Looking for a layout that fits your exact kitchen dimensions? Whether you rent a studio, own a compact home, or design small kitchens professionally, these 30 layouts give you ready-to-copy measurements and represent the most successful tiny kitchen configurations.

Start with our layout fundamentals guide if you're new to kitchen planning. Click here to read.

These layouts solve specific spatial challenges across different square footages and cooking styles. Find the one closest to your dimensions, then adapt it to fit you.

Heads Up! Actual renderings of these layouts coming soon.

Single-Wall Configurations (40-60 sq ft)

Perfect for studio apartments, narrow alcoves, or spaces where you have one usable wall.

1. The 48-Inch Efficiency Line

Dimensions: 48" W × 24" D × 9' ceiling

How to lay it out:

1. Place your sink in the center of the counter.
2. On the left, install a compact 18-inch dishwasher.
3. On the right, add a 24-inch refrigerator.
4. At the far end of the wall, mount a two-burner cooktop.

Storage tips: Use slim 12-inch-deep upper cabinets above the counter and six base drawers below. Add a pull-out trash bin to save floor space.

Pros: Fits the smallest wall and keeps your costs low.

Cons: You only get about 12" of continuous counter space for prep.

Estimated cost: ≈ $3,500 – $6,000 (stock cabinets + compact appliances).

Best for: Studio apartments or efficiency rentals.

2. The 60-Inch Entertainer's Wall

Dimensions: 60" W × 24" D + 18" fold-down extension

How to lay it out:

1. Position your sink on the left side.
2. Keep about 24" of prep space beside it.
3. Center a 30-inch cooktop with downdraft vent.
4. Add a fold-down counter extension at the end to use as extra prep or serving space.

Storage tips: Install glass-front upper cabinets for dishes and an appliance garage for small gadgets.

Pros: Great for social cooking; folds away to feel open.

Cons: The fold-down mechanism adds $400–600.Estimated cost: ≈ $5,500 – $8,500 (semi-custom).

Best for: Solo cooks who love hosting others.

3. The Rolling Island Addition

Dimensions: 54" W × 24" D wall + 24" × 36" mobile island

How to lay it out:

1. On the wall, line up your sink (30"), range (24"), and under-counter fridge.
2. Place a rolling island in front for extra prep or casual dining.

Storage tips: Use upper cabinets above the wall counter and open shelves or drawers in the island for your utensils.

Pros: You get a flexible layout and can roll the island away for more floor space.

Cons: The island must be moved for cleaning or other activities.

Estimated cost: ≈ $4,200 – $6,800.

Best for: Multi-purpose spaces or small apartments.

4. The Vertical Stack Strategy

Dimensions: 48" W × 24" D × 9' ceiling minimum

How to lay it out:

1. Stack your microwave-oven combo in a tall column (about 48" high).
2. Add a two-burner cooktop on the counter beside it.
3. Place your fridge and sink side by side on the remaining section of the wall.

Storage tips: Install upper cabinets above the cooking unit and fridge for dry goods and small appliances.

Pros: You get full-size appliance functionality in minimal width.

Cons: Shorter users (under 5'4") may need a step stool for the upper microwave.

Estimated cost: ≈ $4,800 – $7,500.

Best for: Narrow alcoves that need every feature of a full kitchen.

5. The Stylish Rental Kitchen

Dimensions: 72" W × 24" D

How to lay it out:

1. Start with a 24-inch pantry cabinet on one end.
2. Add your 30-inch sink beside it.
3. Follow with an 18-inch dishwasher, 24-inch counter section, 24-inch range, and an 18-inch landing space at the end.

Storage tips: Mix closed cabinets below with open shelving above them to balance function and aesthetics.

Pros: Looks modern and renter-friendly, you don’t need to move any walls.

Cons: Limited enclosed storage up top.

Estimated cost: ≈ $3,800 – $5,500.

Best for: Renters wanting a stylish, non-permanent upgrade.

6. The Minimalist Kitchen

Dimensions: 42" W × 24" D

How to lay it out:

1. Place a small 18-inch sink on one end.
2. Beside it, fit a two-burner 18-inch cooktop.
3. Add a 24-inch under-counter refrigerator next to it.
4. Mount a microwave or toaster oven on a floating shelf above.

Storage tips: Keep the upper cabinets only, leaving the floor area open to make your kitchen feel bigger.

Pros: It’s incredibly compact, perfect for one person.

Cons: You can’t have a dishwasher or a full oven, just light cooking only.

Estimated cost: ≈ $2,200 – $4,000.

