An L-shaped kitchen is a popular and practical kitchen layout option that utilizes a two-wall corner space to maximize efficiency. With workspaces along two adjoining walls, the L-shaped design provides ample countertop area and storage while still leaving room for traffic flow. This versatile layout suits many kitchen sizes and styles.
Benefits of an L-Shaped Kitchen
There are several advantages that make the L-shaped kitchen floor plan a top choice among homeowners and designers:
Efficient Use of Space
By using two adjacent walls, the L-layout maximizes countertop workspace and storage in a relatively small footprint. All the major appliances and sinks can be placed along the legs of the “L” with a good working triangle established. This efficient design leaves room for kitchen tables or islands.
Flexible Traffic Flow
The central aisle created by an L-shaped counter allows for smooth traffic between the sink, stove, fridge and prep areas. Multiple entry points prevent bottlenecks. Islands can further improve flow.
Abundant Storage
With cabinets and counters extending along two walls, L-shaped kitchens offer extensive storage options. Base cabinets provide deep drawers for pots and pans while wall cabinets up top supply ample space for dishes, glasses and food items. The corner area where the legs meet provides access to more storage space.
Adaptability
The simple L-shaped floor plan can be adapted to work with all types of kitchen sizes, layouts and styles. It fits well in small spaces but also scales up nicely to create spacious work zones. Various configurations of the L offer flexibility.
L-Shaped Kitchen Variations
There are a few ways to orient an L-shaped kitchen based on space and preferences:
Classic L-Shape
This traditional design anchors counters and cabinets along two adjoining walls. One leg typically holds the sink, dishwasher and prep zone while the other has the range and refrigerator. An island can bridge the two.
Galley Kitchen L-Shape
Situated along parallel walls in a galley space, this L-shape provides a straight counter run and allows more room for tall upper cabinets. It works well in narrow spaces.
Broken L-Shape
One leg is interrupted, creating a section that juts out at a perpendicular angle, often for housing appliances. This provides more prep space located across from the cooktop.
U-Shaped Kitchen L-Layout
Adding a peninsula or island to an L-shape essentially converts it into a U with three countertop work zones. This creates ample space all around.
L-Shaped Kitchen Island Uses
Islands paired with L-shaped kitchen layouts maximize functionality in several ways:
- Additional prep/dining space
- Bar seating area
- Appliance housing like cooktops or sinks
- Storage cabinets and shelves
- Segmenting the space into work zones
Islands can be placed in the middle of the L or at the end as a peninsula. Sizes and shapes are flexible.
L-Shaped Kitchen Design Tips
- Place appliances along one leg and the sink/dishwasher on the other for an efficient work triangle.
- Locate the fridge near the end of the L-shape for easy access.
- Use the corner area where the two legs meet for spice pull-outs, cookie sheet storage or specialty cabinets.
- Include tiered countertops with a raised bar area for casual dining.
- Devote upper cabinets along one leg just for glasses and mugs for convenience.
- Install drawers with built-in organizers to hold utensils and tools.
- Make islands mobile for flexibility if space allows.
- Extend one leg into a peninsula with seating.
- Employ clever toe-kick drawers for maximizing every inch.
- Use glass cabinet doors to prevent a closed-in look if the L-shape has high upper cabinets.
L-Shaped Kitchen Ideas
Here are some L-shaped kitchen ideas to inspire your own design:
Open Shelving Kitchen
An airy L-shaped kitchen gains visual space with a shorter wall of open shelves instead of upper cabinets. The rest of the storage is concealed behind cabinet doors.
Contemporary L-Shaped Kitchen
A sleek, contemporary L-shaped kitchen features a streamlined design. Minimalist cabinets, frameless glass doors, and stainless appliances contribute to the modern aesthetic.
Farmhouse L-Shaped Kitchen
Characterized by a warm, rustic charm, this farmhouse L-shaped kitchen incorporates antique-style cabinets, an apron-front sink, and vintage pendant lights.
Compact L-Kitchen
This petite L-shaped kitchen maximizes function in a small studio apartment. Compact cabinets, narrow countertops, and stackable appliances conserve square footage.
Large L-Shaped Kitchen
Spanning two walls of this expansive kitchen, the lengthy L-shaped counter provides acres of workspace. An oversized island with seating anchors the space.
Galley L-Kitchen
Situated in a narrow galley footprint, this L-shaped kitchen features a streamlined design. Upper cabinets extend to the ceiling since there’s no soffit.
L-Shaped Kitchen Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Efficient use of two adjacent walls for counters and storage
- Allows for smooth traffic flow
- Flexible design adapts well to various kitchen sizes
- Abundant countertop and cabinet space
- Island can provide additional workspace
Cons:
- Limited wall space for extra cabinets or appliances compared to a U-shaped kitchen
- The corner area can be awkward to access
- Can feel closed off if high wall cabinets extend in an unbroken line overhead
- Long spans of upper cabinets can make the kitchen seem dark if not well lit
L-Shaped Kitchen FAQ
What are some tips for arranging an L-shaped kitchen?
Focus prep/cooking along one leg, clean-up on the other. Fridge at the end for accessibility. Sink under a window. Place ovens out of busy traffic flow.
What size should an L-shaped kitchen island be?
Islands around 35-45 inches wide allow room for seating and circulation. Size varies based on available space. Allow 48+ inches for walkways.
How much countertop space do L-shaped kitchens provide?
Total counter space depends on the kitchen’s dimensions but typically ranges from 16 – 28 linear feet for adequate workspace.
What’s the best way to maximize storage in an L-kitchen?
Use deep drawers for pots/pans. Incorporate pull-outs and specialty organizers. Add an angled peninsula for more cabinets.
Should the legs of an L-shaped kitchen be equal or different lengths?
Either works, but often one leg is longer to accommodate more appliances, cabinets and prep area. An equal L can balance the space symmetrically.
In summary, the versatile L-shaped kitchen design is an efficient and adaptable layout suited to a range of spaces. Maximizing two connected walls for ample counters and storage, the L-shape promotes smooth traffic flow and flexibility. With some thoughtful planning and smart storage solutions, an L-shaped kitchen can meet the needs of most homeowners.
