An “L”-shaped or corner kitchen set is the most versatile and convenient layout option. It fits perfectly into small kitchens. Allows you to optimally zone the space of large and narrow, elongated rooms. Such a set occupies space along two adjacent walls, and the length of the two “legs” can be completely different:
- one is long, located along a blank wall, the second is noticeably shorter, consisting of 1-3 cabinets. As a rule, it occupies the space between the corner and the window or door;
- two lines of cabinets are the same length, which is suitable for square kitchens;
- There is a difference in length, but it is insignificant.
In addition, corner sets are often complemented with bar counters, islands and peninsulas. This equipment gives the kitchen a special look and creates additional comfort during cooking, family meals and entertaining guests.
There are a lot of design and configuration options for corner kitchen units. Modern manufacturers offer a wide range of finished products suitable for almost any layout. In addition, you can use universal modular solutions, varying the number, location and purpose of lockers at your discretion.
Today we will look at the most popular trends for corner kitchens, select the most ergonomic arrangement of household appliances and sinks, and determine the size of the furniture elements.
Corner kitchen: design and its features
Corner kitchens, photos of which are presented in a wide variety in various design print and online publications, are one of the most universal solutions, as they have a unique property - they can fit into a room of any size, the interior of which is decorated in any style. This property is especially attractive for arranging mini-kitchens.
If we consider the options for corner kitchens, we can distinguish their three main components: one is located in the corner, and two are located on the side of it.
Photo from source: designwiki.ru
Tabletop Cedar 1110/S White
Bowl design
If we omit the functional properties of the sink (size, depth, etc.) and focus solely on the aesthetic component, there are four factors remaining that influence the choice of a corner bowl :
- Sink shape (rectangular, round, trapezoidal).
- Installation method (surface or built-in).
- Color.
- Material (artificial stone, stainless steel, etc.)
Everyone has their own idea of the “ideal” sink. One likes the rectangular one made of stainless steel, and the other likes the round one made of porcelain stoneware. With any option, if desired, you can find both advantages and disadvantages. Therefore, everyone chooses a suitable sink design independently, based on the general features of the interior, individual preferences and their own budget.
Corner kitchen project: where to start?
The central part is where you should start when planning a corner kitchen unit. And after that, expand it to the required length.
The main elements of the kitchen are the upper and lower modules.
But additional ones include:
- false boxes, in which, as a rule, all communications necessary in the kitchen are hidden;
Photo from source: pinterest.ru
Table top Cedar 3852/P Corsica Oak
- bar counter;
Photo from source: pinterest.ru Tabletop Cedar 1021/Q Black
— chrome roof rails;
Photo from source: smartshapiro.ru
— cornices equipped with additional lighting;
Photo from source: pinterest.ru
Table top Cedar 759/1 Black bronze
— sections with built-in household appliances.
Photo from source: extraspace.com Tabletop Cedar 3021/S Roman Travertine
Lighting
An important point to pay attention to is the lighting of the room. The corner kitchen can be equipped with additional lighting for the convenience and beauty of the interior.
- Original lighting behind glass cabinet doors will visually expand the room.
- Strips with LEDs at the top of the cabinets will make the furniture visually lighter.
- The glossy surface of the furniture and reflective glass details will add light to the kitchen interior.
The corner kitchen layout will serve as an excellent option for decorating a small or medium-sized kitchen space. Properly selected furniture will not only help save space in the kitchen and visually increase the space, but will also make it functional and convenient for the housewife.
About the advantages of a corner kitchen and its design
So what are the advantages of a corner kitchen design? You always want to talk about good things as much as possible, so let’s expand on this question:
• functionality - in such rooms, as a rule, corner sofas are placed. They are small, but they give the kitchen maximum comfort. This is a great additional storage space, since under the seat of the sofa you can hide the most rarely used items;
Photo from source: houseandhome.com
• compactness - they do not take up much space, but also help to use space efficiently;
Photo from source: interiors.beyhomedecor.com
Tabletop Cedar 2073/Pw Light Oak
• the ability to create effective zoning by dividing the kitchen space into two zones.
