Choosing the right kitchen layout is one of the most important decisions in your kitchen remodel. The layout affects everything from workflow efficiency to renovation costs, storage capacity, and resale value. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore 6 popular kitchen layouts with detailed cost breakdowns, pros and cons, and expert recommendations for each space type.
Why Kitchen Layout Matters
Your kitchen layout determines:
- Work Triangle Efficiency: The relationship between your sink, stove, and refrigerator
- Renovation Costs: More complex layouts require more cabinets, countertops, and labor
- Storage Capacity: Different layouts offer varying amounts of cabinet and counter space
- Traffic Flow: How people move through your kitchen during cooking and entertaining
- Resale Value: Certain layouts are more desirable to future buyers
1. One-Wall Kitchen Layout
Typical Size: 70-100 sq ft
What Is It?
A one-wall kitchen features all appliances, cabinets, and countertops along a single wall. This ultra-efficient layout maximizes open space in the rest of the room, making it popular for studio apartments, lofts, and small homes.
Pros
- Most Affordable: Least amount of cabinetry and countertop needed
- Space-Efficient: Perfect for small spaces or open floor plans
- Easy Installation: Simplest layout with minimal plumbing/electrical work
- Budget-Friendly: Lower material and labor costs
- Modern Aesthetic: Clean, minimalist look popular in contemporary designs
Cons
- Limited Counter Space: Less workspace for meal prep
- Minimal Storage: Fewer cabinets than multi-wall layouts
- No Work Triangle: Appliances arranged in a line rather than triangle
- Limited Resale Appeal: May not appeal to serious home cooks
- Requires Organization: Must maximize vertical storage
Best For
- Studio apartments and efficiency units
- Small condos (under 600 sq ft)
- Open-concept spaces where kitchen blends with living area
- Secondary kitchens in basements or in-law suites
- Modern minimalist designs
Cost Breakdown (2025 Prices USD/CAD)
Budget Range: $8,000 - $15,000
| Item | Budget | Mid-Range | Premium |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cabinets (8-10 linear ft) | $2,000-$3,500 | $3,500-$6,000 | $6,000-$10,000 |
| Countertops (8-10 ft) | $800-$1,500 | $1,500-$2,500 | $2,500-$4,000 |
| Appliances (3-4) | $1,500-$2,500 | $2,500-$4,500 | $4,500-$8,000 |
| Sink & Faucet | $300-$500 | $500-$1,000 | $1,000-$2,000 |
| Flooring (70-100 sq ft) | $500-$800 | $800-$1,500 | $1,500-$2,500 |
| Installation Labor | $2,000-$4,000 | $4,000-$6,000 | $6,000-$10,000 |
Total: $8,000-$15,000 (Budget) | $15,000-$25,000 (Mid-Range) | $25,000-$40,000 (Premium)
2. Galley Kitchen Layout
Typical Size: 100-150 sq ft
What Is It?
A galley kitchen features two parallel walls of cabinets and appliances with a walkway between them. Named after ship kitchens, this layout maximizes efficiency in narrow spaces while providing ample counter space on both sides.
Pros
- Efficient Work Triangle: Easy movement between appliances
- Maximum Storage: Cabinets on two walls doubles storage capacity
- Great for Narrow Spaces: Ideal for 8-12 ft wide rooms
- Cost-Effective: Moderate material costs, efficient use of space
- Easy Workflow: Everything within a few steps
Cons
- Limited Opening: Can feel closed off from other rooms
- Traffic Issues: People walking through disrupts cooking
- No Dining Space: Typically no room for table or island
- Can Feel Cramped: Especially with 2+ cooks
- Less Social: Cook faces wall rather than guests
Best For
- Narrow homes and townhouses
- Galley-style apartments
- Older homes with defined room layouts
- Serious cooks who prioritize efficiency
- Small to medium families
Cost Breakdown (2025 Prices USD/CAD)
Budget Range: $12,000 - $22,000
| Item | Budget | Mid-Range | Premium |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cabinets (16-20 linear ft) | $4,000-$7,000 | $7,000-$12,000 | $12,000-$20,000 |
| Countertops (16-20 ft) | $1,600-$3,000 | $3,000-$5,000 | $5,000-$8,000 |
| Appliances (4-5) | $2,000-$3,500 | $3,500-$6,000 | $6,000-$12,000 |
| Sink & Faucet | $400-$700 | $700-$1,500 | $1,500-$3,000 |
| Flooring (100-150 sq ft) | $700-$1,200 | $1,200-$2,200 | $2,200-$3,800 |
| Installation Labor | $3,000-$6,000 | $6,000-$10,000 | $10,000-$16,000 |
Total: $12,000-$22,000 (Budget) | $22,000-$38,000** (Mid-Range) | $38,000-$65,000 (Premium)
3. L-Shaped Kitchen Layout
Typical Size: 100-200 sq ft
Most Common Layout - Preferred by 40% of homeowners
What Is It?
