Today marks the halfway point to our new, refreshed kitchens. We have our inspiration and our measurements; next we consider layout & cabinetry.
LAYOUT
Basically, there are 5 different kinds of kitchen layouts. Some are better suited to your needs and space than others. Here is a breakdown:
Single-Line: Good for small to medium-sized, narrow kitchens. Note all the appliances on one wall.
Single-Line with Island: Good for larger kitchens; accommodates multiple cooks.
Bonus Tips: The island should be no closer than 48” from the cabinets; if you don’t have room for an island, opt for a rolling cart.
L-Shaped: Practical, accommodates multiple cooks and easily adaptable to a small dining table or island.
U-Shaped: Perfect for large kitchens, provides ample storage.
Bonus Tip: For the comfort of multiple cooks, do not position work surfaces directly across from each other.
Gallery: Good for narrow kitchens and food preparation. Provides for good storage.
Bonus Tip: Allow at least 48” between facing cabinetry.
CABINETS & DRAWERS
- If you have a small kitchen, opt for narrow, high cabinets with full-extension drawers.
- Treat yourself to high-quality, soft-closing hinges.
- Bonus Tip: A 2” filler/spacer between the wall and cabinet will enable full operation of drawers and doors.
- Store what you can in drawers versus overhead cabinets
- Treat yourself to drawers with integrated hardware that close slowly and quietly.
- Bonus Tip: Don’t position drawers in a corner.
- Make use of drawer and cabinet organizers.
- Bonus Tip: If you are short on space for drawers and cabinets, use a vertical wall system like IKEA’s Asker Wall Rail System.
And speaking of IKEA, the retailer provides for various styles of cabinets & drawers.
Country: Akurum Fagerland
Modern Country: Akurum Lidingo
Scandinavian: Akurum Solar
Modern: Akurum Abstrakt
Tomorrow’s Kitchen Refresh installment: Appliances & Lighting!