Best for: Solo renters who cook simply and want to save space.

Kitchen Galley Floor Plans (50-80 sq ft)

Galley kitchens are long and narrow, with two parallel counters. You can think of them as kitchen corridors with maximum efficiency. According to the NKBA, galley layouts typically provide 30-40% more counter space per square foot than other configurations.

7. The 42-Inch Passage Galley Kitchen

Dimensions: 72" L × 60" W (42" aisle between counters)

How to lay it out:

• Wall A: Sink (30") → Prep counter (24")
• Wall B: Range (30") → Refrigerator (36") Keep the aisle clear for movement; 42" is the sweet spot for one cook.

Storage tips: Install floor-to-ceiling cabinets on both walls and consider corner carousel units for deep corners.

Pros: It is extremely efficient, as every task is within arm’s reach.

Cons: It feels enclosed and is not ideal for two people cooking together.

Estimated cost: ≈ $8,500 – $12,500.

Best for: Solo cooks who value function over openness.

8. The Asymmetric Galley Kitchen

Dimensions: 84" L × 54" W (48" aisle)

How to lay it out:

• Use one full-depth wall (24") for all major appliances: your sink, stove, and fridge.
• Keep the opposite wall shallow (12"), adding floating shelves or a slim console for light storage.

Storage tips: Combine closed cabinets on one side with open shelving on the other to keep things bright and balanced.

Pros: It feels more open while maintaining galley efficiency.

Cons: You lose about 25% of storage compared to a full galley.

Estimated cost: ≈ $6,800 – $9,500.

Best for: Small homes where openness matters as much as storage.

9. The One-Sided Galley Plus

Dimensions: 84" L × 60" W (48" clearance)

How to lay it out:

• Keep everything, your sink, dishwasher, range, and fridge, on one wall.
• Use the opposite wall for a console table or breakfast ledge instead of cabinets.

Storage tips: Install full upper and lower cabinets on the main wall; add hooks or open racks above the console.

Pros: You get an open, airy feel that visually connects to your living room.

Cons: You still lose about 25% storage capacity.

Estimated cost: ≈ $7,200 – $10,000.

Best for: Open-concept homes or studio apartments.

10. The Through-Passage Galley Kitchen

Dimensions: 96" L × 60" W (42" aisle; 36" openings at both ends)

How to lay it out:

• Design your kitchen as a walk-through between the two rooms.
• Both walls get 24" counters, but leave open walkways at each end.

Storage tips: Use tall cabinets in the middle section and shorter ones near openings for visual balance.

Pros: It feels less claustrophobic and connects multiple spaces.

Cons: You lose about 15% of storage to those open ends.

Estimated cost: ≈ $8,000 – $11,500.

Best for: Homes where the kitchen connects two zones (like dining + living).

11. The Light Corridor

Dimensions: 84" L × 60" W (42" aisle)

How to lay it out:

Think of it as the standard galley layout, but with glass-front upper cabinets and LED interior lighting on both walls.

Storage tips:

• Keep your dishes neatly arranged, as the contents will be visible.
• Use under-cabinet lighting for added depth.

Pros: It feels larger and brighter than a typical galley.

Cons: This requires organized storage since everything is out in the open.

Estimated cost: ≈ $9,500 – $14,000.

Best for: Neat homeowners who love a designer look.

12. The Restaurant Prep Galley Kitchen Design

Dimensions: 96" L × 60" W (42" aisle)

How to lay it out: Think professional kitchen style: stainless steel counters, open metal shelving, and heavy-duty appliances.

Storage tips: Use open shelving for easy access and wall rails for your utensils.

Pros: You get professional-grade efficiency, and it’s easy to clean.

Cons: Everything will be on display, and you have to keep them organized.

Estimated cost: ≈ $10,000 – $15,000.

Best for: Serious home cooks who want commercial-level function.

13. The Long Narrow Galley Kitchen Solution

Dimensions: 144" L × 60" W (40" aisle)

How to lay it out: Both your walls have full cabinetry, but your upper cabinets alternate: full height on one side, shorter (30") on the other.

Storage tips: Use the taller side for pantry items, and the shorter side for glassware or decor to avoid having a “tunnel” look.

Pros: You get maximum storage without the boxed-in feel.

Cons: Works best with high ceilings (at least 11').

Estimated cost: ≈ $9,000 – $13,500.

Best for: Converted lofts or older homes with high ceilings.

14. The Open-Ended Galley Kitchen

Dimensions: 108" L × 60" W (42" aisle)

How to lay it out: Keep full-height cabinets and your appliances in the first 72", and base cabinets only in the last 36" near the living space.