An L-shaped kitchen features cabinets and appliances along two perpendicular walls, forming an "L" shape. This is the most popular kitchen layout in North America, offering an ideal balance of efficiency, storage, and open space.
Pros
- Perfect Work Triangle: Natural placement for sink, stove, and fridge
- Open to Dining: One side remains open for table or living space
- Versatile: Works in small to large kitchens
- Island Option: Room to add island in larger spaces
- Great Resale Value: Most buyers prefer this layout
- Efficient Storage: Corner solutions maximize cabinet space
Cons
- Corner Cabinet Challenge: Corner space can be hard to access
- May Need Solutions: Lazy Susans or pull-out shelves required
- Medium Cost: More materials than one-wall or galley
- Traffic Through Work Zone: If two entries, people walk through workspace
Best For
- Most homes - highly versatile
- Open-concept designs connecting to living/dining
- Families who need cooking and gathering space
- Homes with 10x10 to 12x15 ft kitchens
- Resale consideration - broad buyer appeal
Cost Breakdown (2025 Prices USD/CAD)
Budget Range: $15,000 - $30,000
| Item | Budget | Mid-Range | Premium |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cabinets (18-24 linear ft) | $5,000-$9,000 | $9,000-$16,000 | $16,000-$28,000 |
| Countertops (18-24 ft) | $2,000-$3,600 | $3,600-$6,000 | $6,000-$10,000 |
| Corner Solutions | $300-$600 | $600-$1,200 | $1,200-$2,500 |
| Appliances (4-6) | $2,500-$4,500 | $4,500-$8,000 | $8,000-$15,000 |
| Sink & Faucet | $500-$900 | $900-$1,800 | $1,800-$3,500 |
| Flooring (100-200 sq ft) | $800-$1,600 | $1,600-$3,200 | $3,200-$6,000 |
| Installation Labor | $4,000-$8,000 | $8,000-$14,000 | $14,000-$22,000 |
Total: $15,000-$30,000 (Budget) | $30,000-$52,000 (Mid-Range) | $52,000-$90,000 (Premium)
4. U-Shaped Kitchen Layout
Typical Size: 150-250 sq ft
What Is It?
A U-shaped kitchen features cabinetry on three walls, creating a horseshoe or "U" configuration. This layout provides maximum counter space and storage while keeping the cook within easy reach of everything.
Pros
- Maximum Storage: Three walls of cabinets provide extensive storage
- Abundant Counter Space: More prep area than any other layout
- Efficient Work Triangle: Appliances positioned around perimeter
- Contained Workspace: No through-traffic disturbing cooking
- Multiple Cooks: Room for 2-3 people to work simultaneously
- High-End Appeal: Premium layout that impresses buyers
Cons
- Requires Larger Space: Needs at least 150 sq ft minimum
- Higher Cost: Most expensive due to amount of materials
- Two Corner Cabinets: Double the corner storage challenges
- Can Feel Closed: May feel enclosed if too narrow
- Less Social: Cook faces walls, back to guests
Best For
- Large families and serious cooks
- Dedicated kitchen rooms (not open-concept)
- Homes with 12x12 ft or larger kitchens
- People who prioritize storage and counter space
- Multi-cook households
Cost Breakdown (2025 Prices USD/CAD)
Budget Range: $22,000 - $40,000
| Item | Budget | Mid-Range | Premium |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cabinets (24-30 linear ft) | $7,000-$12,000 | $12,000-$22,000 | $22,000-$40,000 |
| Countertops (24-30 ft) | $3,000-$5,000 | $5,000-$9,000 | $9,000-$15,000 |
| Corner Solutions (×2) | $600-$1,200 | $1,200-$2,400 | $2,400-$5,000 |
| Appliances (5-7) | $3,500-$6,000 | $6,000-$12,000 | $12,000-$22,000 |
| Sink & Faucet | $600-$1,200 | $1,200-$2,500 | $2,500-$5,000 |
| Flooring (150-250 sq ft) | $1,200-$2,000 | $2,000-$4,000 | $4,000-$7,500 |
| Installation Labor | $6,000-$12,000 | $12,000-$20,000 | $20,000-$35,000 |
Total: $22,000-$40,000 (Budget) | $40,000-$72,000 (Mid-Range) | $72,000-$130,000 (Premium)
5. G-Shaped Kitchen Layout
Typical Size: 180-280 sq ft
What Is It?
