If you’ve been researching kitchen designs, you probably came across the concept of the kitchen work triangle. This layout has been the standard for kitchens for many years. However, it’s not the only option–the “work zone” layout has also gained popularity in recent years, especially in kitchens with a more modern design. Which is the better design for your kitchen — the work triangle or work zones?
In this post, kitchen and bathroom remodeling specialist JLR Home Renovation discusses the strong and weak points of the kitchen work triangle and work zones.
In the work triangle, the cooktop, refrigerator and sink are configured in a triangle layout, with each leg of the triangle less than four feet or more than nine feet, with the sum of the three triangle sides not exceeding 26 feet. The main goal of this design is to ensure comfort and efficiency in the kitchen so that you can move easily between the three main work areas.
Despite the very specific requirements of the kitchen work triangle, your remodeling contractor can personalize the space to reflect your style and taste while maintaining the triangle. However, the work triangle doesn’t work in all spaces. For example, the kitchen triangle isn’t ideal for galley style kitchens due to the limited space.
If you have an open concept kitchen, work zones may be a better solution as they allow you to put that large space to better use. Nowadays, homeowners don’t only have to consider the cooktop, refrigerator and sink. There are also dishwashers, microwaves, wall ovens and extra sinks to think about. Furthermore, kitchens have also become a space not just for meal prep and cleanup, but for dining and socializing as well. Thus, the traditional work triangle may not be the best design for your kitchen.
When creating work zones, appliances and fixtures are typically grouped according to use. This means considering the tasks that you perform regularly — food preparation, cooking, baking, storing food, serving, coffee, eating, etc. — and allotting a particular area for each activity.
JLR Home Renovation offers a full range of remodeling services, including kitchen, bathroom and basement remodeling. With our team’s dedication to excellence, you can rest assured that your project will be executed professionally. Call us at (717) 361-6175 or fill out our contact form to request a free estimate. We serve customers in Elizabethtown, Hummelstown and Hershey, PA.