5 things to know for an efficient open kitchen layout

1. L-shaped, U-shaped or galley kitchen?

A galley kitchen is practical for small spaces. This narrow layout is usually complemented by a kitchen island, which physically divides the area from the other living spaces.

An L-shaped kitchen maximises space by utilising the corner of the kitchen and opening up plenty of potential for storage.

A U-shaped layout places units on three sides of the kitchen, with the top of the 'U' left accessible, and increases the storage capacity along the wall.

2. Worktop height & elbow room

Note the dimensions required for counters, built-in appliances and aisle spaces. The standard height for countertops is between 85cm and 90 cm.

Consider going higher if you are tall to avoid backache from bending over to chop veggies or wash the dishes. To avoid squeezing between counters, the ideal aisle width would be 1m for one cook and 1.2m for two cooks.

3. Understand your needs

There's no one size fits all when it comes to kitchens. Its design depends largely on its size and primary uses. For instance, do you bake often, do heavy cooking or use it for entertainment? Evaluate your appliances, too.

"Busy families may prefer ovens with multiple heating modes to save time on defrosting and heating food," says Adrian Kok, Head of Marketing ASEAN, BSH Home Appliances.

4. Storage Space

Don't underestimate the amount of storage you'll need. Make an inventory of all the items you already have and potentially need, including appliances such as a sleek and stylish fridge, a combination microwave oven and an air fryer.

5. Lighting

Well-planned lighting can elevate the look of your kitchen and improve your food preparations.

The three main types are basic light for the area; task lighting, which highlights a specific work area such as the cooker top or countertop; and accent lighting, which can create a focal point.

Tip

"When it comes to open kitchen concepts, having a consistent Correlated Colour Temperature (CCT) of 3,000K throughout the home allows homeowners to create a soft ambience within the kitchen and the rest of the home," says Joseph Ho, co-founder of Sol Luminaire.

This article was first published in Home & Decor.