Kitchen layout guide: the work triangle, aisles and islands
The quick answer
Keep the sink, cooktop and fridge in a work triangle with each side 4–9 ft (1.2–2.7 m) long. Allow 42 in (105 cm) for work aisles with one cook and 48 in (120 cm) for two, and about 24 in (60 cm) of island width per seat.
A good kitchen layout saves steps every single day. These are widely used planning guidelines. Building and safety codes vary by country and region, so confirm details with your kitchen designer or installer, especially for gas, electrical and ventilation work.
The work triangle
Imagine a triangle between the sink, the cooktop and the fridge. Each side should be about 4–9 ft (1.2–2.7 m) long, and the three sides together 13–26 ft (4–8 m). Too small and the kitchen feels cramped; too big and you walk too much. Keep main walkways from cutting through the triangle.
Aisle widths
| Space | Guideline |
|---|---|
| Walkway (no cooking) | 36 in (90 cm) minimum |
| Work aisle, one cook | 42 in (105 cm) |
| Work aisle, two cooks | 48 in (120 cm) |
Kitchen islands
- Allow about 24 in (60 cm) of counter length per seat.
- For counter-height seating, leave about 12 in (30 cm) of overhang for knees.
- Choose stools with a seat 24–26 in (60–66 cm) high for a standard 36 in (91 cm) counter.
- Keep the aisle widths above on every side of the island.
Counter heights
Standard kitchen counters are about 36 in (91 cm) high in the US; in many other countries they range from about 85 to 92 cm. Taller people may prefer slightly higher counters for prep.
Kitchen lighting
Combine ambient light, under-cabinet task lighting (it removes the shadows you cast when working) and pendants over an island. Hang island pendants 30–36 in (75–90 cm) above the counter. Kitchens suit warm to neutral white, about 3000–4000 K.
Frequently asked questions
What is the kitchen work triangle?
The path between the sink, cooktop and fridge. Each side should be about 4–9 ft (1.2–2.7 m) long.
How much space do you need around a kitchen island?
About 42 in (105 cm) for one cook and 48 in (120 cm) for two.
How much space per seat at a kitchen island?
About 24 in (60 cm) of counter length per person.
How high should pendants hang over an island?
The bottom of each pendant 30–36 in (75–90 cm) above the counter.