The effective U-shaped plan is very flexible and typically places its workstation on each of the three walls. The upside is that the ample counter and storage space on three sides maximizes efficiency, but they’re not the best option for entertaining or accommodating multiple cooks. Big traffic jam in the kitchen!
Another thing to consider is that you need a basic 8 x 8 foot space, and anything less will provide the recommended minimum 4-foot workspace for the center of the room. In a large kitchen for maximum efficiency, place a workstation on an independent island.
The L-shaped floor plan allows for two workstations on one wall and a third workstation on an adjacent wall. This layout is much more space efficient than the U-shaped plan, especially if the main workstations are located near the bend of the L. The L-shaped plan doesn’t fit very well in small kitchen spaces and you have to provide enough open counter space. . space between two workstations sharing a wall. It’s at least four feet.
The other thing to consider is that the layout of the workstations is very important. Work has to move from the fridge to the sink, then to the hob to the kitchen and serving area. An ideal dining area is the area opposite the elbow of the L plan.
Island is a popular design because it features a stand-alone workstation that often includes a sink or stove. This is a great plan for large kitchens where the work triangle goes beyond the twenty-six foot rule that dictates this for maximum effect. Island plans are not suitable for kitchens where two workstations must be on opposite walls.
The island is a great place for specialty stalls like the butcher’s section to chop vegetables or marble to make those delicious desserts. Another idea is a rolling island that can roll outside your yard or deck when you have guests arrive. When one end of an island is anchored to a wall or row of cabinets, it is called a peninsular plan.
The peninsula kitchen offers all the versatile features of an island but doesn’t require much space. Like islands, peninsular planning provides cooks with a place to work and views of another room rather than a wall. Once the meals are prepared, the peninsula can serve as a buffet or bar.
Single-wall diagrams are commonly found in cottages, vacation homes, and apartments. This floor plan is definitely the most space-saving but the least efficient for the cook. Normally there is one gate at each end, which means a lot of traffic. This can create a lot of trouble as well as frustration for the cook. Built-in stoves work best when the sink is centrally located next to the fridge and hob. If you have the space, allow for four feet of counter space on each side of the sink.
