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L-Shaped vs U-shaped vs Island Kitchen
May 24, 2021
Remona Divekar
A well-planned kitchen layout is crucial to gaining an efficient, enjoyable space. Traditionally, kitchens come in various shapes, Kitchen Ideas finds out which shape suits which kitchen.
One of the most important factors that define the design and functionalities of a kitchen is the shape of the kitchen. It should match with the client’s thoughts and at the same time meet the needs in terms of zoning and fitment of appliances, cabinets, accessories etc.
Prospective homeowners and interior design enthusiasts alike tend to gravitate towards different shapes to give the kitchen a modern, stylish appeal while taking care of the utility and convenience aspect.
While there are many shapes of layout for a kitchen, in a broader sense it can be categorised into three major categories – L-shaped, U-shaped and Island. However, it is not straightforward to say which is better; each has its own merits and demerits and the choice has to be made on a case-by-case basis. Let’s look at the pros and cons of preferring one layout over the other and try to assess which one is better in which type of kitchens.
L-shaped kitchens
L-shaped kitchens are good for single occupants as it makes the most of the space available while maximising the corner space. These types of kitchens provide open-concept cooking experience. Some designers are of the opinion that if layouts are considered as face value, L-shaped kitchens are the most island-friendly kitchen layout because of their spaciousness, sufficient counter and storage space, ensuring that the workspace is not crowded and is beneficial for households.
However, some interior designers are of the opinion that L-shaped islands may be larger and provide more preparation space that is not exactly an open-concept. It can hamper efficiency during meal preparation where the shape may seem to spread out and not necessarily maximise storage space, since corners tend to decrease accessibility. Additionally, interior designers observe, L-shaped kitchens often require more finishing material and they can carry a higher price tag than galley kitchens and U-shaped kitchens.
"The design and layout of the space is more inclined towards the user’s preference and their lifestyle. A straight kitchen of seven feet long can suffice a family of four. At the same time, a U-shaped kitchen can still fall short even if it has the highest storage capacity in comparison to L-shaped and single wall kitchens.
A parallel kitchen is recommended since L, U, C-shaped kitchens tend to waste space in corners. Although there are corner space storage modules available in the market, they are not that effective and are high on maintenance. In the Indian homes, there is a tendency of going overboard with the storage people fancy for, that is a big no."
Neelanjan Gupto
Founder
Neelanjan Gupto Design and Co
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U-Shaped
U-shaped islands may be a chef’s dream with three walls of cabinetry and appliances – enough to increase the efficiency of the kitchen. Both highly functional and uber-spacious, U-shaped islands are the largest and most accommodating with an extra storage and workspace that can house more than one appliance if they are big enough but its sheer size can prove to be its biggest downfall.
Some homeowners find cooking and cleaning less efficient and may hate going the distance from one side to the other. These islands are bulky and can close off the kitchen from the rest of the home. Another problem with U-shaped kitchen is a peninsula bar and an island in the middle of the U. This layout also has a trapping effect.
For a larger kitchen with more space available and greater need for storage and a place to eat, the U-shape is perfect as it offers counters and workspaces on three walls and there is still an option of adding an island in the middle. Essentially, the U-shaped kitchen can offer the best of both worlds. It will have all the space required to make sure it can be used to its full potential – perhaps separating the cooking and preparation areas and giving an ample storage space, but the space in the middle is something the homeowners have to decide.
Island Kitchen:
The island layout is ideal for people who want their kitchen to be a social hub. Island kitchens are incredibly popular because they provide whole host of new design options for new builds and renovations. It can enhance the layouts giving great depth and opportunity. They provide the ultimate connection between the kitchen and open-plan living spaces. While the other side of this type of kitchen is the display and the pressure to keep it clean is greater.
The open connection between kitchen and living area means there is little separation when it comes to noise and activity. The island kitchen can be transformed into a major feature by shaping it into a unique form or using dramatic materials such as marble or timber. Additionally, rectangular island benches provide harmonious proportions. The short return provides the benefits of an island bench but occupies less floor area. It opens up the kitchen to the adjacent area, allowing for better circulation but this layout creates a kitchen with unusable open space.
"A U-shaped kitchen is an advantage in a luxury kitchen as it is always a first preferred choice. However, due to space constraints in studio kitchens, L-shaped kitchens are preferable because they leave one end open and there is more space for the movement. Subject to space availability, U-shaped is most recommended.
An island-shaped kitchen is possible provided there is a minimum of one-meter space for moving available around the island. Islands are handy and are definitely of use. However, if space is a constraint, then the island should not have the hob or the cooking apparatus on it as it would be highly dangerous. If the island is accommodating, the cooking apparatus there should be minimum 1.5-meter space around the island for movement."
Mahesh Punjabi
CEO
Mahesh Punjabi Associates
The two-island kitchen layout makes a lot of sense in large spaces because one large island can become impractical. In such cases, it is better to split the space into two and have two separate islands. There are a lot of options and design ideas to play with when considering two islands. It could be one island for cooking and one for eating. Some U-shaped kitchens are large enough to host an island.
Which should be chosen?
At the end of the day, there is no set answer when it comes to choosing a kitchen, an island or a peninsula U or L. Depending on the kitchen size, family size, personal preferences and needs it’s important to be gravitating towards one over the other. If having an additional workspace is required with a dedicated space for it, a kitchen island is a smart pick. If tight on space, a kitchen peninsula is a great choice in terms of its economical size. No matter what is chosen, the kitchen platform will be sleek, modern, and trendy with either of these options.
[Keep reading Kitchen Ideas for more such articles and stories.]
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