The L-shaped kitchen design is one of the most popular and practical layouts for kitchens. This versatile design provides ample countertop space and storage while allowing for efficient workflow. An L-shaped kitchen optimizes the functionality of the space by utilizing the length and corners of the room.
With some creative planning and smart storage solutions, you can create an L-shaped kitchen that is both aesthetically appealing and highly functional. Read on for ideas and tips on maximizing the potential of an L-shaped layout.
Benefits of an L-Shaped Kitchen
There are several advantages that make the L-shaped kitchen a go-to choice for many homeowners:
Efficient Workflow
The L-shape provides two adjacent workstations along perpendicular walls. This creates an efficient triangular workflow zone between the sink, stove, and refrigerator. The layout reduces unnecessary steps between tasks.
Ample Counter Space
With counters lining two walls, you get abundant prep and serving space. The extra surface area makes it easy to carry out multiple cooking tasks at once.
Ergonomic Design
The multiple work zones reduce congestion and allow for more than one cook working comfortably. Appliances and counters are easily accessible from more than one side.
Open Floor Plan
The L-shape opens up one side of the kitchen to adjoining spaces. This creates a spacious, airy feel and allows natural light into the room.
Versatile Storage
The extensive counters mean you can incorporate plenty of base cabinets and drawers for storing cookware, small appliances, and pantry items within easy reach.
Maximizing an L-Shaped Kitchen Layout
When designing an L-shaped kitchen, focus on maximizing the abundant space available along two adjoining walls. Here are some tips for optimizing the layout:
Optimal L-Shape
The ideal L-shape has counters of equal length on both sides. Avoid a narrow, tight configuration and aim for wider, more spacious legs. Consider traffic flow and make sure the shape allows multiple cooks to work without bumping into each other.
Zone Areas
Divide the kitchen into work zones – prep, cook, clean-up, and storage. Position appliances and counters conveniently within each area for an efficient workflow. The prep zone with the sink could be next to the fridge while the cook zone with stove and ovens is on the other side.
Include an Island
Adding an island is an excellent way to extend your workspace and storage. A freestanding island can house small appliances, provide casual dining space, and enable interaction with the rest of the home.
Use Peninsulas
Peninsulas function like smaller islands that maximize floor space. Installing a peninsula along the inside curve of the L is great for extra seating and setting up a buffet.
Walk-In Pantry
Make use of the length of one section of the L for a spacious walk-in pantry. Outfit it with shelves, cabinets, and pull-out racks to hold dry goods and small appliances.
Angled Design
Give your L-shaped kitchen a modern update with counters arranged at a 45-degree or 90-degree angle. The angled junction between the two legs creates an interesting focal point.
Multi-Level Counters
Incorporate countertops at varying heights for defined prepping and serving stations. A raised bar area is great for quick breakfasts. Use a lower level surface for kneading dough or rolling out pastry.
L-Shaped Kitchen Island Ideas
The island is a natural complement to an L-shaped kitchen. It adds functionality and can be styled according to your needs. Consider these smart island ideas:
Freestanding Island
A spacious island placed parallel to the counters gives you extra surface area. Include storage, lighting, and electrical outlets to customize it as a mini-workspace.
Prep Island
Maximize island real estate by outfitting it solely for food prep. Install features like side towels, knife blocks, and chopping boards.
Dining Island
Pull up some stools on one side of the island to create an informal dining space. The seating faces the rest of the kitchen for easy interaction.
Storage Island
Maximize storage with a base of cabinets and drawers. Construct open shelving above to hold cookbooks, wares, and small plants.
Sink Island
Installing the main sink in an island is convenient for clean-up after cooking. Make sure to allow space on either side for a towel rack and drying racks.
Range Island
For serious cooks, putting the stovetop on the island provides a spacious surface for culinary creativity. Ventilation is key – opt for a commercial-style overhead hood.
Multi-Level Island
Make smart use of vertical space with an island that combines a raised eating bar, mid-level prep zone, and lower storage base.
