A one wall kitchen design refers to a layout where the kitchen is arranged along a single wall, making it efficient for smaller spaces. This type of kitchen layout maximizes the workspace while keeping the footprint compact. One wall kitchens are a popular choice for studio apartments, tiny homes, RV renovations and other small dwellings where space is limited. With some creative planning and smart storage solutions, a one wall kitchen can be highly functional and include all the necessary appliances and features.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore stylish one wall kitchen ideas that are efficient, space-saving and have a visually appealing aesthetic. Whether you are remodeling a small kitchen or designing one from scratch, this article covers clever layouts, spatial planning tips, optimal work triangles, clever storage solutions and inspiring design ideas to make the most of a single wall kitchen layout. Let’s get started!
Advantages of One Wall Kitchen Layouts
Here are some of the benefits of opting for a one wall kitchen design:
- Efficient use of space – Condensing the kitchen into one wall frees up floor area for other needs.
- Reduced clutter – Limiting the layout prevents too many furnishings which keeps the area decluttered.
- Cost effective – Plumbing and electrical is consolidated making installation cheaper.
- Improved work triangle – Steps between sink, stove and fridge are minimized.
- Easy traffic flow – No awkward hallways or corners that disrupt movement.
- Stylish simplicity – Clean lines and minimalist aesthetic allow for elegant designs.
Optimal One Wall Kitchen Layouts
When designing a one wall kitchen, the layout and placement of appliances is crucial to create an efficient and ergonomic workspace. Here are some of the best practices to follow:
Work Triangle
This refers to the triangular workflow between the main kitchen workstations – the stove, sink and refrigerator. Optimal placement will minimize steps and make cooking more convenient.
- The total distance between the three corners of the triangle should be between 13-26 feet.
- No corner should be less than 4 feet or more than 9 feet apart.
- The sink should be placed closest to the entering doorway for efficient prep work.
Landing Zone
Also called a drop zone, this is a section near the kitchen entryway to place groceries, keys or items when entering the home. This keeps the working area clutter free.
Mixing Zone
The area between the sink and stove is the mixing zone for prepping ingredients. This space should be spacious enough for laying out baking sheets, mixing bowls etc.
Appliance Placement
- Fridge near the entrance for easy access when carrying groceries.
- Sink in the middle with countertops on both sides.
- Stove last with landing area nearby to stage hot dishes.
- Dishwasher closest to the sink for minimal distance between washing and loading.
- Microwave near the stove for heating food.
Storage Solutions
Smart storage is critical for one wall layouts. Consider these space-saving ideas:
- Wall-mounted cabinets provide hidden storage without occupying floor space.
- Pull out shelves allow full access to cabinet interiors.
- Lazy susans create space for corner cabinets.
- Drawers maximize vertical storage for utensils.
- Open shelving adds space for frequently used items.
- A kitchen island on casters can be moved around as a movable prep station.
One Wall Kitchen Ideas for Different Spaces
One wall kitchens can be adapted to work in various room configurations. Here are some stylish and savvy ideas:
One Wall Kitchen in a Studio Apartment
Studio apartments have limited space for a full kitchen. Here are some one wall kitchen ideas to maximize function:
- Place the kitchen layout along the longest wall for most working area.
- Use floor-to-ceiling height cabinets and open shelving for plenty of storage.
- Include space-saving pull down shelving above the countertop.
- Opt for stackable appliances like washer/dryer units.
- Use a kitchen trolley or carts on casters for extra storage.
- Floating open shelves above the counters add space for displaying pretty cookware.
- Backsplash with glass tile adds an upscale look in the compact area.
Galley Style One Wall Kitchen
Galley kitchens with the layout along one side are highly space efficient. Make it functional with these tips:
- Ensure at least 42 inches of clearance between the counter and opposite wall.
- Include a walkway on the other side to prevent traffic jams.
- Allow at least 4 feet distance between prep and cleaning zones.