Storage tips: Use the open end as a serving or display area.

Pros: It’s efficient for where you cook, open where you relax.

Cons: Visually mixed zones require cohesive materials (same countertop/backsplash).

Estimated cost: ≈ $8,500 – $12,000.

Best for: Homeowners who want a functional kitchen that still feels social.

L-Shaped Small Kitchen Floor Plans (60-90 sq ft)

L-shaped kitchens use two adjacent walls that meet in a corner. So, you need corner solutions that maximize the two adjacent walls while leaving the floor space open. L-shaped layouts typically increase usable counter space by 20-30% compared to single-wall configurations.

15. The Corner Sink L-Shape Kitchen

Dimensions: 72" long wall × 60" short wall

How to lay it out:

• Put the sink in the corner (angled between the two walls).
• Place the fridge on the short wall and the cooktop on the long wall.
• Use the stretch of counter between them for prep work.

Storage tips: Install a diagonal corner cabinet for the sink and use deep drawers under the counters for pots and pans.

Pros: This floor plan turns wasted corner space into something useful.

Cons: Custom corner sink base costs extra ($800–1,200).

Estimated cost: ≈ $9,500 – $14,500.

Best for: Small homes where every inch counts.

16. The Peninsula Addition

Dimensions: 96" long wall × 60" short wall + 24" peninsula

How to lay it out: Start with a regular L-shape, then extend one side with a peninsula counter for two stools. It can double as a breakfast bar or casual dining space.

Storage tips: Use base cabinets in the peninsula and leave the open space beneath for legroom.

Pros: This adds seating and defines your kitchen zone in open layouts.

Cons: It takes up about 12 sq ft of floor space.

Estimated cost: ≈ $10,500 – $15,000.

Best for: Apartments or condos where you want a kitchen table.

17. The Window Bay L-Shape Kitchen

Dimensions: 84" long wall (with bay) × 72" short wall

How to lay it out:

Put your sink inside the bay window to enjoy natural light. Arrange the other appliances (range, fridge) along the two main walls.

Storage tips: Custom cabinets can extend into the bay for extra depth or hidden storage.

Pros: You get a brighter workspace, plus more prep surface by the window.

Cons: The bay integration is custom work, which increases cost.

Estimated cost: ≈ $11,000 – $16,500.

Best for: Homes with an existing bay window.

18. The Open-Concept L-Shape Kitchen Floor Plan

Dimensions: 96" long wall × 48" short wall

How to lay it out:

• Use the long wall for your sink, dishwasher, and prep counter.
• On the short wall, place the range and fridge, but skip the upper cabinets for a more open look.

Storage tips: Go for full-height cabinets on the long wall and base cabinets only on the short side to keep your kitchen airy.

Pros: This floor plan keeps the kitchen social and connected to your living space.

Cons: You lose about 30% of storage, so plan a pantry or tall cabinet elsewhere.

Estimated cost: ≈ $9,000 – $13,000.

Best for: Open-plan homes where you can cook and entertain yourself at the same time.

19. The Compact L-Shape

Dimensions: 72" long wall × 60" short wall

How to lay it out:

• Long wall: Your sink, then the dishwasher
• Short wall: The range, then your fridge
• Use a Lazy Susan or pull-out corner unit to make that tight corner practical.

Storage tips: Choose slimline appliances (18" dishwasher, counter-depth fridge) to fit comfortably.

Pros: Fits perfectly into a 7'×8' kitchen.

Cons: You get small clearances.

Estimated cost: ≈ $8,500 – $12,500.

Best for: Studio apartments or secondary suites with real cooking needs.

20. The Raised Bar L-Shape

Dimensions: 96" long wall × 72" short wall

How to lay it out: Keep your regular L-shape but add a raised 42" bar counter behind your main 36" work surface. This hides the sink from view and creates space for 2–3 barstools.

Storage tips: Add multi-level cabinetry below the bar for hidden storage.

Pros: This design naturally separates the kitchen and living room zones.

Cons: Custom height variation adds complexity and cost.

Estimated cost: ≈ $11,500 – $16,000.

Best for: Open-concept homes where you want a subtle divider between cooking and lounging.

U-Shaped Compact Kitchen Plans (70-100 sq ft)

U-shaped kitchens use three connected walls or sides, wrapping your work area on three sides. They offer maximum storage and counter space in enclosed layouts. U-shaped kitchens typically provide 40-50% more storage capacity than single-wall layouts in the same square footage. They’re ideal if you cook often and want everything within arm’s reach.

