Pros & Cons of the Top 5 Kitchen Layouts

What kitchen layout will you love? When preparing for a kitchen remodel, there’s lots more to consider besides “do you like to cook” A good kitchen remodel not only plans for homeowner usage but considers existing plumbing and piping layouts, foot track, and effective storage solutions. By carefully planning a new layout, or making existing changes to your current layout, you can drastically cut down on costs, while still getting the kitchen of your dreams.

Today, we are running through the top 6 most popular kitchen layouts: One-wall, Galley, L-shape, Horseshoe, and Peninsula; and the pros and cons of each.

One-Wall (or Pullman)

Efficient and conserves space, the one-wall kitchen has everything you need stretched out across one long wall. A high counter or kitchen island can be easily added to give you more storage and counter space.

PROS:

• Great for saving space, especially in small apartments or lofts
• Provides a clean, minimal look with everything in a row
• Can easily add a table or install an island for added storage and counter space

CONS:

• Depending on the size of the space, a one-wall may not leave enough room for multiple people to prep food, wash dishes or socialize
• Not as popular and can decrease a home value without the added island for more counter space

Galley

Want to feel like you’re living on a boat? A galley kitchen consists of two parallel walls or countertops opposite each other, with a walkway in between. Arg, matey!

PROS:

• Can make great use of space, with easy access to plenty of countertops and storage
• Don’t have to deal with tricky (and expensive) corner cabinets

CONS:

• Can be a tight squeeze if the walkway has a thin width, so not great for multiple cooks or socializing
• Are often hidden away in the dark with little to no natural light

Horseshoe (or U-Shape)

This kitchen layout has three walls of cabinets and counter space, typically with an island in the middle if there’s room. It’s more common in older homes but can be easily modified into a more modern L-shape or open-concept layout.

PROS:

• If an island exists, there can  be plenty of space for cooks, prep work, socializing and high-traffic areas
• In smaller homes, it can be preferable to have a kitchen that is closed off from the dining area for discreet food prep and cleanup

CONS:

• In smaller homes with no space for an island, this layout can feel extremely cramped
• Corner cabinetry at the ends can be costly to install or repair

L-Shape

Open-concept spaces continue to be a number one trend in home design, leading to an increase in L-shape kitchen layout popularity. This layout uses two walls, forming an L, typically with an island in the middle.

PROS:

• Ideal for cooking and entertainment with plenty of breathing room for guests and chefs to co-mingle
• Appliances can be spread out across the 2 walls and island, providing multiple work zones
• A longer L can eliminate the need for an island altogether and keep high-traffic areas open
• This popular layout can lead to an increase in home value

CONS:

• Having the appliances spread out across the space can sometimes be frustrating if there’s only one cook in the kitchen
• More space and work areas to clean
• A popular layout that can lead to higher remodeling costs

 Peninsula

Similar to a U- or L-shape, a Peninsula kitchen usually has an island that juts out from a wall or counter. It oftentimes creates an asymmetrical “bar” look that can be very modern.

PROS:

• Unlike a true island, it can accommodate more appliances or seating in a longer space
• Great for kitchens that are too narrow for an island
• Can better define the kitchen from other rooms in the house

CONS:

• Foot traffic can bottle neck on the inside of the peninsula where cabinetry is tight
• Typically leads to only one entry-point into and out of the space, which can further kitchen traffic jams

Did you find this outline of kitchen layouts helpful? Then, definitely read some more of our insider advice for kitchen renovations! 

• View our portfolio of kitchen remodeling projects
• Find out the pros and cons of the top cabinet finishes out there
• Read about these 6 kitchen updates that will maximize your home value

In the Chicago area, and looking to remodel your kitchen? Contact us, we’re ready to help you realize the kitchen of your dreams!