Kitchen 101: The L-Shaped Kitchen

THE L-SHAPED KITCHEN has all appliances and counter-tops laid out in the shape of the letter L. This layout requires more space than the One Wall and the Galley but the design is really great, in that it allows for more than one person to work in the kitchen at the same time. There is TONS of counter space and the work triangle is easily executed – no disruptions because of foot traffic.

Like the One Wall this is popular in Trinidad. In fact it is the third most popular kitchen layout that I have seen in my exploits over the last four years. 

Kitchens 101: The Galley

THE GALLEY also known as the Corridor is the second simplest kitchen layout available and like the One Wall, is often used when space is limited.  It consists of two parallel work spaces – with a counter and sink on one side and the appliances on the other – with an aisle 

running between them (or some similar arrangement). This layout is named after the style of kitchens found aboard ships, trains and aircrafts.

In this layout counter space is very limited and you can usually have only one cook in the kitchen at a time. On another note, strange but true, although I have seen a host of One Wall designs in Trinidad – the Galley is not as popular, even in smaller spaces. Most builders simply opt for the One Wall. Maybe because as Trini we do not encourage a FLOW of traffic through our kitchens – we get in and we get out. Do any of you have galley kitchens? Please feel to send me your pics!

Kitchens 101: Layout

This week we are going to talk about my favourite spot in the home - The Kitchen!

Specifically we are going to chat about Kitchen Layouts and the Work Triangle.

Simply defined - the KITCHEN LAYOUT is the shape that is made by the arrangement of the countertop, major appliances and storage areas. This floor plan creates the kitchen's WORK TRIANGLE, i.e. the path that you make when moving from the refrigerator, to the sink, to the stove to prepare a meal.

There are several types of kitchen layouts. This week we will feature the top 5 most popular layouts – the One Wall, Galley, L, U, and G. This will help you identify what is your current layout as well as what may be best suited for your space (in case you’re thinking of renovating).

So keep posted!