Make Your Kitchen Work Smarter

The Work Triangle

Creating a work triangle in your kitchen can cut down on excess movement by centering your work space. Why waste time running around the kitchen when you can be playing with your kids or taking some quality time for yourself?

Rules of thumb for the basic work triangle are as follows:

• No one side of the triangle should be greater than nine feet or less than four feet.
• The triangle should not be interrupted by traffic or cabinetry.
• The perimeter of the triangle should measure no more than 26 feet and no less than 12 feet.

Corridor/Galley

Corridor designs are incredibly efficient because you can move around the entire kitchen in just a few steps. Counters and storage are limited, however. And, people walking through can get in the cook’s way.

Peninsula

A peninsula offers an open design that incorporates the kitchen and dining room. Its layout brings the whole family together by creating an extra common space.

L-Shaped

The L-shaped kitchen is one of the most popular. Its work triangle is uninterrupted by traffic and there is ample room for appliances. Also, by lengthening the leg of the “L”, you can create even more storage and counter space.

U-Shaped

U-shaped kitchens surround you on three sides with storage, countertops and appliances. This saves a lot of steps. If the “U” is big enough, you can add an island work station in the middle.