The Key to a Great Kitchen Layout: The Kitchen Work Triangle

Above Photo: A u-shaped kitchen remodel illustrates the kitchen work triangle which is form by three points: the stove, sink and refrigerator.

To successfully remodel a kitchen, you should begin with the most basic requirement: the kitchen work triangle. A kitchen is the most essential and complex room in a home. That’s why it’s often the first room homeowners consider remodeling—you’ll get your money’s worth out of its use or recoup the investment when you sell. Yet, unlike most rooms in a home the kitchen relies on function before form. You want it to look good, but if something doesn’t function properly, you’re going to notice it every day.

What is the kitchen work triangle?

The kitchen work triangle is a time-tested design principle that states the three main work areas in a kitchen—the stove, sink and refrigerator—should form a triangle. Their close proximity and adjacent placement will give you the best functionality out of your kitchen. This is not folklore, it works! You’ll save countless steps, spills and struggles by following this golden rule.

Technically, the principle recommends that the three zones should be a clear path between 4-9 feet from one another and the and the total distance of the uninterrupted triangle should be between 13-26 feet. Any more or less than these standards and you may run into issues such as walking a long way with a full pot of water, or having nowhere between the refrigerator and stove to set down food waiting to be cooked.

In the modern home, kitchens have taken on new roles. They often becoming gathering areas and dining rooms, in addition to their original use. Sometimes it’s better to think of the kitchen in terms of different “zones” instead of a precise triangle. It’s the work triangle principle after all; it’s not a law. This evolved take on the kitchen work triangle states that zones should be self-contained. For example, if you’re an avid baker the “baking zone” would have baking utensils, pans, the sink, pantry and stove all within a short distance of each other. If you like to entertain in the kitchen the “entertainment zone” would have seating, glasses, the bar and countertop space for snacks.

Regardless of which guiding principle you choose, a good kitchen designer will be able to explain the pros and cons of each style to you. Ultimately, you should decide what’s best for your individual home and family.

Kitchen Design Starts with Layout

While there are so many things to consider during a kitchen remodel (space, appliances, cooking, dining, storage and more), one thing surpasses all other considerations: the layout. Start there with your kitchen designer and the other pieces will start to fall into place. Many different kitchen layouts can take advantage of these principles.

As a trusted Seattle home renovator, we can help bring your kitchen remodel dreams to life!