A G-shaped kitchen is a U-shaped kitchen with an added fourth wall or peninsula, creating a partial enclosure. The peninsula typically provides additional seating, creating a breakfast bar or casual dining area.
Pros
- Ultimate Storage: More cabinets than any other layout
- Built-In Dining: Peninsula provides breakfast bar seating
- Separation from Living Area: Defines kitchen boundary in open plans
- Maximum Counter Space: Extensive prep and serving areas
- Luxurious Feel: High-end layout for premium homes
- Multiple Work Zones: Room for baking, prep, and cooking stations
Cons
- Highest Cost: Most expensive layout due to materials and complexity
- Requires Large Space: Needs 180+ sq ft minimum
- Can Feel Enclosed: May feel too closed off if not designed carefully
- Complex Installation: More labor and coordination required
- Traffic Flow: Must plan entry/exit carefully
Best For
- Large luxury homes (2,500+ sq ft)
- Gourmet cooks and entertainers
- Open-concept homes needing kitchen definition
- Families who eat in kitchen (breakfast bar seating)
- High-end renovations and new construction
Cost Breakdown (2025 Prices USD/CAD)
Budget Range: $28,000 - $50,000
| Item | Budget | Mid-Range | Premium |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cabinets (28-36 linear ft) | $9,000-$15,000 | $15,000-$28,000 | $28,000-$50,000 |
| Countertops (28-36 ft) | $3,500-$6,000 | $6,000-$11,000 | $11,000-$18,000 |
| Peninsula/Bar | $1,500-$3,000 | $3,000-$6,000 | $6,000-$12,000 |
| Corner Solutions (×2) | $600-$1,200 | $1,200-$2,400 | $2,400-$5,000 |
| Appliances (6-8) | $4,500-$8,000 | $8,000-$15,000 | $15,000-$30,000 |
| Sink & Faucet | $800-$1,500 | $1,500-$3,000 | $3,000-$6,000 |
| Flooring (180-280 sq ft) | $1,500-$2,500 | $2,500-$5,000 | $5,000-$9,000 |
| Installation Labor | $7,000-$14,000 | $14,000-$25,000 | $25,000-$45,000 |
Total: $28,000-$50,000 (Budget) | $50,000-$95,000 (Mid-Range) | $95,000-$175,000 (Premium)
6. Peninsula Kitchen Layout
Typical Size: 150-250 sq ft
What Is It?
A peninsula kitchen is an L-shaped layout with an added countertop extension (peninsula) that juts out from one wall or cabinet run. Unlike an island, a peninsula is connected to the main cabinetry, creating a semi-open layout with bar seating.
