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The Most Popular Kitchen Layouts in the UK: Insights from Onfigr

Updated: Jun 18

Kitchen layout plays a crucial role in both functionality and style, influencing everything from social interactions to the practicalities of cooking in the space. Whether you're designing a new kitchen or renovating an existing one, understanding the most popular layouts can help you make informed choices. Thanks to data provided by Onfigr, a leading provider of kitchen visualisers and configurators for major manufacturers in the UK and USA, we can reveal which kitchen layouts homeowners favour the most.

Exploring the Key Kitchen Layouts

Onfigr’s kitchen visualisation tools allow users to configure and customise a range of layouts to suit their space and lifestyle. These are the five most commonly used designs:


Sumptuous Eating Room Red kitchen space with timeless Shaker-style aesthetics
(Image credit JJO PLC)

L-Shape

A versatile and space-efficient option, the L-shape layout features two adjoining walls of cabinetry and appliances. It provides an open feel and works well in both compact and spacious kitchens.

CGI render of a white and gold modern handleless kitchen with a minimal palette
(Image credit Blossom Avenue)

U-Shape

Also sometimes known as a horseshoe layout, this design maximises cabinetry and counter space by wrapping around three walls, creating the all important work triangle for cooking.

Modern walnut and almond beige handleless kitchen CGI
(Image credit Omega PLC)

Island Kitchen

A layout incorporating a central island, often used for additional prep space, breakfast bar dining, or entertaining. This option is popular in larger open-plan kitchens where the island serves as a focal point.

CGI render of Lawrenson red and shell ivory kitchen
(Image credit Uform)

Galley Kitchen

A streamlined layout with two parallel runs of cabinetry, galley kitchens are a good way to create the efficient work triangle, making them ideal for smaller homes and apartments.

Modern cool blue and green slab door kitchen with brass rail.
(Image credit Wren Kitchens)

G-Shape

Similar to the U-shape but with an additional return, the G-shape kitchen offers extra counter space, commonly used for breakfast bars, making it a great choice for larger kitchens.


What the Data Reveals

Onfigr’s analytical data provides a fascinating insight into the kitchen layouts homeowners are choosing. L-shaped kitchens are the most popular, making up 60% of all configurations, likely due to their versatility and suitability for a wide range of UK home sizes. The U-shape follows at 20%, appealing to those who prioritise storage and an efficient workspace layout.


Island kitchens account for 12%, reflecting their popularity in open-plan homes, although the layout is less common in smaller UK properties where space for an island is often limited. Meanwhile, galley kitchens and G-shape kitchens only make up around 4.5% and 3.5% of designs, likely due to the rarity of the layouts.


Pie chart displaying the most popular kitchen layout data

Bringing Your Kitchen Design to Life

Understanding these layout preferences is just the first step in designing a kitchen that works for your space. Onfigr’s cutting-edge visualisation tools allow homeowners and designers to customise cabinetry, finishes and layouts with real-time interactive configurators. Their software is used by some of the largest kitchen manufacturers in the UK and USA, helping customers visualise their dream kitchen before making a purchase.


If you're considering a kitchen renovation, exploring these layouts in a visualiser tool can give you a clearer picture of what works best for your home. Whether you're drawn to the open feel of an L-shape, the practicality of a U-shape, or the sociability of an island kitchen, there’s a layout to suit every style and space.

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