Photo from source: scavoliniusa.com
Tabletop Cedar 111/1 White
For whom are corner kitchens most relevant?
• for owners of studio apartments or kitchen-dining/living rooms;
Photo from source: behance.net
Tabletop Cedar 7461/FL Redondo
• area less than ten square meters.
Photo from source: apartmenttherapy.com
If the area is still larger, the set is complemented by an island/peninsula, and additional cabinets are installed along the wall on the opposite side.
Photo from source: hqroom.ru
Tabletop Cedar 4091/Q Damask steel
Tricks for arranging small corner kitchens
• reducing the depth of one of the sides of the tabletop by 10 - 15 cm - of course, in this case, the useful storage space is reduced, but there is more freedom of movement;
Photo from source: pinterest.ru
• tabletop equipment under the window - when one side of the set is located along the wall with a window. This could also be a mini-tabletop or bar counter;
Photo from source: inmyroom.ru
• installing the peninsula so that one of its sides is along the wall, and the shorter side is across and not adjacent to the wall. Thus, freedom of access to the peninsula is provided on both sides at once. A bar counter/desk can be used as a peninsula. Firstly, it turns out very ergonomic. Secondly, it provides an excellent opportunity to zone the room;
Photo from source: intera-mebel.ru
• creating narrower and taller headset modules than standard options - thanks to this technique, the ceiling height visually increases and the headset looks beautiful;
Photo from source: helsingo.com
• right angle - perhaps this is the best option if the room is small. After all, a trapezoidal angle will take up more space compared to a straight one.
Photo from source: pinterest.ru
Washing
For sinks in corner kitchens, the place is almost always predetermined: this is the joint between two walls, that is, the corner itself. The choice of such sinks is large, so there should be no problems with the choice. Corner sinks are usually much larger than others, which is very convenient for large families.
The main thing to remember is that ordinary sinks cannot be suitable for “straight” single-wall kitchens, because they are oriented perpendicular to the wall, which means that if you place such a sink in the corner of the kitchen, you will find it extremely inconvenient to use it.
Are there any downsides to a corner kitchen layout?
A corner kitchen has not only advantages, but also disadvantages. Since we are honest with our readers, we will tell you about the disadvantages of the project in as much detail as about the advantages:
• if the drawers are open, they will prevent the doors on the side from opening. If you have to plan a corner kitchen, this point should definitely be thought out in advance;
• it is almost impossible to purchase such a set ready-made, so it is necessary to draw up a project for a personal order. Thus, more time is spent on order production; installation requires professional assemblers;
• if you plan to place a sink in the corner, in order to use the space with maximum benefit, you need to equip the corner cabinets from both the lower and upper rows with special fittings. For example, baskets/retractable shelves/multi-story carousel.
Which installation method should I use?
In terms of installation methods, corner sinks do not differ from straight sinks. They are:
- Mortise. “Lie” on the surface. Moisture getting under the sides is almost inevitable.
- Flat. The upper border is flush with the tabletop. Hygienic, convenient option.
- Invoices. The edge is a few cm higher than the tabletop. Needs adjustment in height - the top edge is a maximum of 85-90 cm from the floor.
- Under-table. The sink is recessed under the countertop. Suitable for stone panels only.
The “flat edge” installation method is considered optimal for the kitchen - it looks neat and is 100% tight.
How to use a corner in a corner kitchen wisely?
Don't forget that a corner is also a valuable area that can be very useful as a place to store or display something. Among the techniques for effectively using this space, we list the following:
- installation of a rectangular set combined with a corner cabinet - this solution will create a visual impression that these are two different cabinets, but inside it will be a single space. This technique is practical and ergonomic;
Photo from source: interiorexplorer.ru
- placing built-in household appliances in the corner will give the kitchen unit the most neat appearance and make the corner functional;
Photo from source: asko-russia.ru
— installation of a corner cabinet equipped with a “carousel” inside, which greatly facilitates access to everything that is stored inside the cabinet and provides the maximum amount of free space;
Photo from source: alimpia-mebel.ru
- appearance is something that should not be forgotten, even if the emphasis is on functionality - to make the kitchen space airy and light, the corner can be equipped with open shelves. In addition, this will help save a share of the budget spent on the manufacture of kitchen units and expand the free space;
Photo from source: pinterest.ru
— "train" fastenings in cabinets - structures specifically designed so that during the process of opening the cabinet, the shelves are pulled out one after another. Thanks to this, there is unhindered access to all items stored in them. Even those that are in the far corners of the closet;
Photo from source: sakhmebel.com
— placing a hob or sink in a corner is one of the most useful options for its operation. Sinks with two bowls look especially interesting;
Photo from source: hansloren.pl
— placing the dish dryer in the shape of the letter “L” will not present any difficulty and will provide easy access to the contents.