Pros
- More Affordable Than Island: No need for separate island construction
- Built-In Seating: Peninsula provides 2-4 bar stools
- Extra Counter Space: Additional prep and serving area
- Defines Space: Separates kitchen from adjacent rooms
- Extra Storage: Cabinets below peninsula
- Electrical Access: Easier to run utilities than island
Cons
- Less Flexible Than Island: Fixed position, can't be moved
- Blocks One Side: Creates barrier between kitchen and adjacent room
- May Interrupt Traffic: Can obstruct natural flow if poorly placed
- Less Seating Than Island: Typically one side only for stools
Best For
- Open-concept homes needing some separation
- Families who eat casual meals at counter
- Smaller spaces where island won't fit (under 200 sq ft)
- Budget-conscious renovations (less expensive than island)
- Homes with awkward layouts where island blocks flow
Cost Breakdown (2025 Prices USD/CAD)
Budget Range: $18,000 - $35,000
| Item | Budget | Mid-Range | Premium |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cabinets (20-26 linear ft) | $6,000-$10,000 | $10,000-$18,000 | $18,000-$32,000 |
| Countertops (20-26 ft) | $2,500-$4,500 | $4,500-$8,000 | $8,000-$13,000 |
| Peninsula Extension | $1,200-$2,500 | $2,500-$5,000 | $5,000-$10,000 |
| Corner Solutions | $300-$600 | $600-$1,200 | $1,200-$2,500 |
| Appliances (4-6) | $2,500-$5,000 | $5,000-$10,000 | $10,000-$18,000 |
| Sink & Faucet | $500-$1,000 | $1,000-$2,000 | $2,000-$4,000 |
| Bar Stools (2-4) | $200-$500 | $500-$1,200 | $1,200-$3,000 |
| Flooring (150-250 sq ft) | $1,200-$2,000 | $2,000-$4,000 | $4,000-$7,500 |
| Installation Labor | $5,000-$10,000 | $10,000-$18,000 | $18,000-$30,000 |
Total: $18,000-$35,000 (Budget) | $35,000-$68,000 (Mid-Range) | $68,000-$120,000 (Premium)
Layout Comparison Chart
| Layout | Size (sq ft) | Budget Range | Best For | Work Triangle | Storage | Resale Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| One-Wall | 70-100 | $8k-$40k | Studios, small spaces | Poor | Low | Moderate |
| Galley | 100-150 | $12k-$65k | Narrow spaces, efficiency | Excellent | Good | Good |
| L-Shaped | 100-200 | $15k-$90k | Most homes | Excellent | Good | Excellent |
| U-Shaped | 150-250 | $22k-$130k | Large families, storage needs | Excellent | Excellent | Excellent |
| G-Shaped | 180-280 | $28k-$175k | Luxury homes, entertaining | Good | Excellent | Very Good |
| Peninsula | 150-250 | $18k-$120k | Open-concept, casual dining | Good | Good | Very Good |
How to Choose the Right Layout
Consider Your Space
- Small (under 100 sq ft): One-Wall or Galley
- Medium (100-150 sq ft): Galley, L-Shaped, or Peninsula
- Large (150-250 sq ft): L-Shaped, U-Shaped, Peninsula, or G-Shaped
- Extra Large (250+ sq ft): U-Shaped or G-Shaped with island
Consider Your Lifestyle
- Live alone or couple: One-Wall, Galley, or L-Shaped
- Family with kids: L-Shaped, U-Shaped, or Peninsula (seating)
- Love to entertain: G-Shaped or Peninsula (bar seating)
- Serious cook: Galley, U-Shaped, or G-Shaped (maximum efficiency/storage)
- Open-concept preference: L-Shaped, Peninsula, or G-Shaped
Consider Your Budget
- Budget ($8k-$25k): One-Wall or Galley
- Mid-Range ($25k-$60k): L-Shaped or Peninsula
- Premium ($60k-$130k): U-Shaped or G-Shaped
- Luxury ($130k+): G-Shaped with high-end finishes
Cost-Saving Tips for Any Layout
- Keep Plumbing in Place: Moving sink/dishwasher adds $1,500-$3,500
- Choose Stock Cabinets: Save 40-50% vs. custom
- Laminate Countertops: $25-$50/sq ft vs. $75-$200 for stone
- Paint Instead of Replace: Cabinet painting costs $3,000-$8,000 vs. $8,000-$25,000 replacement
- DIY Where Possible: Demolition, painting, and simple installs
- Keep Existing Layout: Changing layout adds 30-50% to costs
Final Recommendations
Best Overall Value: L-Shaped Kitchen
- Versatile, efficient, strong resale value
- Works in 80% of homes
- Moderate cost with excellent functionality
Best for Small Spaces: Galley Kitchen
- Maximum efficiency in narrow spaces
- Great work triangle
- Affordable with good storage
Best for Large Families: U-Shaped Kitchen
- Maximum storage and counter space
- Room for multiple cooks
- Excellent for serious cooking
Best for Entertaining: G-Shaped or Peninsula Kitchen
- Built-in seating for guests
- Defines space while remaining open
- Premium feel with functionality
Ready to Plan Your Kitchen Remodel?
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