Design Tips

Typical Work Triangles:
L Shaped Kitchen
Galley Kitchen
Wall Space in Kitchen

When it comes to designing a kitchen that is as functional as it is visually pleasing, Continental Cabinets, Inc. suggests following a very important design principle: the work triangle.

The work triangle is a viable tool for achieving the fundamental purpose of the kitchen: meal preparation. To achieve this purpose, three components should be considered:

  • Storage. This area includes the refrigerator and is the primary location where food is stored prior to preparation.
  • Prep and Cooking.This area includes the range or cook top and wall oven. This area will need adequate counter space.
  • Clean-Up. This area includes the sink and dishwasher.
The work triangle represents how these three areas are linked together. To evaluate your kitchen's work triangle, begin by drawing an imaginary line from the center of the sink to the center of the cooktop, then to the center of the refrigerator, and finally, back to the sink. A functional work triangle should meet the following requirements:
  • Each leg should measure between 4 and 9 feet
  • The sum of all three sides should not exceed 26 feet
  • The triangle should not cut through an island or peninsula by more than 12 feet
  • If the kitchen has only one sink, the triangle should be between or across from the cooking surface, prep area, or fridge
  • No major traffic patterns should cross the triangle.
Understanding and creating a successful work triangle is a key component to designing a functional kitchen; however, there are more rules relating to clearances, storage space, and prep space that also help improve functionality. These industry-accepted guidelines can be found on the National Kitchen and Bath Association website.