If you’re buying kitchen cabinets online, your layout matters more than your door style. A great cabinet layout improves traffic flow, storage, and usability — and it prevents the most expensive remodel mistakes (like drawers that don’t open or islands that block walkways).
This guide breaks down the five most common kitchen layouts (with real-world pros and cons), and shows how to translate each layout into a cabinet list for a full kitchen order.
If you want the fastest path to a correct cabinet list, Riley & Higgs offers free design services. Send your measurements and we’ll build the cabinet layout and item list for you.
The rule that makes every layout work: clearance
· Main walkways: aim for 42"+ (48" ideal for busy kitchens)
· Between island and perimeter cabinets: 42" minimum, 48" if two cooks
· Around appliances: account for door swings and pull-out trays
· Corner solutions: blind corners waste space unless designed intentionally
1) L-Shape kitchen layout
Best for: open concepts, medium kitchens, flexible island placemet.
· Pros: efficient workflow, easy to add an island, great for entertaining
· Cons: corner storage challenges (requires blind corner or lazy Susan)
· Typical cabinet list: sink base, dishwasher, drawer bases, corner cabinet, wall cabinet run
Conversion bridge: L-shape layouts are perfect for a full kitchen cabinet set because the entire cabinet run is planned as a single system. This is where free design services save time and prevent corner mistakes.
2) Galley (corridor) kitchen layout
Best for: narrow kitchens, condos, rental units, efficient remodels.
· Pros: incredibly efficient, lower cabinet count for the storage you get
· Cons: needs adequate aisle width; can feel tight without light colors
· Typical cabinet list: two parallel base runs + wall cabinets on both sides
Pro tip: In galley kitchens, drawer bases outperform door bases. Most homeowners underestimate the value of drawers until they live with them.
3) U-Shape kitchen layout
Best for: high-storage kitchens, serious cooks, larger homes.
· Pros: maximum counter space and storage, great work triangle
· Cons: can feel closed-in; corners must be planned carefully
· Typical cabinet list: sink base centered on one wall, corner cabinets on both sides, continuous wall cabinets
Conversion bridge: U-shapes are the most mistake-prone DIY layout because small errors compound at the corners. This is one of the strongest reasons to use free design.
4) Peninsula kitchen layout
Best for: kitchens that need separation from living spaces without building walls.
· Pros: adds seating and storage, improves flow, defines the room
· Cons: can bottleneck traffic if walkway is tight
· Typical cabinet list: base cabinets + overhang + optional decorative panels
Pro tip: Plan seating last. First ensure appliance doors clear and walkways remain 42"+.
5) Island kitchen layout
Best for: open floor plans, entertaining, high-end remodels.
· Pros: adds storage, increases prep space, creates a natural centerpiece
· Cons: requires square footage and proper clearance to function
· Typical cabinet list: base cabinets on one or both sides, panels, trash pullout, microwave drawer option
How to turn a layout into a cabinet order
1. Measure walls and ceiling height
2. Choose your layout type
3. Place sink, range, refrigerator (workflow first)
4. Assign base cabinets by function: drawers, trash, sink, corners
5. Add wall cabinets and/or pantry storage
6. Validate clearances
7. Build an itemized cabinet list
Free design services: the shortcut to a correct layout
Riley & Higgs can turn your measurements into a complete cabinet layout and item list for a full kitchen order. This helps homeowners avoid costly mistakes and helps contractors quote faster and win projects.
Get started on your own custom design! Submit your measurements, photos, and appliance specs to get a free kitchen cabinet design and quote.