The U-shaped kitchen is a classic design. Some of us have no choice but to have one, whereas others strive to achieve the look.
Sometimes called a C-shaped kitchen, this type involves having worktops along three adjoining walls of cabinetry with one end open to allow for access.
They are perfect for smaller kitchens, but large kitchens can make them work too, as long as the worktops aren’t set too far apart.
So how can you make the most of your U-shaped kitchen? Or if you’re remodelling your kitchen, how do you create the best one? Follow our guide here.
Plan properly
As with every home improvement project, you should take the time to plan everything properly. You don’t want to end up with a kitchen that’s completely different to the way you visualised it.
It’s a good idea to put your sink under the window as you’ll get lots of natural light. And your cabinets can run along at the same length or varying lengths – the choice is yours. Just make sure you know exactly what you want before you start.
Use symmetry
Symmetry works well in a U-shaped kitchen because the parallel runs offer the space for you to make a symmetrical design. It’ll give your kitchen a balanced and consistent feel.
It’s best to put an appliance like an oven in the middle which can act as a centre point. In the top picture, the kitchen uses an extractor fan in the middle. Then you can move outwards with other appliances and accessories.
Make your kitchen efficient
One great thing about U-shaped kitchens is that they can reduce the amount of pottering around you need to do in between appliances and storage units. You should be able to move between everything quite easily without the danger of spillages or trip hazards.
Another great advantage of this type of kitchen is that it should be easy to tidy and keep clean. Everything will have its place and it won’t look uncluttered.
Make it work for you
A benefit of the U-shaped kitchen is that you can fit it to work for you. There’s much more flexibility if you’ve got a larger kitchen, but there’s still plenty of room to add your own creative flair in a smaller kitchen.
The kitchen above is large but it still gets the U-shaped look. The different length runs work in a large kitchen, opening out the space even further.
However you decide to design your kitchen, there are professionals out there to help you. Just fill in our form below and we’ll put you in touch with up to 4 professionals who can give you a quote.