Storage Solutions for an L-Shaped Kitchen
Storage is essential to keep an L-shaped kitchen organized amidst abundant counterspace. Use these ideas to stash cooking equipment, serveware, pantry items, and more:
Base Cabinets
Maximize the bottom cabinets by including storage innovations like pull-out shelves, lazy susans, and tip-out trays. Optimize corner spaces with diagonal corner cabinets.
Drawers
Swap out some lower cabinets for convenient roll-out drawers to hold utensils, linens, and other kitchen essentials. Consider drawers with built-in dividers and inserts.
Upper Cabinets
Install upper cabinets all along available wall space, right up to the ceiling. Maximize vertical storage with extra-deep cabinets and stacking second rows above lower ones.
Open Shelving
Add visual interest by integrating some open shelving units. These are great for displaying pretty tableware, cookbooks, and arresting the eyes upward.
Pull-Out Pantry
Build pull-out pantries into cabinetry for storing dry goods, canned items, and small appliances out of sight. Opt for rollout trays, drawers, and pull-down spice racks.
Blind Corner Solutions
Make use of challenging blind corner spots with specialized storage like lazy susans or vertical rollouts that pull out of the corner.
Microwave Cabinet
Dedicate a full-height cabinet column for the microwave with specialized built-ins. Include pull-out shelves at varying heights to hold cookware.
Recycling Center
Incorporate a dedicated recycling station into the cabinetry complete with multiple sorting bins and pull-out recycling trays.
L-Shaped Kitchen Backsplash Ideas
The ample backsplashes lining two walls provide prime real estate for making a stylish statement in an L-shaped kitchen. Consider these backsplash ideas:
Graphic Tile Patterns
Make a modern visual impact with an on-trend graphic tile backsplash. Play with bold geometric shapes or opt for shifting linear patterns.
Oversized Tiles
Maximize the expanse of backsplash with large-format tiles like slabs of marble, wide planks, or elongated subway tiles. This makes the space appear more expansive.
Mix Tile Materials
Create interest by combining different tile materials like natural stone, glass, porcelain, and metal within the same backsplash. Coordinate tones for a cohesive look.
Contrasting Tile Colors
Use the backsplash as an accent element by choosing tile colors that pop dramatically against cabinetry and counters. Bright red or navy make bold statements.
Decorative Tiles
Incorporate decorative tiles like handpainted motifs, Moroccan shapes, or vintage-inspired designs. Limit to a single focal area or scatter throughout the backsplash.
Display Shelving
Break up the backsplash by incorporating floating glass or reclaimed wood shelves. These provide perfect platforms for displaying cherished tableware.
Lighted Backsplash
Install a backsplash that incorporates concealed lighting or opt for glass tiles with interior illumination. This amplifies the sleek, modernist ambience.
Flooring Options for L-Shaped Kitchens
Choosing the right flooring lays the foundation for both the look and functionality of the space. Consider these flooring ideas for an L-shaped kitchen:
Wood Flooring
Hardwood planks add natural warmth and work with both traditional and contemporary designs. Opt for more budget-friendly engineered wood floors with added durability.
Stone Tile
Natural stone like marble, travertine, or slate brings elegance and withstands heavy use. Textured finishes help limit the slippery factor.
Concrete Flooring
For an edgy, industrial look, polished concrete floors work beautifully. The cool grey color pairs well with stainless steel accents.
Vinyl Flooring
Affordable, water-resistant vinyl is a practical option for kitchens. Select high-quality vinyl planks that emulate wood or stone for a realistic appearance.
Cork Flooring
Sustainable cork is naturally antimicrobial and cushy underfoot. The acoustic benefits also absorb ambient kitchen sounds.
Patterned Tile
Make a unique style statement with patterned floor tile featuring bold shapes, global motifs, or intricate mosaics.
