There are four main kitchen layouts: “Galley,” “L,” “U,” and “G” (Peninsula). Each accommodates a work triangle in its own way.
Dishwashers should be placed next to the kitchen sink – either on the right or left-hand side – as well as being close to storage units. It is also important to ensure that your dishwasher placement allows freedom of movement.
According to the kitchen triangle rule, each side of the triangle should measure no less than four feet and no more than nine feet and, ideally, the perimeter of the triangle should be no less than 13 feet and no more than 26 feet. In other words, not too small and not too large.
All the objects inside the kitchen represent fire, so gas stoves, cylinders, microwave ovens, toasters, among other appliances should be placed in the south-east part of the kitchen. Also, these items should be placed in a manner which will compel a person to face the east while cooking.
Some people ask the question, “should I lay the floor or install the kitchen units first then lay the floor around them?” This decision is purely down to personal preference. Laying the floor first would appear to be the best option but you are much more likely to damage the floor whilst the kitchen is being assembled.
Tile first would be a proper job. Although not on show it is best to seal entire floor as it will allow easier cleaning and help prevent dust. Also if there are ever water leaks it will help protect subfloor.
The U-Shape
Arguably the most versatile layout for any size of kitchen, a U-shaped floor plan surrounds the user on three sides, so it allows for longer countertops and extra storage cabinetry. “If you have enough space, I love a U-shaped kitchen with an island in the center,” says interior designer Tina Rich.
A kitchen sink does not need to be centered under a window. It can be located off the side, on a kitchen island, or under a cabinet if that's what you prefer. Each layout is unique and that has to be accounted for when choosing the right spot for a sink.
Kitchen sinks are typically placed under windows because the window can help filter the bad smell from the sink. Also, kitchen sink plumbing will have a short drain pipe filtered to the outside.
The galley kitchen is the most efficient layout for a narrow space. It consists of work spaces on two opposing walls with a single traffic lane between. Placing the range or cooktop on one side of the kitchen and the refrigerator and sink on the opposite wall allows for easy workflow.
A kitchen sink is always under a window, so you don't need to worry about using a cabinet space for a sink, and it's easier to access the plumbing. Windows also lets in natural sunlight, which allows hand-washed dishes to dry quickly and allows you to enjoy a scenic view while working.
The primary purpose of double-bowl sinks was to make dishwashing easier: one bowl for soapy water, the other bowl with clean water for rinsing. Nowadays, the double-bowl sink is rarely used for dishwashing. However, this type of kitchen sink does more than make dishwashing easier.
Dishwashers need to have at least 2 feet of space between them and the wall. This is due to how hot the machine can get while it is running and the moisture it emits. Having a dishwasher too close to the wall will quickly result in mold and mildew building up on the sheetrock or paneling.
Aim for a location that's convenient to the countertop, stove top and fridge. It's really common to pop something straight from the fridge into the microwave, so you want the two to be close together – while ensuring there's bench space nearby.
If you're in love with a specific color, choose your granite countertops first, and then select your coordinating kitchen cabinets. Keep in mind that the same color selection process applies as in scenario #1.
Installing flooring before your cabinets is the best choice for most hardwood floors. When professionals install floors then cabinets, it's easier to get everything to standard heights. It's also a safer installation process for your cabinets since you won't risk any damage to them as professionals install the floors.