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How To Bring Out The Best Features In A One Wall Kitchen

By Simona Ganea | Published on

For some, a one-wall kitchen is nothing special, for others the concept is unusual. One-wall kitchens are generally encountered in small homes or efficiency apartments where floor space is very limited. By containing the kitchen space to a single wall section more space remains for other functions and features. This is very common when the kitchen is open and shares the room with the living or dining spaces. Of course, a one-wall kitchen can also be a valid option for large volumes too where this type of layout can maintain an open and spacious feel throughout the home.

A one-wall kitchen is not always small. It can be long, with plenty of counter space
A one-wall kitchen is not always small. It can be long, with plenty of counter space
One-wall kitchens have to include three main stations: the sink, stove/cooktop and counter
One-wall kitchens have to include three main stations: the sink, stove/cooktop and counter

In the case of a one-wall kitchen all the appliances, cabinets and countertops are gathered on one wall. This helps save floor space and also reduces construction costs since it’s often easier to design and build furniture this way. Of course, that has its disadvantages, mainly the fact that smaller appliances are preferred or that some don’t fit at all and compromises have to be made. Sometimes if space and general layout allow it, a one-wall kitchen can be accompanied by a separate island which adds more storage space and an extra counter. Kitchen tables serve a similar purpose.

The way in which the stations are distributed and combined depends on layout and individual preferences
The way in which the stations are distributed and combined depends on layout and individual preferences
This kitchen has an unusual way of separating the cooking station from the rest of the counter spaces
This kitchen has an unusual way of separating the cooking station from the rest of the counter spaces
A one-wall kitchen is sometimes preferred in the case of open spaces and can sometimes be complemented by a freestanding island
A one-wall kitchen is sometimes preferred in the case of open spaces and can sometimes be complemented by a freestanding island

Not everything about one-wall kitchens is bad. In fact, this is a pretty well-balanced layout, one which makes the most of small or open spaces, sometimes requiring very few compromises. An aspect that actually makes these kitchens very convenient is the fact that you can do all the prep work, cooking and cleaning in a single space without having to constantly move or turn around.

To maximize storage space in the case of a one-wall kitchen consider small, built-in appliances
To maximize storage space in the case of a one-wall kitchen consider small, built-in appliances
One of the disadvantages of one-wall kitchens is often the very limited prep/ counter space
One of the disadvantages of one-wall kitchens is often the very limited prep/ counter space
Add open shelves or shallow backsplash cubbies to maximize storage in a one-wall kitchen
Add open shelves or shallow backsplash cubbies to maximize storage in a one-wall kitchen
One-wall kitchens are not always furnished with a single modules which incorporates all the elements
One-wall kitchens are not always furnished with a single modules which incorporates all the elements
You can play with different counter heights and depths to customize your one-wall kitchen
You can play with different counter heights and depths to customize your one-wall kitchen
Highlight a wall one-wall kitchen with a funky backsplash and some accent lighting
Highlight a wall one-wall kitchen with a funky backsplash and some accent lighting
The dining table can act as an extension of your kitchen whenever you need more prep space
The dining table can act as an extension of your kitchen whenever you need more prep space
One-wall kitchens look very neat, airy and organized and that's a great detail, especially in a small home
One-wall kitchens look very neat, airy and organized and that’s a great detail, especially in a small home
Consider white subway tiles if you want to give your small kitchen a classy and timeless look
Consider white subway tiles if you want to give your small kitchen a classy and timeless look
There are all sorts of ways to make a one-wall kitchen work for you based on the particularities of your home's layout and style
There are all sorts of ways to make a one-wall kitchen work for you based on the particularities of your home’s layout and style