20 Modern Kitchen Remodel Designs on a Single Wall

Estimated reading time: 7 minutes

Sometimes space is not a luxury within a home to facilitate a U, L or G-shaped layout.

The most important aspect to kitchen design is referred to as the “work triangle” which represents the efficiency of utilizing the space. Hard to consider with a single wall kitchen design layout but still relatively easy to relate to.

Although the “work triangle” is key piece to the design of the kitchen, it is not the only major consideration. Other general guidelines to kitchen layout can be found http://www.nkba.org/Guidelines/Kitchen.aspx

See Also: 20 Modern Open Living Room Ideas

Kitchen Work Triangle

The “work triangle” is defined by the National Kitchen and Bath Association as an imaginary straight line drawn from the center of the sink, to the center of the cooktop, to the center of the refrigerator and finally back to the sink. The NKBA suggests the following guidelines for work triangles:

• The sum of the work triangle’s three sides should not exceed 26 feet, and each leg should measure between 4 and 9 feet.
• The work triangle should not cut through an island or peninsula by more than 12 inches.
• If the kitchen has only one sink, it should be placed between or across from the cooking surface, preparation area, or refrigerator.
• No major traffic patterns should cross through the triangle.

But what the heck do I do when my only option is on a single wall?

Single Wall Galley Kitchen

Although the geometric flow of the “work triangle” becomes more linear in nature, it is still possible to design a efficient and comfortable space to function within.  A few things to consider when designing a kitchen layout for a single wall:

• Is the general home traffic separate from kitchen utilization?
• Does the cabinets and appliances create a depth to the space to pull you in visually?
• Do the countertop and cabinet materials evoke a sense of interest and draw attention to details within the kitchen?
• Light, light and more light. Where is the kitchen located in relationship to windows and lighting? Do you need additional under-cabinet lighting or pendent fixtures to ensure proper illumination for the counter surface.
• The list could really go on and on … but here are some pretty pictures!

Modern Kitchen Examples