21. The Classic U-Shape Kitchen (8×8 feet)

Dimensions: 96" × 96" overall, 48" walking space in the center

How to lay it out:

• The Back wall: Your sink (centered under a window if possible)
• The Left wall: Your refrigerator
• The Right wall: The range or cooktop

Storage tips: Expect roughly 15 linear ft of counter space and 20 cabinet doors (a huge amount for a small room, we know).

Pros: You get lots of storage and prep area (a real efficient work triangle).

Cons: There’s this enclosed feel; you won’t be enjoying any company, that’s for sure.

Estimated cost: ≈ $12,000 – $18,000.

Best for: Home cooks who want maximum function in minimal space.

22. The Broken U-Shape

Dimensions: Back wall 96" | One side 72" | Third side 60" (base cabinets only)

How to lay it out: Keep full-height cabinets on two sides but make the third side open or half-height with shelves. This keeps your kitchen airy while maintaining most of the storage.

Storage tips: You’ll retain about 70% of a full U’s capacity, but it’s enough for your cookware and pantry items.

Pros: It feels more open and allows for socialization while staying practical.

Cons: There’s less overhead storage on the open wall.

Estimated cost: ≈ $10,500 – $15,500.

Best for: Small apartments that need openness without losing any workflow.

23. The Shallow U-Shape

Dimensions: Back 108" | Left 96" (24" deep) | Right 96" (18" deep)

How to lay it out: Use standard cabinets on two sides, then make one leg shallow to create extra walking space.

Storage tips:Install custom 18"-deep cabinets or open shelving on the narrow side to keep it light.

Pros: This kitchen design adds several inches of breathing room (which might be huge in tiny kitchens).

Cons: The shallow side limits your appliance choices.

Estimated cost: ≈ $11,000 – $16,000.

Best for: Tight U-shapes where every inch of clearance counts.

24. The U-Shape with Peninsula Dining

Dimensions: Back 96" | Sides 84" (one extends 12" for bar seating)

How to lay it out: Extend one leg of the U into a peninsula with a raised eating bar to let two people cook while two others sit comfortably.

Storage tips: Add base cabinets under the bar for hidden storage and keep the top uncluttered.

Pros: This combines cooking and casual dining without a separate table.

Cons: The peninsula adds a bit to your budget and narrows the traffic space.

Estimated cost: ≈ $13,000 – $18,500.

Best for: Small homes where the kitchen doubles as a dining space.

25. The Split-Level U-Shape

Dimensions: 96" × 96" overall, with counters at three heights

How to lay it out:

• 36" standard prep counter
• 30" lower baking zone (with seated access)
• 42" raised section for bar seating

Storage tips: The varying heights let you tuck drawers and shelves wherever they fit best.

Pros: You get separate zones for prep, baking, and eating, all in one footprint.

Cons: The custom cabinetry costs more and needs careful planning.

Estimated cost: ≈ $14,500 – $20,000.

Best for: Avid bakers or cooks who love having specialized zones in a compact kitchen.

Creative Kitchen Floor Plans for Awkward Spaces (Various sq ft)

Not every kitchen fits neatly into a box.

Converted attics, old additions, and city apartments often have sloped ceilings, angled walls, or broken floor plans that make traditional layouts tricky.

These five floor plans turn those “problem” spaces into design advantages.

26. The Angled Wall Fix

Dimensions: 120" L × 84" W with a 30° angled wall

How to lay it out: Keep standard cabinets on the straight walls and install a custom 30° corner cabinet where the angle begins. This can double as a pantry, display area, or small appliance garage.

Storage tips: The angled cabinet recovers storage you’d normally lose to awkward geometry.

Pros: You get to turn wasted space into useful storage.

Cons: The custom angled cabinet adds about $1,200 – $2,000 to your budget.

Estimated cost: ≈ $9,500 – $14,000.

Best for: Homes with odd-angled walls, converted attics, or additions.

27. The Sloped Ceiling Kitchen

Dimensions: 108" W with ceiling height dropping from 96" to 54"

How to lay it out:

• Place taller cabinets and the fridge on the high side.
• Use open shelves or lower cabinets on the low side so the ceiling doesn’t feel oppressive.
• Position your cooktop where you can still vent properly.

Storage tips: Install angled floating shelves on the low side for visual balance and light storage.

Pros: You make your attic or top-floor kitchen functional and stylish.

Cons: Some upper storage will be out of reach on the sloped side.

Estimated cost: ≈ $8,000 – $12,500.

Best for: Top-floor or attic apartments where ceiling slope limits height.