Two-Toned Floors
Define separate zones like an eat-in area with a secondary flooring material. For example, pair wood with stone or patterned tiles.
Best Paint Colors for an L-Shaped Kitchen
Paint is an easy and affordable way to refresh the look of an L-shaped kitchen. Consider these pleasing paint colors:
Neutral Tones
Calming whites, warm taupes, or soothing greys make excellent backdrop colors for an L-shaped kitchen. They allow cabinetry, counters, and accents to take center stage.
Azure Blue
This breezy, relaxed blue hue pairs perfectly with both white and wood cabinetry. It has both classic and contemporary appeal.
Sage Green
Earthy, herbaceous sage green has a natural, peaceful quality. Use it to create a relaxing ambience, especially when paired with wood elements.
Sunny Yellow
Cheerful, vibrant yellow infuses the space with energy. For balance, use it only on select walls or pair it with contrasting navy blue accents.
Dusky Mauve
Unique dusky mauve is an intriguing alternative to gray. It serves as a soothing, mellow neutral that flatters both warm and cool materials.
Brick Red
For drama, paint a single focal wall in a bold brick red. The rich shade pairs well with both traditional and modern kitchen elements.
Lighting Ideas for an L-Shaped Kitchen
Proper lighting is essential for illuminating task areas and creating ambience. Lighting ideas include:
Pendant Lights
Hang rows of pendant lights over the sink, island, and other prep zones to spotlight tasks. Go for sleek minimal or arty statements.
Under Cabinet Lights
Streamline under cabinet lighting illuminates countertops and backsplashes without glare. Opt for energy-efficient LED strip lighting.
Track Lighting
Versatile track lighting installed on the ceiling above allows you to focus light where needed. Use it to play up architectural details.
Recessed Ceiling Lights
Recessed cans provide ambient overhead illumination and are easily incorporated into both ceilings and soffits.
Decorative Hood Lighting
Make a focal point of your range hood by installing decorative built-in lighting. Opt for dramatic linear LEDs or vintage-style Edison bulbs.
Natural Light
Maximize natural light through generous windows, skylights, and glass cabinetry. Consider brighter paint colors to reflect light.
L-Shaped Kitchen Cabinet Ideas
Cabinetry plays a major role in the look, functionality and storage capacity of an L-shaped kitchen. Smart cabinet ideas include:
Mixed Cabinet Colors
Create visual interest by combining two complementary cabinet colors like bright white uppers with navy blue base cabinets.
Glass Front Cabinets
Glass-front upper cabinets maintain an airy vibe while securely displaying collectibles and tableware. Introduce with just a few choice cabinets.
Open Shelving
Incorporate some wall-mounted open shelving for extra display space. These complement solid cabinetry while adding architectural intrigue.
Two-Tone Cabinets
Achieve a timeless modern or vintage look with uppers and base cabinets in different tones. Popular combinations include white and wood or glossy and matte finishes.
Unfitted Cabinets
For a relaxed cottage feel, opt for unmatched upper cabinets with varied shapes and sizes. Have fun mixing open shelves, glass fronts, and solid doors.
Hidden Hardware
Streamline the look with cabinets featuring discreet hardware and hidden hinge mechanisms for a sleek, concealed effect.
Panelled Cabinets
The rich detail of inset cabinet doors with decorative inset panels brings traditional warmth to the space. Opt for raised or recessed panels.
Metallic Accents
Incorporate touches of glam with bronze, silver, or gold hardware, handles, and accents on neutral cabinetry. This amps up the contemporary edge.
Choosing Countertops for an L-Shaped Kitchen
With ample countertop real estate, selecting the right material is key both aesthetically and functionally. Top countertop options include:
Quartz
Durable, low-maintenance quartz resists stains, scratches, and heat. The range of patterns mimics stone and concrete looks.
Granite
Elegant granite is a classic choice that withstands heavy daily use. Opt for lower-maintenance matte or honed finishes to hide scratches.
