Before committing to a kitchen estimate, you must first cover the necessary bases when planning a kitchen remodel. One of them involves your choice of layout and when it comes to simplicity and efficiency, the U-shaped kitchen is worth considering.
It is characterized by three connected walls, each with its own combination of appliances and cabinetry. Modern iterations of the U-shaped kitchen draw inspiration from the open-concept style, where one of the walls is replaced by a standalone or fixed countertop. This creates a seamless connection between the kitchen and the rest of the living spaces, all while staying true to the layout’s innate functionality.
Like most kitchen layouts, the U-shaped kitchen has its benefits and drawbacks. DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen of Elizabethtown discusses them here.
The Pros
One of the many advantages of the U-shaped kitchen is that it offers plenty of counter space. The continuous shape of the space makes this possible, which means more than enough work area for not only food preparation but also other purposes, like an eat-in setup with diner-style seating. Since most of its floor area is concentrated in the middle, moving around the U-shaped kitchen is a breeze.
Another advantage of the U-shaped kitchen that’s worth noting is the fact that it creates separation. In the more traditional layout, the third wall acts as a partition between the space and the dining area. This allows you to focus on whatever you’re doing in the kitchen. The separation created by the countertop in the more modern layout, however, is subtle – you can still hold a conversation with someone in the living room while you cook.
The placement of the cabinets on all the three walls of your kitchen means you get to take advantage of ample storage. If you have enough floor space, you can incorporate an island into the kitchen layout. While this can add to your existing kitchen quote, this feature allows for more storage, counter space and even seating.
The Cons
Depending on your current space and other limitations, the U-shaped kitchen may not always be the right choice of layout. One of the most notable is the fact that it can feel cramped, especially since the work areas are within close proximity of each other. Another disadvantage is the need to find a workaround for corner cabinets. More often than not, builders disregard these areas during a remodel, leaving dead space that could have been used for other purposes.
Such challenges can be solved with the help of experienced kitchen remodelers. They can help you find the best solutions tailored to your needs and the space’s limitations. With the right design plan, you can enjoy the many benefits that come with a U-shaped kitchen layout.
Let’s Start a Conversation!
Still searching online for a “kitchen remodeler near me“? DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen of Elizabethtown has got you covered! Call us today at (717) 452-4942 or fill out our contact form to schedule a consultation. We are proud to serve homeowners in Elizabethtown, Hershey, Mount Joy, Lancaster, Harrisburg and beyond.
