Let’s talk about kitchen design!
All design, no matter how smartly developed, is still subjective.
Renovating the kitchen is expensive; therefore, it must be well-planned and highly functional.
Designs are constantly changing and evolving, from upgrading the appliances and equipment to ensuring enough space to move around comfortably.
Getting the kitchen’s layout right is essential. It is irrespective of whether the kitchen is large or small; cleverly planning the layout can make all the difference. And if your kitchen is part of your living area, it has to blend in with the rest of the space.
There are many considerations about what makes a design “good” when planning. Some are mathematical, others are practical. Design rules are always relevant, so let your designer work with proportion, scale, repetition and aesthetics.
When designing a kitchen layout, think about your most frequent tasks. People who like to cook require more counter space than those who cook infrequently or prepare simple meals. Are you a baker? Then go for a wall oven rather than an under countertop one. It will save you from a lot of bending. If you do not like to entertain or invite people over, you do not need a dining table for 8.
Ensure your kitchen includes enough electrical outlets in areas where you plan to use a coffee machine, toaster, blender, and other countertop appliances. Install multiple outlets along the backsplash so you will have electricity wherever needed.
There are several different types of kitchen layouts – each with its own pros and cons. Ultimately, your configuration will be based on the space and your preferences.
One wall kitchen
This is great for kitchens where the space is very limited. In this type of layout, a single wall is used for all the cabinets, shelves, and equipment and helps create a clean aesthetic.
Open plan kitchen
One of the most popular styles of kitchens in recent years, since kitchens are becoming a dual-functional spaces for cooking as well as entertaining. Our kitchen can also be the homework base or a relaxed office space and part of the living room area.
Galley kitchen
Galley kitchen is cost-effective option where cabinet usage is optimised economically. In this layout, every bit of space is used for storage.
In this layout, counters run along the two parallel walls. The galley design allows comfort, nostalgia, intimacy, and sometimes needed privacy.
L-shaped kitchen
This is the most popular kitchen shape in Malta with the dining table placed in the middle. Here, the kitchen cabinets are on two perpendicular sides or walls. The open layout of the kitchen allows greater workflow and appliance flexibility.
U-shaped kitchen
Great for large-sized kitchens and better workflow. Here, the layout allows for much kitchen storage, with shelves and cabinets going right up to the ceiling. You can use open shelves or cabinets to avoid cramming the kitchen. Although I do not like open cabinets in Malta because of the high density of fine dust and Sahara sand in the air, the open shelves can get dirty in just a few hours.
The U-shape works for all room sizes and is also the ideal layout for giving enough space for a kitchen island.
Island kitchen
Island kitchens are trendy – but it is not for everyone. Islands are usually placed in an area with plenty of “unused” space, where the “working triangle” otherwise can’t be managed. A smartly placed island allows you to keep engaging with friends and family while prepping meals on the island. You can also make a breakfast area with barstools at the island.
Peninsula kitchen
If your kitchen doesn’t have enough space for a kitchen island, you can use the peninsula layout instead. Here, the kitchen counter extends from the kitchen wall or the cabinetry and can be used to prepare food, eat, or carry out other tasks. It works better for smaller kitchens that don’t have the space to feature a stand-alone island unit.
This layout allows better interaction between the kitchen and the dining or living area.
The kitchen is often called the heart of the home. It’s long since surpassed serving a single function of cooking. It is also used for socialising, living, working, and playing. Planning the kitchen is just as much about aesthetics as practicality.
The ideal kitchen layout will vary dramatically from house to house and person to person. The best structure will depend on your home’s orientation and physical space and where the natural light is. If you are not sure where to start, please give me a call so I can helpp you with your new kitchen.
