5 kitchen layout mistakes to avoid
The kitchen is often called the heart of the house. It's where we spend the time preparing meals, chatting while loading the dishwasher or washing up, and it always seems to be where people gather during family gatherings and parties – so it's one of the most important areas in your home to get right.
"When approaching a kitchen design, my focus is on achieving a harmonious balance between functionality, aesthetics, and practicality," Claire Garner, director of Claire Garner Design Studio, tells Country Living.
Understanding how you and your family will use your kitchen and the requirements of the space for entertaining will help you to decide how best to approach the kitchen layout design in the initial stages.
5 kitchen layout mistakes to avoid
Keep your kitchen streamlined and efficient with these layout rules, as advised by interior designers. The kitchen is the most functional room of the house, so it's important to ensure it's practical.
Many of us use our kitchen space for entertaining and cooking more intimate family meals, adding an extra layer of complexity when planning the layout. If you're unsure where to start, these expert-approved tips should help.
1. Poor flow between appliances and not enough surface space
"When planning the main kitchen layout, I prioritise efficiency by organising key components like the sink, stove, and fridge in a triangular arrangement, known as the work triangle," Claire explains.
"This ensures a smooth workflow and easy access to essential areas during meal preparation. Additional elements such as dishwashers, pantries, or wine fridges are strategically incorporated after the core items based on individual needs and preferences.
"Architectural details like sloping ceilings or alcoves must be carefully considered to optimise placement and enhance the kitchen space's overall functionality and design appeal."
A kitchen island can also be a way to create more surface space in a kitchen, but the design should be kept minimal, Claire explains.
"When space allows, kitchen islands play a crucial role, serving as multifunctional hubs for food preparation, hosting, and casual dining.
"I aim to keep kitchen islands minimal to maximise surface area, especially for clients who love to entertain or have children, providing additional social seating and allowing for easy multitasking while cooking."
2. Too many chairs that disrupt the flow of traffic
Seating is important in the kitchen, but anything that obstructs access to appliances or doorways is a big kitchen layout mistake.
"Including seating such as stools around the island will ensure that guests can be comfortable, although it’s best to try and keep these away from appliances to avoid any issues with flow," Molly Chandler, designer at Willis & Stone, explains.
"For example, it could be awkward having to walk behind your guests to get into the fridge if they sit in front of it. Also, unless the room size is particularly large, it’s best to keep stool seating out of any main walkways (for example, into the kitchen, through to the dining table or out to the garden or patio) as this will also disrupt the traffic flow."
3. Neglecting considerations around lighting
Lighting plays a big role in any room of the house — and even more so in the kitchen where you will be preparing food. "Strategic lighting is essential, especially above prep and cooking zones," Paul Richardson, kitchen stylist from Wren Kitchens, explains.
Molly also points out that homeowners will want to consider the different layers of lighting needed in a kitchen, from brighter lights for cooking to more atmospheric lighting: "In a kitchen, consider ambient lighting to create a well-lit and inviting space and adequate task lighting directly above the cooking area to ensure good visibility."
She adds: "Complete the look with decorative lighting such as under-cabinet or inside glass wall cabinetry."
4. Not having enough storage space
Too much clutter in a kitchen can lead to a chaotic space, which is the last thing you want when starting to prepare a meal.
Having designated spaces for kitchen items will allow you to move around the space more methodically and save time in the long run — but most of us will need ample storage space to house everything comfortably.
"Utilising cabinets, drawers, and vertical space keeps items within reach while reducing counter clutter," Paul explains.
He continues: "Overcrowded or obstructed pathways, poor storage planning, and a lack of accessible outlets make the kitchen feel cramped and cluttered, undermining its utility and comfort. An ideal kitchen layout maximises both workflow and storage."
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5. Not thinking carefully about whether to go for an open-plan space
While open-plan kitchen and dining spaces are still extremely popular, they have drawbacks, particularly for those who entertain a lot.
"Open plan kitchen and dining areas have been a popular choice for a while now, and whilst they can bring obvious benefits, it could be worth considering a separate dining room if you like to entertain," Claire explains.
"Having a separate kitchen from your dining room means everyone can escape the noises, smells and mess of a kitchen and puts less pressure on purchasing extra facilities to keep the kitchen tidy.
"For example, with open-plan layouts, customers may feel the need to purchase second dishwashers for utility rooms or quieter appliances, which can cost more. Some may even opt for a back kitchen used as a prep and tidying-up area."
While this concept might sound attractive in theory, it's not as practical for many properties, so a separate dining room and kitchen would be better suited.
Shaan Storage Jar
This roomy jar has plenty of space for pasta or oats, and its hammered glass finish will add texture and character to open shelving.
Wooden Storage Box
Place this on a worktop for a characterful way to store cutlery or utensils.
£115.00 at grahamandgreen.co.uk
Floral Print Kitchen Caddy Storage Jars
Make tea and coffee kitchen display-worthy with some colourful caddies – we love Emma Bridgewater's uplifting floral designs.
Stackable Wire Storage Baskets Bundle
Make the most of cupboard or pantry space with stackable storage solutions – ideal for fruit and vegetable storage.
Cream Bread Bin
This enamel bread bin has plenty of vintage charm – and is excellent value.
Suffolk Ash Olive Board
Pick rustic wooden boards to display on open shelving – like this, made from Suffolk-grown ash.
£17.00 at countrylivingshop.co.uk
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