Who this guide is for
- Homeowners planning a kitchen layout
- People with narrow or corner-shaped rooms
- Anyone weighing workflow against openness
- Planners fitting a kitchen to a specific space
Workflow and the work triangle
A galley keeps sink, hob and fridge within easy reach across two facing runs, which many find efficient. An L-shape spreads the triangle around a corner, which suits a more open feel.
Counter space and storage
Both can offer generous counter and storage, but they distribute it differently. A galley uses two full runs; an L-shape frees one side of the room, trading some run length for openness.
- Galley: two facing runs, efficient workflow
- L-shape: corner layout, open on two sides
- Galley suits narrow rooms
- L-shape suits open or square rooms
Circulation and traffic
A galley can become a thoroughfare if it is a through-route, with two people passing awkwardly. An L-shape keeps the work in one corner, leaving the rest of the room clear for movement.
Room shape and openness
Galleys suit narrow rooms and through-kitchens; L-shapes suit square or open rooms and pair naturally with a dining or living zone. The room's geometry often makes the choice.
Adding seating or an island
An L-shape often leaves room for a table or island, while a galley rarely does. If you want eat-in or island space, the L-shape usually accommodates it more easily.
Kitchen layout planning checklist
- 1Measure the room and note its shape
- 2Map the sink, hob and fridge positions
- 3Decide whether the kitchen is a through-route
- 4Weigh workflow efficiency against openness
- 5Consider room for seating or an island
- 6Plan circulation for one or more cooks
- 7Match the layout to the room's geometry
- 8Test the work triangle in each option
Common mistakes to avoid
- Forcing a galley into a through-route with heavy traffic
- Choosing an L-shape in a narrow room that suits a galley
- Ignoring how two cooks will move in the space
- Sacrificing workflow for a look that doesn't fit
- Overlooking seating needs when choosing a layout
When to involve a professional
- A qualified kitchen designer can help fit the layout to the room and workflow
- Any services moved during a layout change should be planned with qualified trades
- Requirements vary by location and project, so confirm details locally
Frequently asked questions
Questions readers ask about this topic
Which layout is more efficient?
A galley keeps the sink, hob and fridge within easy reach across two facing runs, which many find efficient. An L-shape spreads the work around a corner for a more open feel.
Which suits a narrow room?
A galley suits narrow rooms and through-kitchens, lining work along two facing runs. An L-shape suits square or open rooms and pairs naturally with a dining or living zone.
Can I add seating?
An L-shape often leaves room for a table or island, while a galley rarely does. If you want eat-in or island space, the L-shape usually accommodates it more easily.
What about two cooks?
A galley can feel cramped if it is a through-route with people passing, while an L-shape keeps work in one corner and leaves the room clear. Consider how many cook at once.
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