Kitchen Layouts: What to Look For in New Homes

Before diving headfirst into designing your dream kitchen, consider what truly suits your lifestyle. Do you crave efficiency? How do you live, cook, and entertain? Does the traffic flow make sense? And let’s not forget storage—because who doesn’t need more of it? These key factors will help you create a kitchen that’s not just beautiful, but brilliantly functional too.

Let’s explore the top six kitchen layouts and uncover what to consider before choosing your dream home.

1. Single Wall

Columbia Floor Plan, Urban Courtyard Homes Collection, Easton Park Community, Austin, Texas

Single wall kitchen layouts are the ultimate space-savers, packing everything you need—cabinets, appliances, and counter space—into one sleek, streamlined wall. Perfect for compact spaces or open-concept layouts, these kitchens combine style and functionality effortlessly. While islands aren’t typically part of single-wall designs, as shown in this image, incorporating a kitchen island cart or a dining table can boost both workspace and personality, offering added flexibility.

2. Galley

Brubeck Floor Plan, The Everly Collection, The Orchards Community, Edmonton, Alberta

Looking for a smart, space-saving kitchen that’s perfect for smaller areas? A galley kitchen layout might be just what you need. With its two parallel countertops or walls, this layout is all about smart design. Thanks to the "kitchen triangle"—the ideal placement of sink, stove, and fridge—cooking and movement feel seamless and effortless. Compact yet practical, this design offers a perfect balance of functionality, value, and appeal.

3. L Shaped

Laredo Floor Plan, Highland Ridge Collection, Alamar Community, Phoenix, Arizona

Style and function come together effortlessly in the L-Shaped kitchen layout. With countertops and cabinetry along two adjacent walls, it naturally forms the coveted work triangle, keeping everything within easy reach. Often paired with an island, it maximizes both workspace and storage while maintaining an open, inviting feel. Whether you’re working with a cozy space or an open-concept floor plan, the L-shaped kitchen adapts beautifully, maximizing functionality without compromising on its aesthetic.

4. U Shaped

Harper Left Floor Plan, Duplex Collection, Edgemont Community, Edmonton, Alberta

U-shaped kitchen layouts are perfect for those seeking efficiency, offering maximum counter and storage space. Spanning three walls, they provide ample room for meal prep and cooking, with cabinets that keep everything within reach. This design is especially helpful in smaller kitchens, making the most of every inch. While not ideal for larger open-concept spaces, the U-shape excels in functionality, offering a well-organized workflow that simplifies meal prep.

5. Peninsula

Alameda Floor Plan, Townhomes Collection, Crown Park Community, Calgary, Alberta

A peninsula kitchen design brings charm and practicality together with cabinets on three walls and a bold counter that extends outward to form a "peninsula." It’s a fantastic option if you crave the benefits of an island but don’t have the space for one. Love open-concept living? The peninsula design creates a versatile spot for cooking, eating, or gathering, effortlessly blending your kitchen with adjoining rooms.

6. Island

Columbia 3-24 Floor Plan, Front Garage Collection, Chappelle Gardens Community, Edmonton, Alberta

The true star of any kitchen? The kitchen island. This ultimate multitasker isn’t just a design element—it’s a game-changer. Seamlessly fitting into various layouts, the island serves as a gathering spot, a casual dining area, and hub for food prep.

When planning your kitchen island layout, consider its size, placement, and the space around it for easy movement. A good rule of thumb: keep it under 10% of your kitchen's total area. Want to make it work even harder for you? Customize it with handy features like a built-in charging station, wine storage, or a shelf for your favorite cookbooks. Stylish and functional, the island truly is the heart of the kitchen.

Brookfield Residential offers a variety of stunning kitchen designs and kitchen design layouts, each thoughtfully crafted to inspire. Whether you’re designing around your space, lifestyle, or personal taste, the choice is yours to create the perfect kitchen that truly feels like home.

If you’re seeking more kitchen design advice, explore the Brookfield Residential blog for articles, such as The Best Kitchen Paint Colors For Your Home, Top 10 Materials for Countertops, Best Wood for Kitchen Cabinets, and 15 Kitchen Decorating Ideas. Be sure to follow along for more home design inspiration!