The design of a kitchen can have the biggest impact on its functionality, so getting it right is vital. One of the best ways to start the design process is to initially use a series of template kitchen layouts and then adapt them to fit your space, requirements and budget.

galley kitchens

One of the simplest kitchen designs is a galley kitchen, making them popular with young people and first-time buyers. Typically, these types of kitchens can be designed and outfitted in standard styles and sizes, making them affordable and cost-effective.

Although galley kitchens are generally the smallest type, they also tend to be the most functional to move around due to the fact that all areas are within walking distance of one another. The prep, sink, and cooking areas tend to be parallel to each other along the same wall, creating an effective production line format for the kitchen. This also means that the other wall can be used for storage and as a general worktop.

L shaped kitchens

These are the most common shaped kitchens and are often finished with a high oven or fridge-freezer at the ends of the run. L-shaped kitchens also provide various storage options, given the various corners, Le-mans and magic corners are popular options.

L-shaped kitchens are ideal for those with a young family due to the fact that they often provide enough space for a breakfast table and thus make the room multifunctional. Areas like this often work well for younger children by providing plenty of space to eat and play while also offering a dedicated dining area reserved for adults.

U-shaped kitchens

With a U-shaped kitchen you have easy access to the main preparation, washing and cooking areas. While these shaped kitchens often don’t leave enough room for a table and chairs, they tend to work well by allowing generous space between areas. As a result, this shaped kitchen is a popular design for older families and share houses.

island kitchens

Island kitchens are one of the most popular kitchen designs as they provide a practical and functional layout, especially when combined with a wall unit bench with integrated ovens/multifunction ovens, tall fridges and freezers. When designed with all the prep, wash and cook areas in front of you, islands are easy to work with and also provide a very social way to cook. Islands also work well in multifunctional living spaces, where there may be a combined living/dining room.

These kitchens are well suited to larger rooms and often require a generous budget due to the additional resources required, such as a granite countertop on the island.

double island

In larger open spaces, such as converted barns/chapels, secondary islands can be used to divide the open space and provide additional counter space. Typically, the main island is used for prep, washing, and cooking and the secondary for entertaining and extra space.

Since these types of kitchens fit into larger spaces, they are often designed as part of a bespoke project. This ensures that the finishes are seen as part of the whole house, with stainless steel, glass and even muraspec (decorative paneling and wall cladding) often chosen to complete the look of the back of the island.

While the design of a kitchen depends on the size and shape of the room, there are a few key trends. The most obvious of which has been the change from conventional kitchens to the reduction of tall units. Tall and shallow storage units, which are as deep as a wall unit but often built from floor to ceiling, are becoming increasingly popular as they allow customers to see everything stores and help minimize countertop clutter.

As open plan spaces continue to rise in popularity, designers often adapt to create an overall finished look first and then work backwards throughout this theme to ensure the design works and looks right. This often means using fully integrated appliances wherever possible to minimize the impact the kitchen has on the room as a whole.

However, to ensure that your kitchen meets all your requirements, it is advisable to discuss your layout with a specialist designer.