L-shapes to islands: 14 ultra-chic ways to renovate and plan your kitchen layout

This layout facilitates movement, allowing for an efficient workflow with minimal steps, as everything is kept within a central passage between two rows of counters.

Best for: Narrow or rectangular spaces.

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Concrete walls and wood laminates interspersed with black gives an industrial yet polished vibe. 

Design: Distinct Identity

Introducing an open concept to your galley kitchen makes it look more airy and spacious.

Design: J+A Design

A patterned backsplash enlivens a simple wood and white colour palette. For a cosier ambience, consider adding cove lights.

Design: Eightytwo

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It might be small but don’t let that stop you from creating a space that’s big on personality!

Design: The Scientist

This layout gives you more flexibility, as the island counter can not only be used for preparation or cooking, but also a place to serve food and drinks or even to dine on. It can be designed as a focal point of the kitchen.

Best for: Entertaining and open-plan living areas.

Polished surfaces and marble exude an understated sophisticated feel. 

Design: Collective Designs

Splashes of blue give an otherwise neutral colour scheme a playful, modern and welcoming vibe.

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Add visual interest and impact to a monochrome design with varying textures and patterns.

Design: Versaform

If your layout allows for it, make the most of your island counter – this doubles as both a dining area and one for prepping your food. 

This layout allows other people to go through the kitchen, without disruption to the work zones and interfering with your workflow.

Best for: Kitchens that are also thoroughfares between rooms.

Love cosy English country-style concepts? Take inspiration from this quaint kitchen. 

Design: Grafunkt

An eclectic mix of styles and textures serve up a dose of personal style.

Design: The Scientist

If you’re after a charming retro appeal, this space featuring walls with light blue tiles, wooden cabinets with rounded knobs and a patterned floor evokes just that. 

Design: The Scientist

This layout makes use of three sides, providing plenty of countertop space. And if you have a roomier “U”, you can even integrate a small central kitchen island.

Best for: Large spaces.

Make a small space feel less cramped and more cosy with a few strategically placed framed pictures, artwork or sculptures. 

Design: Homme Space

This countertop offers a sense of airiness since it offers a view into the cooking station and vice versa, while keeping the kitchen separate from your living area.