Photo from source: hypermarketmebel.ru
How does it look in the interior?
The corner location is suitable for any style: from delicate Provence or strict classics to modern minimalism. To prevent plumbing fixtures from attracting unnecessary attention, look for models that match the color of the countertop - this option is considered optimal.
The photo shows a double sink with a wing
The mixer deserves special attention. The taps are placed in such a way that all family members can reach them. The color and style of the faucet depends on the style and color scheme of the interior - for classics there is bronze with wings, for high-tech there is shiny chrome with a rotary handle. There are not only metallic shades: matte black is acceptable in loft, and snow-white in scandi.
The photo shows a design option for a small kitchen
There are only two opinions on the topic of a wet zone in the corner: some consider this method convenient, others consider it not ergonomic. The difference between the first and second is only in how the kitchen is equipped.
Corner kitchen options
When choosing the type of layout, it is imperative to take into account all the features of the room, including its dimensions.
A universal option is to place the headset along two walls that are perpendicular to each other. In fact, this is a classic version of a corner kitchen, so it will fit perfectly into most rooms. It will also allow you to arrange equipment and modules to your liking.
Photo from source: pinterest.ru
A corner kitchen set, complemented by a bar counter, turns into a “U”-shaped or “F”-shaped set. In the case of the second option, the tabletop is installed in the center of the set. This looks great in kitchens that have a fairly large area.
Photo from source: pinterest.ru
Two-level kitchen sets
To accommodate all the accessories necessary for the kitchen, you can install two-level corner sets. When thinking through such a layout, be sure to look at the furniture arrangement diagram. The selection of headsets of the second tier is made taking into account:
- their functional characteristics;
- dimensions;
- materials used;
- design features.
Several light sources Source designadvice.ru
The most important point when designing such a corner kitchen is determining the height of the work surfaces. In this case, not only the height of the walls is taken into account, but also the height of the household. The most popular material for a two-level kitchen is MDF or chipboard.
Two-level kitchens with the letter L are made in different stylistic solutions:
- Provence (warmth and comfort of Mediterranean colors);
- classicism (complex device with subtle additions);
- militarism (compactness and simplicity).
U-shaped kitchen Source goldenplaza.com.ua
If there is not enough light in the kitchen with the letter L, it is advisable to make it in the following colors:
- apricot;
- vanilla;
- peach;
- light chocolate;
- pink.
When the windows of the room face the sunny side, the kitchen set of such a room can be:
- red;
- lemon yellow;
- jade;
- gray.
Design options Source dizayndoma.com
The choice of a corner pattern when installing a headset with the letter L is prepared from the center, systematically moving to the walls. The emphasis in the corner kitchen is on floor cabinets with wall cabinets. You can add such a room:
- hanging curtain rods with lighting;
- bar counter;
- sections for built-in equipment;
- false boxes for communications;
- chrome roof rails.
Any of the stylistic trends can be decorated with notes of avant-garde or novelty, making it fashionable and modern.
Beige kitchen in minimalist style Source art-kuhni.com
What role does the bar counter play in a corner set?
The design of a corner kitchen in a modern style often involves the presence of a bar counter. Proof of the real benefit of having this element, first of all, will be the fact that it is capable of performing several functions simultaneously:
- become a continuation of the main tabletop, creating additional workspace;
Photo from source: theidentite.co
- a mini-alternative to the dining table - especially relevant in cases where the kitchen area is not enough to arrange a full-fledged dining area;
Photo from source: ivd.ru
- helps to effectively zone the room - if it is necessary to separate the kitchen and living room, work area and dining room;
Photo from source: projectsgallery.ru
- Helps provide additional storage space.