- Use glass front cabinets to prevent a closed-in feeling.
- Open shelving, pendant lights and backsplash tile make it stylish.
One Wall Kitchen in a Tiny House
Tiny homes need smart kitchen ideas to work in limited area:
- Opt for multifunctional appliances like convection ovens with stovetops.
- Use mix and match stackable fridges and freezers as needed.
- Install fold-down prep tables, pull out cutting boards and hideaway storage.
- Hang utensil racks and pots and pans on walls out of the way.
- Under-counter LED lighting brightens the compact workspace.
- Convertible kitchen carts act as extra counters and can be moved when not in use.
One Wall Kitchen for RV Renovation
RVs have unique space constraints. Some one wall RV kitchen ideas include:
- Use every inch – install storage to ceiling and include second level cabinets.
- Opt for smaller appliances sized for RVs like mini fridges, cooktops and microwaves.
- Multipurpose sink covers convert to prep space.
- Use racks and holders for towels, utensils and spices to save space.
- Attach fold out counters and pull out baskets for extra prep area when needed.
- Built in garbage cans save space and keep trash out of sight.
One Wall Kitchen Design Ideas
When laid out thoughtfully, a one wall kitchen can be highly efficient and look fabulous too. Here are some inspiring ideas for your space:
Modern Minimalist Design
The clean lines of a modern aesthetic are perfect for small kitchens:
- White and neutral colors make the space seem bright and open.
- Sleek cabinets with recessed hardware have a polished contemporary vibe.
- Marble, granite or quartz countertops and backsplash make a stylish statement.
- Open shelving and glass front cabinets prevent a closed in feeling.
- Pendant lights over the central island illuminate the compact workspace.
- Glossy subway tile backsplashes and exposed piping add subtle industrial edge.
Farmhouse Chic Style
The charming farmhouse look also works beautifully:
- Whitewashed cabinetry has a traditional cottage style appeal.
- Butcher block countertops and exposed brick backsplashes add casual warmth.
- Pretty pastel tiles behind the stove make a romantic statement.
- Open shelving lined with copper pots and baskets has rustic flair.
- A vintage-look apron sink and hardware create old-fashioned charm.
- Mason jar pendants, curtains and art prints complete the homey vibe.
Scandinavian Inspired Design
The sleek Scandinavian style is perfect for small spaces:
- Light wood cabinets and open shelving keep things airy and bright.
- Marble herringbone backsplash has minimalist geometric appeal.
- Black accents like stove hoods and cabinet hardware pop against light walls.
- Woven baskets offer storage and texture without clutter.
- Copper or gold accents and accessories add cozy metallic warmth.
- White dishware displayed in open shelving makes decor functional.
Industrial Chic Theme
Urban industrial edge also suits one wall kitchens:
- Concrete or brick look tile backsplashes and floors have an edgy warehouse vibe.
- Stainless steel appliances, shelves and hardware convey sleek modernism.
- Black cabinetry makes a dramatic statement in small areas.
- Clear glass pendants hang low over the central island.
- Open metal shelving adds storage without chopping up space.
- Roller blinds, metal stools and cafe seating complete the look.
Rustic Farmhouse Style
For a cozy and charming layout:
- White shiplap walls have a traditional farmhouse aesthetic.
- Warm wood open shelving adds storage and ties in wood counters.
- Vintage inspired hardware like bin pulls complete the look.
- Checkered cafe curtains and ceramic chicken accents add playful personality.
- Woven baskets under open shelves rather than closed cabinets.
- Pretty accent tiles in a herringbone pattern behind the stove.
One Wall Kitchen Layout Ideas
Within the one wall configuration, there are several possible arrangements for the kitchen fixtures. Here are some examples:
Single Counter Layout
This simple plan has all appliances and sinks along one counter:
- Refrigerator at one end, followed by sink, then stove.
- Upper and lower cabinets provide all storage needs.