28. The Bay Window Extension

Dimensions: 96" L × 84" W (includes 12–18" bay depth)

How to lay it out:Install the sink inside the bay window area to capture natural light and a view. The extended depth also gives you a larger work surface and extra hidden storage underneath.

Storage tips: Use the deeper bay for pull-out trays or cleaning supplies below the sink.

Pros: This adds some workspace and light, making your kitchen feel bigger.

Cons: The bay integration requires custom cabinetry, which raises cost.

Estimated cost: ≈ $10,000 – $15,500.

Best for: Homes or apartments that already have a bay or box window (see how to dress one here).

29. The Wide-Shallow Kitchen

Dimensions: 84" deep × 144" wide

How to lay it out:

• Run a long wall of shallow cabinets (18" deep) for storage, and add a 30" deep island in the center.
• Keep at least 42" of walking space on both sides of the island for comfort.

Storage tips: The island becomes your main prep and storage hub; use drawers and pull-outs underneath.

Pros: Your wide, shallow spaces feel proportional and functional.

Cons: It requires custom cabinets, since the standard ones are deeper.

Estimated cost: ≈ $11,500 – $16,500.

Best for: Lofts or older homes with wide but shallow kitchen areas.

30. The Two-Wall Split Kitchen

Dimensions: 120" L × 96" W with doorways or windows interrupting walls

How to lay it out: Split your appliances between two opposite, non-adjacent walls:

• Wall A: Sink + dishwasher
• Wall B: Range + refrigerator

This keeps the function intact even with obstacles like doors or windows.

Storage tips: Use tall pantry cabinets at wall ends or between openings to recover storage space.

Pros: Works around architectural obstacles like doors or windows.

Cons: You might walk a few extra feet between cooking zones.

Estimated cost: ≈ $9,000 – $13,500.

Best for: Kitchens that can’t support continuous counters or cabinetry.

Quick Reference: Finding Your Perfect Layout

By Kitchen Size

• 40–50 sq ft: Layouts #1, #6
• 50–60 sq ft: Layouts #2, #3, #5
• 60–70 sq ft: Layouts #7, #15, #19
• 70–80 sq ft: Layouts #8, #9, #16, #21
• 80–90 sq ft: Layouts #10, #17, #18, #22
• 90–100 sq ft: Layouts #11, #20, #24, #25

By Layout Type

• Single-Wall: Layouts #1–6
• Galley: Layouts #7–14
• L-Shape: Layouts #15–20
• U-Shape: Layouts #21–25
• Awkward/Custom: Layouts #26–30

By Budget

• Under $7,000: Layouts #1, #5, and #6
• $7,000–10,000: Layouts #2, #3, #4, #8, #9, #18, and #19
• $10,000–15,000: Layouts #7, #10, #11, #12, #15, #22, #23, #26, #28, and #30
• $15,000+: Layouts #13, #14, #16, #17, #20, #21, #24, #25, #27, and #29

By Cooking Style

• Solo cook, maximum efficiency: Layouts #7, #21
• Multiple cooks, need zones: Layouts #9, #16, and #24
• Entertaining focus: Layouts #2, #18, and #20
• Minimal cooking: Layouts #1, #6
• Professional workflow: Layouts #12, #21, and #25

How to Adapt These Layouts to Your Space

If your room is smaller or larger: You can usually adjust these plans by 6–12 inches. Just keep minimum clearances:

• 36–42 inches for walkways
• 30–36 inches in front of major appliances

If your appliances are of completely different sizes:

• A 30" fridge can replace a 36" model, just add 6" more counter space.
• An 18" dishwasher can replace a 24" one, add a narrow cabinet or pull-out.

If you rent:

• Use freestanding or portable appliances (Layouts #5 and #6).
• Add some style with peel-and-stick backsplashes and removable fixtures.

If you’re on a budget:

Start with layouts under $7,000 (layouts #1, 5, 6). Use stock cabinets and small appliances first, then upgrade gradually.

Test Your Layout Before Building

Before you buy cabinets or appliances, test your layout virtually:

• Scan your kitchen with the All Things Snug interior design app and drop in your chosen layout.
• Use visualization to walk through your design and see how it feels.
• Move things around until it fits your daily cooking routine perfectly.

Save your top versions to Mood Boards and share them directly with your contractor for accurate quotes.

Join the Snug Community Gallery to see how others transformed tiny kitchens like yours. You can also talk with Kathy to start brainstorming your options. Click the chat icon to get started!

Did you enjoy this read? Then you’ll love this piece on small kitchen ideas.