Photo from source: cantileverinteriors.com
The bar counter is an element that will look great in kitchens whose interior is decorated in any style.
Today, the kitchen furniture market offers a huge range of different sets that already have built-in bar counters. But even if the kitchen you like does not have a bar counter, you can always order its production separately. The main thing is to take into account wishes for configuration, size, as well as all the features of the kitchen space.
Photo gallery of ideas
A corner set for a small kitchen is the ideal solution to compactly organize your workspace, storage and dining area.
It will fit perfectly into an average-sized kitchen of about 12 square meters if the room has an ideal square or rectangular shape.
Corner layout can also be successful for spacious rooms, studio apartments and kitchen-living rooms. The large area allows for non-standard arrangement of furniture.
Modern style corner kitchen sink
The “L”-shaped kitchen layout, in which the sink is located in the corner, is very common. This is especially true if the corner kitchen is in an apartment in a Khrushchev-era building. If the angle is right, mini-model sinks in the shape of a circle, or rectangular ones with one or even two bowls, are suitable.
Photo from source: pinterest.ru
Selecting an internal corner
When placing a kitchen unit according to an L-shaped layout, the nature of the internal corner becomes important. It not only affects how the kitchen will look as a whole, but also directly affects your convenience while cooking and washing dishes.
There are 2 common options - and each has its own pros and cons.
Straight
- suitable for very small kitchens;
- provides more space inside for storing various accessories;
- You can place a dish drainer in the very corner, and move the bowl itself a little to the side.
At the same time, it makes access to the corner space a little more difficult, but this is one of those inconveniences that we usually talk about - minor. In any case, this does not interfere with washing dishes.
Beveled
- allows you to use the sink more conveniently;
- maximizes the use of room space;
- not recommended for kitchens with a total area of less than 10 square meters. meters.
This option is especially good if you do not lack free space. Due to its trapezoidal shape, it “conceals” a lot of square centimeters, so weigh the pros and cons if your heart lies with it: in order to avoid future disappointment from discomfort.
About arranging a ventilation ledge or duct when planning a corner kitchen
If the apartment is in a new building or in a standard house, then the angular location of the air duct is the norm, but the headset significantly complicates the process of creating a design project.
If the ventilation box is small, it is easy to bypass it. To achieve this, the depth of the floor cabinets is reduced.
If the box protrudes forward, then the most reasonable solution is to divide it into two parts.
Photo from source: mykaleidoscope.ru
Features of the corner tabletop
Make a headset in the corner just a work surface - why not? Here you can conveniently place a jug of water, a toaster, a table-top dish drainer, a microwave or a coffee maker - in general, small household appliances and necessary kitchen utensils.
Photo from source: tanjavanhoogdalem.nl
Placement of household appliances
Moving an outlet under a refrigerator to another location is quite simple, but agreeing on a project for moving a gas stove with all authorities is more difficult. Therefore, when arranging kitchen appliances, it is not always possible to adhere to the “ergonomic triangle” rule. There is no need to worry too much about this; it is much more important to follow other rules :
- All household appliances must be arranged in compliance with safety precautions . The stove should not be too close to the refrigerator or sink. It’s also not worth installing it under a window with curtains that could catch fire at any moment. It is also advisable to place hangers for napkins and kitchen towels away from the stove.
- The countertop area can be increased by relieving it of small household appliances. Depending on the frequency of use, they can be placed in hanging drawers or under the countertop.
- Particular attention should be paid to the selection and installation of the hood . Modern designers insist on its mandatory installation in any kitchen, but in fact this unit has a number of limitations. In order not to run into a fine from inspection authorities, before purchasing this device, you should carefully read the instructions for the specific model and installation requirements. Thus, most models are incompatible with a gas boiler or water heater, have restrictions on installation on certain floors, etc.
- It is better to install the refrigerator either separately from the work surface , or to allocate a place for it on one of the edges of the countertop. It is not worth dividing the work surface with such a voluminous unit.
