Elongated kitchens are very common in flats and homes in urban areas, and although at first glance they may seem like a headache to organise, with good planning they can be both beautiful and functional spaces.
In this article we are going to give you our interior designers' guide to creating the perfect layout to make the most of an elongated kitchen.
Types of layout for elongated kitchens
Depending on the space you have several options for furnishing an elongated kitchen, let's take a look at the advantages of each of them.
In-line or corridor kitchen (one wall)
This type of layout is perfect for small homes or very narrow spaces, as it concentrates all the elements of the kitchen in a single area. By having the sink, hob, worktop and appliances lined up, the result is a clean, minimalist design, which also creates a tidier visual sensation. However, you have to take great care to keep things tidy, as any object in the way breaks up the harmony of the kitchen.
To decorate and organise this space, you can make the most of one side with full-height units that provide vertical storage, while the rest should be in light colours and glossy finishes, as they help to visually widen the corridor. A continuous worktop without cuts reinforces the feeling of spaciousness and, so as not to overload, it is best to reserve open shelves only for strategic points. The combination of white furniture with light wood or subtle black details provides contrast and style without saturating the room.
Parallel or gallery kitchen
When space permits, the distribution in two opposite fronts is one of the most functional. It allows you to make better use of the surface area and organise the kitchen by zones: one side can be used for cooking and the sink, while the other is reserved for storage or a worktop. It is especially practical for those who enjoy cooking, as it offers a balanced work triangle and fluidity of movement.
In narrow kitchens, it is more balanced to place the upper units on one side only, thus avoiding the feeling of a tunnel. Keeping the worktop uncluttered is also key: grouping small appliances in a single area helps to free up space and allow the space to breathe. To improve functionality, linear lighting under the cabinets ensures a well-lit, shadow-free corridor. In addition, combining a light-coloured front with another in warmer tones, such as wood or a soft grey, adds dynamism without detracting from the spaciousness.
Elongated L-shaped kitchen
The L-shaped layout is a very comfortable and versatile option, as it provides a larger work surface and more freedom of movement. It adapts very well to spaces with an open end or with side windows, allowing you to make the most of natural light. In addition, the L shape helps to efficiently organise the work triangle and leaves one of the sides free, which makes it easier to incorporate a small office or a bar if it opens onto the living room.
In an L-shaped kitchen, it is ideal to place the main points of the work triangle (sink, hob and fridge) in the long section to make everyday life more comfortable. The short side can be used as a support surface or even as a small breakfast nook. Decoratively, it works very well to combine plain furniture with a tiled wall or a different wall covering on that side, as it adds character and personality to the whole. And if the kitchen opens onto the living room, that same short section can be transformed into a bar with stools to reinforce the connection and sociability between the spaces.
Kitchen with island or peninsula
In larger, elongated kitchens, the island or peninsula becomes the main feature. Not only does it provide a focal point of design, but it also offers extra work surface, storage space and the possibility of integrating a cooking area or even a breakfast bar. It is an ideal option for kitchens that open onto the living room, as it encourages interaction and turns the kitchen into a social space. It does, however, require a good study of the space so as not to hinder circulation.
When incorporating an island in the kitchen , it is important to leave at least 90 cm of space around it to ensure circulation and avoid blockages. If you also want to use it as an office, high wooden or metal stools give it a contemporary and functional feel. On the aesthetic side, differentiating the island with a different worktop (for example, white with veins as opposed to plain furniture) adds elegance and prominence to the whole. Focal pendant lighting over the island not only ensures practical light, but also becomes a key decorative element. And when space does not allow for a full island, a peninsula is the ideal alternative: it closes off the room without compromising on functionality.
How to get the most out of an elongated kitchen
Make the most of the height: vertical storage
In long kitchens every centimetre counts, which is why ceiling-high units are the best strategy for maximising storage capacity. Hinged units or units with assisted opening systems allow convenient access even in high areas.
Integrated appliances and continuous worktops
Paneled appliances (refrigerator, dishwasher, oven or microwave) unify the aesthetics and eliminate visual breaks. When combined with large-format worktops in quartz or porcelain, a clean and practical visual flow is achieved. This continuity not only adds design, but also facilitates cleaning and daily maintenance.
Workflow: apply the golden triangle
An efficient layout should respect the well-known work triangle between sink, cooking area and refrigerator. In long kitchens, it is recommended to maintain proportional distances and avoid unnecessary distances, always adapting the design to the user's needs.
Interior organisation of drawers and cupboards
The interior of the furniture is key in small spaces. Drawers with dividers, pull-out systems in corners, concealed modules and state-of-the-art fittings optimise space and improve accessibility.
Lighting for elongated kitchens: the key to comfort
General and elongated lighting: avoid shadows
Kitchens in corridor format tend to generate dark areas. To avoid them, it is recommended to install linear LED strips or recessed spotlights distributed along the ceiling. In this way, homogeneous lighting is achieved without disturbing shadows.
Lighting under wall units
It is essential to incorporate lighting under wall units to ensure proper visibility of the worktop. Recessed LED strips or LED strips with aluminium profiles provide direct light in the work area, increasing safety and comfort.
Pendant lights in passageways or dining areas
When space permits, pendant lights not only provide spot light, but also design and personality. They work especially well in breakfast bars or office areas, as long as the free height is sufficient so as not to obstruct the passage.
What colours to use in an elongated kitchen
Light colours for walls, fronts and ceilings
White, beige or light grey tones are perfect allies in narrow kitchens because they reflect natural light and widen the visual perception of the space.
Subtle contrasts for depth
Combining furniture in light tones with darker details or wood finishes helps to break the monotony and adds depth without overloading.
Flooring with horizontal lines or large tiles
Flooring with horizontally laid slats or large tiles makes the space feel wider than it really is.
Use of glass and glossy finishes
Reflective surfaces, lacquered fronts and glazed display cabinets enhance brightness and reinforce the feeling of spaciousness.
Extra ideas for decorating and furnishing long kitchens
Breakfast bars or cantilevered tables
Solutions such as breakfast bars integrated into the worktop or cantilevered tables allow you to make the most of corners without hindering circulation. They are ideal for quick breakfasts or for everyday use.
Kitchens open to the living room: a feeling of spaciousness
Opening the kitchen to the living room, eliminating partitions or incorporating sliding glass doors, multiplies the entry of light and creates a greater sense of continuity between spaces.
Natural materials for warmth
Wood, vegetable fibres or soft textiles are the perfect complement to counteract the rigidity of an elongated kitchen. Introduced in the right measure, they transmit comfort and a cosier feel.
In conclusion, the key is to analyse the available space and adapt it to your needs. A good layout, taking advantage of the height for storage, taking care of the lighting and choosing light colours are the pillars for transforming an elongated kitchen into a practical and aesthetic space.
If you want to create your proposal with the advice of expert designers, do not hesitate to contact us and we will show you how you can make the most of your long kitchen.
