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

Galley kitchen

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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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Galley kitchen

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

Design: Distinct Identity

Galley kitchen

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

Design: J+A Design

Galley kitchen

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

Design: Eightytwo

See also: Spruce up your living room! 5 homes with beautiful spaces for entertaining

Galley kitchen

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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

Island kitchen

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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.

Island kitchen

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Polished surfaces and marble exude an understated sophisticated feel. 

Design: Collective Designs

Island kitchen

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

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Island kitchen

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

Design: Versaform

Island kitchen

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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. 

L-shape kitchen

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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.

L-shape kitchen

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

Design: Grafunkt

L-shape kitchen

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

Design: The Scientist

L-shape kitchen

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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

U-shape kitchen

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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.

U-shape kitchen

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

Design: Homme Space

U-shape kitchen

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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.