Find an Effective Kitchen Floor Plan
Kitchen floor plans are probably the most important, and most often overlooked, aspect of a quality kitchen design. The floor plan of your kitchen will determine traffic patterns, storage capacity, and general ease of use. Additionally, you should customize your kitchen floor plans based on your cooking and social preferences. Here are a few kitchen design tips to get you started.
U-Shaped Kitchens
The U-shaped kitchen design consists of upper cabinet storage on three walls of the kitchen, with work stations and appliances positioned below. The key to a successful U-shaped kitchen layout is the work triangle that is formed between the stove, sink, and refrigerator. The flow between these areas should be free of obstacles, and the total perimeter of the triangle should be less than 26 feet, with no single leg significantly longer or shorter than the others.
L-Shaped Kitchens
The L-shaped kitchen layout is extremely space efficient, but functions best in a large kitchen that opens into a dining or living area. However, cabinet space can be a problem with only two walls to work with. Some homeowners avoid jamming too many cabinets into their L-shaped kitchens by putting rarely used items, such as china, in cabinets outside the kitchen area. Also, installing a variety of cabinet styles and sizes can make your kitchen appear less rigid.
Add an Island
Both U- and L-shaped kitchen layouts can be enhanced with a free standing island, which provides both counter space and an informal dining area. Today's kitchen is often the social focal point of the home. Many home designers aim to create an expansive kitchen that simultaneously serves as a dining area and family room. Open and spacious kitchen floor plans that use islands at their centers are family friendly and ideal for entertaining kids or guests.
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