What Is An L Shaped Kitchen?

L-shaped kitchens – everyone talks about them but what are they and will it suit your home?

In this article, we will be explaining what an L-shaped kitchen is and discussing some of the key factors to consider when deciding on the right layout for the heart of your home.

L-Shaped Kitchen Explained

An L-shaped kitchen is a kitchen layout that consists of two adjacent walls or countertops that form an “L” shape. This layout is popular because it allows for efficient use of space and can be easily incorporated into a variety of kitchen designs.

The two walls that form the “L” shape typically include a shorter wall with storage and appliances, and a longer wall with countertops and additional storage.

The corner created by the L-shape provides ample space for a kitchen work area, such as a stove, sink or prep area.

This layout is often used in smaller spaces because it allows for efficient use of space and can also create a more open feel in a larger space.

L-shaped kitchens can be easily customised with a variety of materials and finishes to suit the style and needs of the homeowner.

What Are The Benefits of an L-Shaped Kitchen?

From maximising storage and counter space to improving functionality and workflow of your kitchen – an L shaped kitchen can be a practical and stylish choice for almost any home.

In this section, we’ll be discussing the many benefits this layout brings…

The Design Often Leaves Room For A Kitchen Island

If there is enough space, an island can be added to an L shaped kitchen, providing additional storage, counter space, and seating. The island can be customised to fit your specific needs, with options for drawers, cabinets, and shelving for storage, as well as a range of countertop materials for prep and serving.

Depending on the size of the island, you may also be able to add features such as a sink, dishwasher, or even a stovetop.

Improved Kitchen Flow And Functionality

This layout creates a clear path through the kitchen, allowing multiple people to move around and work in the space at the same time without feeling cramped or hindered.

This can be especially useful for those who love to cook and entertain, as it allows for a smooth flow of activity in the kitchen.

Options For Natural Lighting

One of the benefits of an L-shaped kitchen layout is the opportunity to incorporate windows and natural light into the design. The L-shape allows for windows to be placed on one or both walls, bringing in natural light and improving the overall lighting in the space. This can create a brighter and more welcoming kitchen, as well as providing a connection to the outdoors.

In addition to creating a brighter and more inviting space, natural light can also improve mood and energy levels (not to mention reducing electricity costs). Some people even say this can help to reduce the risk of accidents in the kitchen, as it provides better visibility and clarity.

More Storage And Counter Space Than Other Designs

In comparison to other kitchen layouts, the L-shaped design offers more storage and counter space than a one-wall or galley layout for example.

A one-wall kitchen only has space for storage and countertops along one wall, while a galley kitchen has storage and counter space on two parallel walls, but is typically narrower and may not allow for as much storage or counter space.

In contrast, an L-shaped kitchen allows for storage and counter space along two adjacent walls, creating a more spacious and functional layout.

They’re Incredibly Flexible

With two walls to work with, you have the opportunity to customize the layout of your kitchen to fit your specific needs and preferences.

This can be especially useful if you have specific appliances or pieces of furniture that you want to incorporate into your kitchen design.

The Layout Allows For The Separation Of Different Work Zones

With the layout allowing for the use of two walls, you can divide the kitchen into specific areas for different tasks.

For example; you can create a cooking area on one wall with the: stove, oven and other cooking appliances. And a cleaning area on the other wall with the sink, dishwasher and rubbish bin.

Having defined work zones in the kitchen can help to improve the efficiency and organisation of the space. It allows for a clear separation of tasks, making it easier to move between different areas of the kitchen without feeling cluttered or overwhelmed.

They Look Great In Almost Every Home

L-shaped kitchens can look great in almost every home due to their versatility and adaptability. The layout provides ample space for storage and countertops, making it suitable for a wide range of kitchen sizes, from small to large.

In terms of design, the L-shaped layout can be customized to fit a variety of aesthetics. The layout allows for the incorporation of a range of materials, finishes, and colours, making it suitable for a wide range of design styles. Whether you prefer a modern and minimalist look or a traditional and rustic aesthetic, the L-shaped layout can be adapted to fit your specific preferences.

How Do You Design An L-Shaped Kitchen?

Designing an L-shaped kitchen can be a bit tricky, so in this section we’ll be discussing how to maximise the space you have, how to decorate an L shaped kitchen, and how to avoid common mistakes when planning.

With these tips, you’ll be able to create a functional, beautiful, and efficient L-shaped kitchen that’ll make you smile for many years to come.

How To Maximise Space

One of the main benefits of an L shaped kitchen is the efficient use of space. However, to maximise space in an L-shaped kitchen, you’ll want to consider the following tips:

• Utilise the corner of the L-shape for a kitchen work area
  Such as a stove, sink, or prep area. This will free up space on the other countertops for food preparation.
• Use wall-mounted or hanging storage to save on floor space
  This could include a pot rack, floating shelves, or a pegboard for utensils.
• Consider a pull-out pantry or an appliance garage
  This will help you to keep the countertops clutter free.
• Use the space above the refrigerator for additional storage
  You can use this for a cabinet or even shelves.

How To Decorate The Kitchen

An L shaped kitchen can be decorated in a variety of ways, here are some of our top tips:

• Use different types of lighting
  This is a great way to create different moods and ambiances in the kitchen. This could include under-cabinet lighting, pendant lights or even a chandelier (if you’ve got the space).
• Add a backsplash to the walls
  This adds visual interest and protects the walls from spills and splashes.
• Use a variety of textures and patterns
  This is a great way to create interest and depth in the kitchen. You could include a textured tile backsplash, patterned countertops or a patterned backsplash.
• Incorporate plants or greenery
  This is especially good if you want to add a touch of nature and a sense of freshness to the kitchen.

Common Mistakes To Avoid When Planning An L-Shaped Kitchen

When planning an L-shaped kitchen, it’s important to avoid the common mistakes we see people making time and time again that could ruin the functionality and flow of the space.

Here’s our top mistakes to avoid:

• Not leaving enough space for appliances and countertops
  This can make the kitchen feel cramped and cluttered.
• Not leaving enough space for seating and eating
  If the kitchen is too small, it may not be comfortable to have guests or family members hanging out in the space.
• Not considering the flow of traffic through the kitchen
  We mentioned this earlier but it’s important to create a clear path through the kitchen so that multiple people can move around and work in the space at the same time without feeling cramped.
• Not considering the placement of windows and natural light
  I know, we mentioned this one earlier too, but if you don’t consider this it can create a dark and dreary kitchen.

Examples Of Beautiful L-Shaped Kitchens