Design Ideas for an L-Shape Kitchen

L-shape kitchens are popular because they work well where space is limited, they set up an efficient triangle connecting the three workstations—sink, cooktop, and refrigerator—and they allow the kitchen to open to another living space. An L-shape kitchen is easy for two cooks to share, and it lends itself to the addition of an island.

Key

1 - Cabinets are builder-grade stock units in a medium or dark wood tone.

2 - Countertops are economical laminate with a matching low-rise backsplash.

3 - The microwave sits on the countertop.

4 - A top-freezer refrigerator stands at the end of one leg of the L.

5 - Flooring is sheet vinyl or basic ceramic tile.

6 - A basic electric range occupies the end of the sink wall.

7 - A basic double-bowl sink with a two-handle faucet faces the window.

8 - There’s a built-in dishwasher to one side of the sink.

A table-style island provides convenient prep space and seating between the two legs of the L, saving steps and providing a spot for casual meals and a gathering spot for parties. Keeping the appliances and refreshing the cabinets with paint and new hardware frees up more of the budget for storage and surface upgrades.

Key

1. - Paint the cabinets and replace the hardware.
2. - Replace the countertops with solid surface. Add peel-and-stick backsplash tiles.
3. - Add a door-mount spice rack.
4. - Keep the existing appliances.
5. - Upgrade flooring to wood-look laminate.
6. - Add a small table-style island and stools.
7. - Install a ceiling-mount pot rack over the island.
8. - Add under cabinet puck lights.
9. - Add a utensil drawer organizer.
10. - Install a new acrylic sink and a high-arc faucet.
11. - Replace cabinets flanking the sink with open shelves.
    

A full-size island with a prep sink and seating creates a focal point that bridges the two sides of the L. The second sink makes it easy for two cooks to work, and the island seating provides a spot for casual meals. A new refrigerator framed by pantry cabinets consolidates food storage. Quartz and stone surfaces assure beauty and durability.

Key

1 - Replace the cabinetry and hardware.

2 - Upgrade to quartz for the countertops and backsplash.

3 - Install a folding corner cabinet door and lazy Susan.

4 - Replace the refrigerator with a built-in French-door or side-by-side model flanked by tall pantry cabinets.

5 - Add a full-size island with a prep sink and seating.

6 - Upgrade to stone or hardwood flooring.

7 - Add custom cookware storage by the range.

8 - Replace the range with a pro-style gas model and a canopy hood.

9 - Swap out the sink for a wider, deeper single-bowl model.

10 - Add pullout trash/recycling bins under the sink.