Top Tips for Designing an L-Shaped Kitchen (2024)

The functional layout consists of worktops on two adjoining walls that meet in one corner toform an 'L'. It's a popular set-up that allows for more floor space than aU-shaped kitchen,without compromising too much on worktop real estate.

Alternatively, in a large room, it's possible to have only one work surface run along a wall andthe other to protrude into the living space, creating a divider between the kitchen and apotential leisure area.

There are many ways you can make an L-shaped kitchen layout work for you, regardless of thespace you have in your kitchen.

Best for small or medium sized rooms, the L-shaped kitchen requires the use of at least one wall– usually two – creating more of a social space ideal for entertaining.

The layout allows for multiple cooks to mingle when hosting a dinner party or family meal.However, without an island, you'll be facing away from your guests if you're busy preparing food.

To transform the room into an eat-in kitchen-diner, incorporate a table and chairs – best placedat one side of the room to avoid the kitchen becoming too busy. This can double up as aworkstation, too.

If space allows, incorporate a kitchen island;creating a focal point for the room and a place to eat as an alternative to a traditional tableand chairs set-up. Pull-up bar stools are convenient and space-saving; often easy to tuck awayunder the island.

For smaller kitchenswith a limited number of wall cabinets, an L-shaped kitchen with an island can double asadditional storage, while increasing worktop space – find out more about how to create asmall kitchen with an islandset up..

In contrast, for bigger kitchens, an island can provide functionality to an unused space andcreate structure for oddly shaped rooms.

If you prefer privacy over open plan, a kitchen island provides a hidden area for foodpreparation, keeping any mess out of view from guests.

A kitchen needs to be functional as well as stylish, so consider smart storage solutionswhen designing your L-shaped kitchen layout.

If space is limited and incorporating an island isn't a viable option, you could take cabinetheights all the way from floor to ceiling and consider an L-shapedcorner unit storagecarousel, to make the most of every cupboard.

If you're maximising your space with height, ensure you have adequate ceiling lighting elsewhereor consider installing under-mounted down-lightsunder the cabinetryso you don't have to deal with dark spots.

Don't forget to consider the 'working triangle' too; the three main kitchen elements – oven,sink and fridge – should be positioned a comfortable distance apart for convenience.

The L-shaped kitchen design can create an open floor space – making it easier to move around,while giving the illusion of a bigger room.

Light coloured paint or wood stain will help spread sunlight, provided you're careful not toblock any natural light shining through windows and doors with large decorations like flowers orplants. Discover how to choose the bestkitchen colour combinationsto create the illusion of space.

Keep worktop clutter to a minimum – storing as much away in cabinets as space allows. While it'sconvenient to leave appliances in arms-reach, if you don't use them daily, neatly store themaway and relocate anything that doesn't belong in the kitchen.

A sociable and spacious kitchen layout, an open plan L-shaped kitchen could be the answer toyour storage needs.

Functional and ideal for a two-wall setup, L-shaped kitchens neatly fit into the corner of aroom, providing maximum flexibility for cooking and entertaining. Whether you’re looking forlarge or small L-shaped kitchen ideas, we’re here to help. Simply book an appointmentto visit your nearest showroom, or design your dream room with our kitchen planner.