Holly’s choice: U-SHAPED KITCHEN
Maximise the potential of this versatile layout, making the most of every inch of available space
When planning your kitchen, you’ll find that some layouts work better than others in your space. A U-shape is one of the most popular options – and for good reason. It’s arguably the most practical design and works in most sizes and shapes of room. This configuration also boasts generous amounts of storage compared with galley or L-shaped styles.
How wide should a U-shaped kitchen be?
U-shaped layouts can work in large spaces, but even small kitchens can benefit from this design. Just be sure you have at least two metres between the opposite banks of units. In total, a U-shaped kitchen should be situated in a space around 10 square metres to make sure there’s enough room between all of the cabinetry and that you can walk and move around comfortably.
How do I plan the space?
The design concept of the ‘golden triangle’ is a natural fit with a U-shaped layout. When planning your space, keep your fridge, cooker and/or hob and sink between 120cm and 270cm apart. This will make for a practical, timeefficient and safe use of your space – something that is harder to achieve in longer, galley or L-shaped kitchens.
What style and materials create the most impact?
In a smaller space with a central window, it may pay to stick to a largely white scheme. Modern high-gloss units will help to keep light levels up, as will glazed tiles and stainless-steel surfaces. Large rooms may be more able to handle deep colour, dark wood finishes and hits of pattern.
Can I include an island?
In a small room, you may prefer to have the look of a U-shaped kitchen while swapping out a long run of units on one side for an island or peninsula unit. This may make your space more usable and is especially useful if your kitchen has a back door.
How about a dining table?
There are two main ways to work in a dining table. The first is to build one onto the end of a peninsula arm – or buy one
‘BE GUIDED BY THE SIZE OF YOUR ROOM AND THE LIGHT LEVELS WHEN DECIDING ON THE LOOK, STYLE AND COLOUR OF YOUR KITCHEN’ STEPHANIE DURRANT, deputy editor
that is the same width as the worktop. The other is to replace that arm with a table. The first option is the most practical, because you’re not losing any valuable worktop space. It will also make life a bit easier for entertaining or watching over the kids doing their homework, as everything will be directly to hand.
How do I design the space around a window?
A wide window is a central anchor point for a U-shaped kitchen. Try to position the sink underneath the window so as not to block the light, and to give yourself a view while tackling the washing up.
Although your window will bring in natural light, this will change throughout the day and the seasons. So ensure you include plenty of artificial lighting, too, to prevent your eyes from straining.