It's one of the most efficient layouts to have in both small and open plan homes alike, and the easiest way to achieve the ergonomic triangle that is so often talked about in kitchen design – where your fridge, cooker and sink are all within easy reach of one another. They are comprised of countertops on three connecting sides, allowing plenty of room for cooking. U-shaped kitchens are an ultra-practical option. Placing these two important elements centrally within each run of units is the best approach, with the dishwasher on the sink side of the run and the refrigerator on the side of the hob.

'Although they tend to be quite small, they are very ergonomic spaces with everything usually within arms' reach – with, ideally, the sink one side and the hob on the other.' An ideal length would be 3.5 – 5m with space either side of the door opening to allow at least a standard depth countertop.

This super-efficient layout is ideal if you are looking for small kitchen ideas that maximize every inch of space.Īllison Lynch, of kitchen design company Roundhouse, says: 'A galley kitchen usually occupies a relatively small space – they are often a walkway between two rooms. They are ideal for keen cooks, and perfect for maximizing storage and work surface space in smaller kitchens.

Galley kitchens are one of the most space-efficient layouts you can choose.

12 x 10 kitchen layout