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Design DIY Kitchens RENO ADDICT

Kitchen layout options — what’s right for you?

Sponsored by Freedom Kitchens

Getting your kitchen layout and flow right is the foundation for good kitchen design.

Your existing space will play an important part in determining the layout of your kitchen. However, don’t be limited by what you have now – a good designer can see beyond the current layout and come up with a solution that best suits your needs.

Firstly, let’s take a look at three popular kitchen layouts:

  1. U-shape: This is an ideal choice for larger spaces and allows two people to work together without interfering with each other.

U-Shaped Kitchen-Freedom Kitchens

  1. L-shape: This provides plenty of work space and storage space and can work well in either small or large kitchens. A large L-shaped kitchen can also be combined with an island or a dining table.

L-Shaped Kitchen-Freedom Kitchens

  1. Galley: The galley layout is perfect for narrow spaces and apartments where space may be limited. This is an efficient kitchen layout, with all storage, appliances and work spaces close at hand.

Galley Style Kitchen-Freedom Kitchens

Work triangle

Once you’ve determined the layout, pay special attention to how the three main work areas of the kitchen relate to each other. The “working triangle” of the sink, cooktop and fridge will work most efficiently when located within comfortable distance of each other – too close and you will be struggling for comfortable work space; too far apart and you will find yourself walking around the kitchen most of the time.

Other considerations include having bench space next to the ovens and cooktops for placing hot items, putting the dishwasher near the sink for easy clean up and the pantry near the fridge so all food storage is close together.

If you get your layout right, moving around the kitchen, cooking and entertaining will be a most enjoyable experience.

To view the latest product range and kitchen displays, visit your local Freedom Kitchens showroom. For a free, in-home kitchen design appointment, visit freedomkitchens.com.au or call 1800 113 733.

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Designers Kitchens The Block

Lysandra from The Block on designing a kitchen to stand the test of time

By Lysandra Fraser

Many people are at a loss when it comes to defining their style. I’m not afraid to admit that Alisa and I had no idea what the difference between contemporary and modern styles were. We would often get asked to define our style and we would reply with “the Alisa and Lysandra style”. Some people know what they like but are afraid of getting the terms wrong, so they struggle to be able to describe verbally what style or look they want. I believe that you don’t necessarily need to have a degree, or even have experience, to be able to put a room together, just a good eye for detail and a passion for design.

Alisa and Lysandra's kitchen on The Block Sky High
Alisa and Lysandra’s kitchen on The Block Sky High

When it came to designing our kitchen and bathrooms on The Block, we were very conscious about what they would look like in comparison to the changing trends, 10-to-15 years down the track. Kitchens and bathrooms cost a lot of money to change, so I believe that if you think carefully about your choices at the very beginning, you could have a kitchen/bathroom for 10-to-15 years without the need to upgrade in 5-to-10, when most kitchens and bathrooms would seem dated.