and can add the perfect surface for preparing food, in handy reach of the oven, sink and fridge.
- Adding a seating option-From casual seating or a breakfast bar, to a full dining space, adding a kitchen island can bring the option of seating, and this can be useful in any kitchen. In fact, adding seating with a kitchen island is a practical way to use the space in any L-shaped kitchen.
For more information or advice about your new kitchen, get in touch with the team today, here atPriory Kitchen Studio. We are Preston’s leading kitchen design experts.
FAQs
There are a number of benefits to choosing a kitchen island for a kitchen with an L shaped layout. These advantages include: Adding storage space- a kitchen island can add valuable storage space to your kitchen. This can be perfect for storing more difficult items, like large pots and pans, or even crockery.
What is the rule for the L shape kitchen? ›
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 are the dimensions of an L shaped kitchen with an island? ›
It is recommended that L-shaped kitchens are around the size of at least 115 ft since the island should be no less than 4 feet in length and 2 feet in width.
How do you maximize an L shaped kitchen? ›
To maximize storage in a small L-shaped kitchen, utilize vertical space by installing ceiling-height cabinets. Additionally, consider incorporating pull-out shelves, and corner cabinets with built-in organizers to make the most of every nook of available space.
Does adding a kitchen island add value? ›
You could be looking at a few hundred for a basic model or a few thousand for something that's got all the bells and whistles. But get this, a well-done kitchen island can bump up your home's value. I've seen stats saying it can add like 50% of its cost back into your home's value.
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.
Where to put refrigerator in a 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 is the least efficient kitchen shape? ›
Some peninsula kitchens are inefficient because the peninsula sticks too far out, thereby blocking the walkway. L-shaped kitchens have the potential to flow well, but they don't always provide a circular traffic pattern. Of course, you may only have the option to use one of these layout styles in your space.
Is my kitchen big enough for an island? ›
The general rule is that you will need at least 42 to 48 inches (106.68 cm to 121.92 cm) of open space around your island. Another life-saving guideline: if your kitchen is less than 13 feet wide, we don't recommend adding an island at all.
How to fit a kitchen in an L-shaped room? ›
A clever solution in an L-shaped plan is to go vertical and stack an additional row of cabinets above. This works well if your room has high ceilings. Another great way to maximize storage capacity is to make the most of corners. Use carousel units to ensure no space is wasted.
The first step in planning your kitchen island is determining the size. The minimum recommended size of an island is 2-by-4 feet. However, the island's total area should be at most 10% of the kitchen area. For example, if the kitchen is 150 square feet, the island should be at most 15 square feet.
Is the L-shaped kitchen layout the most efficient? ›
The most efficient kitchens are designed with the 'working triangle' in mind. The working triangle allows you to move easily between your sink, oven/cooktop and refrigerator. L-shaped kitchens are a great proponent of the working triangle.
What is the most efficient kitchen layout for you? ›
The U-Shape design is the most versatile layout for both large and small kitchens. It provides storage and countertop space on three walls, which creates an efficient work triangle for food prep.
How much space do you need for an L-shaped kitchen? ›
L-Shape Kitchens should be planned with an overall area of roughly 111 ft2 (10.3 m2). L-Shape Kitchens are common kitchen layouts that use two adjacent walls, or an L configuration, to efficiently organize the various kitchen fixtures.
Can you add an island to an existing kitchen? ›
Whether you're looking to create more counter space, enhance storage options, or improve your kitchen's overall functionality and design, a kitchen island can be a welcomed addition. The varieties are infinite, with choices including size, shape, countertop material, cabinet style, and color.
How much does it cost to add an island to a small kitchen? ›
The average costs associated with installing a kitchen island range from $3,000-$6,000. However, high-end kitchen islands can cost upward of $15,000-$20,000.
Can you put an island in a narrow kitchen? ›
Just because you have a small kitchen doesn't mean you have to skimp on prep or dining space. A kitchen island suited to a small kitchen layout is the perfect space-saving solution.
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.