Marble
Gorgeous marble makes a graceful design statement but requires more maintenance. Limit use to island and dining areas rather than main prep zones.
Soapstone
Understated soapstone develops a silvery patina with age that creates rustic charm. It is naturally antimicrobial and heat resistant.
Laminate
Budget-friendly laminate comes in every imaginable color and pattern. New matte finishes mimic stone and wood while standing up to scuffs.
Butcher Block
Warm, eco-friendly butcher block wears beautifully over time. Use for limited areas like islands, bars, or accent strips on other surfaces. Apply waterproof finish.
Concrete
Unique, bespoke concrete counters offer the raw industrial look. New techniques create more refined, smoother finishes in polished or matte versions.
Best Appliances for an L-Shaped Kitchen
Take advantage of the abundant space to integrate appliances seamlessly into your L-shaped kitchen workflow. Top picks include:
French Door Refrigerator
This style maximizes fridge storage with double doors up top and a full-width freezer drawer below. Opt for counter-depth to blend in seamlessly.
Slide-In Range
This range sits flush with surrounding counters, offering a built-in look. Choose a stove top and oven combination customized for your cooking needs.
Wall Ovens
Stacked double ovens maximize cooking options with two separate cavities. Place at eye level for ergonomic access.
Microwave Drawer
This unique built-in microwave tucks away under the countertop while still being fully accessible. Great for congested kitchens!
Induction Cooktop
This high-tech option heats pans instantly with electromagnetic energy. It offers ultra-responsive, nearly spill-proof performance.
Dishwasher Drawer
Compact dishwasher drawers fit into narrow spaces and can be used independently for small loads. Select drawer style or side-by-side.
Beverage Fridge
A standalone beverage refrigerator under the counter or in the island keeps drinks chilled and frees up space in the main fridge.
Clever Storage Hacks for an L-Shaped Kitchen
Take your organizational game to the next level with these savvy storage hacks:
- Mount frequently used skillets and pans on a vertical rack attached inside a cabinet door for easy access.
- Adhere knife strips inside drawers to keep sharp utensils secure and organized.
- Transfer bulk foods like flour and sugar to clear canisters. Use chalkboard labels to identify contents.
- Corral plastic containers in slide-out trays and baskets that pull out from base cabinets.
- Use shower caddies mounted inside cabinets to neatly organize cooking oils, spices, condiments, etc.
- Install under-cabinet racks for cookbooks, enabling quick reference while cooking.
- Attach magnetic strips under cabinets to hold knives within easy reach of prep zones.
- Mount shallow wall-hung metal rails fitted with S-hooks for hanging coffee mugs.
- Keep lids organized so they are easy to find with mounted lid racks or hooks inside cabinets.
- Store cutting boards on end in vertical slots built into drawers or cabinetry.
L-Shaped Kitchen Ideas by Type
Tailor your L-shaped kitchen design to match your chosen decor style. Get inspired by these ideas:
Modern L-Shaped Kitchen
Create a sleek modern look with a minimalist vibe using streamlined cabinets, stainless steel accents, concrete or quartz counters, and sparse decorative touches.
Rustic L-Shaped Kitchen
Embrace natural elements like exposed wood beams, stone surfaces, and visible piping. Include vintage-style accents like apron-front sinks, distressed cabinetry, and checkered floors.
Traditional L-Shaped Kitchen
Opt for classic elegance with inset cabinetry, marble counters, subway tile, and vintage accents. Brass hardware and fixtures lend a polished, timeless look.
Farmhouse L-Shaped Kitchen
Capture farmhouse coziness with painted shaker cabinets, butcher block islands, porcelain sinks, and pretty wallpapered backsplashes. Include some open shelving.
Contemporary L-Shaped Kitchen
Achieve a sleek but inviting contemporary look using a blend of modern and traditional elements in fresh color palettes and minimalist styling.
Industrial L-Shaped Kitchen
Expose pipes and ductwork while incorporating recycled wood, blackened steel,