When placing equipment, it is also worth taking into account the individual characteristics of the kitchen, or rather the location of communications. By definition, a dishwasher or washing machine is placed next to the sink, since this equipment requires connection to water and sewer pipes.
Electric stoves and ovens need sockets with grounding and appropriate voltage, and gas water heaters and boilers must be installed in strict accordance with the project.
The easiest way before choosing appliances and kitchen is to draw a schematic representation of the room indicating all the sizes and communication exit points. Such a drawing will facilitate the process of finding optimal solutions.
Neoclassical
Modern style, which is an interesting mix of timeless classics and trendy modern elements. This is a very practical design that prefers the use of natural materials or their high-quality imitations. For example, the most suitable “marble” or “wood” countertop can always be found in the catalog of the Kedr factory.
Photo from source: polinov.ru Tabletop Cedar 2337/S Beige marble
Provence
“Province” is how the name of this style is translated from French. But such a “rustic” designation does not prevent it from being sophisticated and modern. Simplicity and naturalness are the qualities that attract the most in Provence style interiors. If we touch on the topic of choosing a palette, then light shades are a priority. Also among the characteristic features of the style are the presence of floral patterns in textiles, ornaments, ceramic dishes, as well as the effect of an aged surface on furniture.
Photo from source: housebeautiful.com
Table top Cedar 920/1 Milanese marble
Modern style
If we list the most practical interior design styles, then modern will probably take first place. After all, there is nothing superfluous here. All lines and shapes are clear and strict. Among the features of corner kitchens in a modern style are:
— the presence of a variety of hidden, but no less spacious lockers;
— use of built-in equipment;
- a restrained palette.
Finishes that imitate natural stone are also very popular here. Such materials can be used literally in everything: when finishing walls, floors, kitchen aprons, countertops. High-quality examples of the latter are available in the catalog of countertops from the Kedr factory.
Photo from source: pinterest.ru Tabletop Cedar 3027/S White granite
Loft
This is a very original brutal modern style filled with industrial elements. Here you can see a lot of rather rough-looking surfaces and interesting textures - walls with exposed brickwork, like untreated wood surfaces, concrete, uncoated chipboard sheets, plaster, etc. The surfaces are usually matte, the lines are strict.
Photo from source: designwiki.ru Tabletop Cedar 5141/Mn Moon
Work triangle
The most convenient layout is considered to be the one that complies with the rules of ergonomics. It is the corner kitchen that allows them to best suit them by using a working triangle.
Its tops are the sink, hob and refrigerator. According to this principle, it is desirable to arrange these sectors in the form of an isosceles triangle. The order of elements is based on the cooking sequence.
This means that first the products are taken out of the refrigerator, then they are washed, and then they are prepared and heat treated. Due to this, cooking time is reduced, as the movements of the cook are minimized.
Corner kitchen in modern design: about trends
First of all, let's touch on the most important question: what angle to make - beveled or straight?
Yes, a beveled one will provide the best access to the contents of the cabinet, but today it is corner kitchens with right angles that are in trend. And this solution also has advantages - such modules will take up less space than trapezoidal ones, so they can be used even in the smallest kitchens. And the issue of access to content can be easily resolved by using “smart” accessories.
Photo from source: homify.ru
Reducing the countertop on one side by 10-15 centimeters is a trend and also a trick that will free up more space in the kitchen.
Photo from source: ivd.ru
Creating a peninsula or bar counter will help create an additional work area and zone the space.
Photo from source: mykaleidoscope.ru
Choosing tall, narrow modules will help make the ceilings appear higher.
Photo from source: 3ddd.ru Ergonomics
Filling the corner space
The biggest problem when developing a corner kitchen project is precisely the “corner”.
It is impossible to place a refrigerator, pencil case, oven or washing machine there; the doors will not open. Place it diagonally - useful area is lost. Installing a hob is inconvenient to work with “distant” burners.
In the end there are only two options left:
- Leave a corner empty (just a countertop and cabinets below), but in this case, all sorts of little-used junk tends to accumulate in the unoccupied space.
- Place a sink in the corner.
That is why the design of such sets most often assumes the presence of a sink in the corner of the countertop. There are several basic rules for choosing and installing a sink.