- Compact and efficient for truly small kitchens.
Peninsula Layout
The peninsula plan extends the counter into the room:
- Counter sticks out perpendicular to appliances into floorspace.
- Creates an eating bar with seating on opposite side.
- Peninsula may have storage cabinets below and provide more workspace.
Island Layout
This frees up even more floorspace:
- Island counter placed parallel to wall of appliances.
- Stools tucked under island create casual dining space.
- Island maximizes prep area and storage.
- Provides a spacious feel even in tight spaces.
- Allows traffic to move around on both sides.
Galley Layout
This one wall kitchen layout is highly space efficient:
- Arrange the full kitchen along one side of the room.
- Opposite side serves as traffic corridor.
- Eliminates awkward corners or tight spots.
- Provides good continuity for efficient cooking.
Clever Storage Solutions for One Wall Kitchens
Storage is critical in compact kitchens. These clever ideas maximize space:
- Pull out drawers under cooktops rather than wasting space.
- Custom built blind corner cabinets maximize tricky areas.
- Tiered cookware racks double your storage capacity.
- Pull out spice racks keep essentials hidden but easily accessible.
- Wall mounted pot racks free up precious cabinet space.
- Floating shelves for cookbooks and decor show off pretty items.
- recycle slide out trays allow full use of pantry space.
- Narrow floor to ceiling pantry units beside fridge.
- Built in utensil dividers, pan lids organizer inside drawers.
- Use cabinet fronts as pegboards to hang utensils.
FAQs about One Wall Kitchen Layouts
What are some pros of a one wall kitchen design?
Some benefits of the one wall layout are efficient use of space, lower costs, smooth workflow and a streamlined aesthetic. Condensing the kitchen into one wall makes the most of a small footprint while eliminating awkward spaces.
What are some cons of a one wall kitchen layout?
The main limitations are restricted storage, less prep area, and potentially feeling too confined. Limited counter space and cabinet capacity may make it hard to have all needed appliances and cookware.
How wide should a one wall galley kitchen be?
Experts recommend at least 42 inches width for a galley kitchen layout to allow basic movement and appliance openings. But wider dimensions up to 8 feet are ideal for comfortable passage and work zones.
What size appliances work best for a one wall kitchen?
Standard size appliances end up feeling too bulky in a tight one wall kitchen. Opt for apartment sized or small appliances sized proportionately for the compact kitchen. Some options are 18-24 inch fridges, 20 inch dishwasher and 24-30 inch stove.
What kind of sink works best for a one wall kitchen?
A single bowl sink or compact double bowl sink helps save precious counter space in a tight kitchen. Shallow undermount sinks also help maximize usable area. A pull-down faucet is also useful for adding clearance at the backsplash.
How can you add seating in a one wall kitchen design?
Look for narrow countertop overhangs, space for stools on one end, a peninsula extension, or adding a small island or table. Even temporary folding stools can provide casual eating area when needed.
How much counter space do you need for a one wall kitchen?
Aim for at least 16 linear feet of total counter space in a one wall kitchen, split between food prep, cleaning and appliance zones. But more is better to prevent a cramped workspace – up to 25 linear feet if possible.
What is the minimum aisle width for a one wall kitchen?
36 inches is the recommended minimum width for walking space in a one wall or galley kitchen. But 42 to 48 inches or more is ideal for comfortable movement and pulling out drawers and appliances.
One Wall Kitchen Layouts: Stylish and Functional
The one wall kitchen layout allows you to take advantage of the space available and design an efficient and inviting kitchen. With clever planning, the right storage solutions and a bit of creativity, your single wall kitchen can accommodate all needed appliances, feel spacious, and also have a beautiful aesthetic. Use the ideas in this guide to create a compact yet functional and gorgeous cooking space suited to your unique needs and style. A meticulously organized one wall kitchen with character can be a stylish and smart solution for small homes and apartments.