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G-Shaped Kitchen Layout: 25 Design Tips + Tricks

By: Andrew Saladino | 11 min

G-shaped kitchen with wood base cabinets and white countertops.

If you're familiar with a U-shaped kitchen layout, simply envision another leg or peninsula added on for a G-shaped kitchen layout. This layout has four sides and resembles the capital letter "G" in its cabinet and countertop configuration.

If you love to cook and invite others to join you in the kitchen, a G-shaped kitchen offers the functionality and space to do so. Since the countertop wraps around the center of the kitchen, the continuous flow of countertop space allows for greater efficiency when cooking. The extra space is great for entertaining, a breakfast bar, or additional kitchen cabinet storage.

Thinking about remodeling your kitchen to follow a G-shaped design? You might be interested in replacing your old cabinetry, as well. If so, check out our extensive selection of ready-to-assemble kitchen cabinets.

Small G-Shaped Kitchen   |   Medium G-Shaped Kitchen   |   Large G-Shaped Kitchen   |   G-Shaped Kitchen with Island

Designing a G-Shaped Kitchen Layout

G-shaped kitchens offer the most cabinet and storage space compared to other types of kitchen layouts, but you'll need a minimum of 10 feet by 10 feet floor plan to keep your space functional. Otherwise, your kitchen will likely be too cramped for even one person to work efficiently.

The G-shaped kitchen works best in medium to large spaces with an open layout so you can easily expand into the adjacent living or dining room. Keep in mind that the extra leg or peninsula should be around 4 feet wide and not too long that you'd have to shuffle around it to enter the kitchen.

When deciding where to install your major kitchen appliances, it's helpful to plan for a functional work triangle with your refrigerator, stove, and sink located on opposite sides and reasonably close together. This allows you to navigate between food prep, cooking, and cleaning with ease, providing enough space between them without overcrowding.

Below are our tips for how to design a G-shaped kitchen layout with various kitchen sizes and configuration ideas to keep in mind.

Small G-Shaped Kitchen

Small g-shaped kitchen with text: A g-shaped layout offers maximum storage and counter space for a small kitchen.

If you're working with a 10-by-10-foot kitchen layout — which is actually considered the standard kitchen size — you'll be able to design a small G-shaped kitchen. This is especially efficient if you don't have room in your home for a separate dining area. You can use your peninsula as an integrated breakfast bar without squeezing a bulky dining table into your design.

The layout of your G-shaped kitchen will largely depend on whether you want a diagonal or straight entry into your kitchen. One of the main drawbacks of G-shaped kitchens is they do limit access to the main kitchen area. Avoid cutting off your workspace by leaving at least 36 inches for the width of the entryway. Keep your work aisles around 41 to 48 inches wide so you can easily maneuver between work areas.

Small G-Shaped Kitchen
Diagram of work triangle in small g-shaped kitchen layout.

Design Tips for Small G-Shaped Kitchens

Like all small kitchen layouts, you'll need to carefully consider how appliances, prep areas, the sink, and cabinets will be laid out to maximize every square inch of space. Here are a few suggestions from our designers on how to get the most out of a small G-shaped kitchen layout.

  • Add a dual-purpose peninsula: Your kitchen peninsula can serve as a breakfast bar, storage space, and/or cooking area. Install shallow cabinets and drawers on the inside of your peninsula to store eating utensils and small appliances, or place your stovetop facing the eating area so you can entertain and cook simultaneously.
  • Get crafty with storage: One major qualm with G-shaped kitchens are their abundant supply of corner cabinets. To make use of these tight, awkward spaces, try installing lazy Susans or pull-out shelves so you'll have easy access to your kitchen essentials.
  • Install floor-to-ceiling cabinets: Against the wall adjacent to the kitchen peninsula, place tall cabinets for added storage space. You can even integrate your oven and refrigerator directly into the cabinetry for a seamless design that'll help your kitchen appear larger.
  • Restrict wall cabinets: Wrapping three sides of your tiny kitchen with wall cabinets is bound to overwhelm your design. Keep wall cabinets contained to two sides of your kitchen. We suggest leaving the space above your peninsula and kitchen sink open.
  • Use open shelving: If your small G-shaped kitchen floor plan is feeling a little boxed in, add some depth with open shelving. Not only is open shelving incredibly popular with modern kitchen design, but it also gives you the opportunity to display your favorite cookbooks, vases, and cookware.
  • Choose light, neutral colors for your cabinets: Cabinets dominate G-shaped kitchen layouts, so we suggest choosing a neutral kitchen cabinet color to keep the space feeling open and bright. You can even maximize light in your small kitchen by choosing reflective paints or finishes, such as lacquer.
  • Keep cabinetry simple: Cabinets featuring clean, minimal lines likeclassic shaker cabinets or modern slab cabinets pair nicely with small spaces. To create an even more streamlined design, pair your cabinets with sleek, modern knobs and pulls or do away with the hardware altogether.

Medium G-Shaped Kitchen

Medium g-shaped kitchen with text: A g-shaped layout in a medium kitchen provides the space for two or more cooks to fit comfortably.

A medium-sized kitchen — one that is at least 12 feet by 12 feet — offers you a bit more flexibility when constructing your G-shaped layout. We suggest lining the longest side of the "G" along the wall and having the rest of the kitchen extend out toward the living area. Maintain a functional work triangle with the refrigerator, stove, and sink on opposite sides of the "G,'}}" while leaving the peninsula exclusively for dining and lower cabinet storage.

Medium G-Shaped Kitchen
Diagram of work triangle in medium g-shaped kitchen layout.

Design Tips for Medium G-Shaped Kitchens

A medium G-shaped kitchen will benefit from many of the design tips we suggested for smaller kitchens, such as opting for clever storage solutions and restricting wall cabinets. However, a larger space means more freedom to experiment with colors, patterns, textures, and shapes without overwhelming the design.

  • Create interest with a bold backsplash: Colored subway tiles, Moroccan designs, and interesting shapes like hexagon tiles will help make your backsplash a focal point of your kitchen. Keep other design elements simple if you choose to make a statement with your backsplash.
  • Add ample lighting: A single primary light in the center of your kitchen may not be enough to illuminate a larger space. Under-cabinet lighting, recessed lighting, or pendant lights hung above your peninsula will add much-needed task lighting for food preparation and dining.
  • Go bold with paint: Add some contrast to your color palette by choosing a bright, rich color like red or orange for a kitchen accent wall. Vivid swatches of color are in vogue, especially with modern and Mid-Century kitchen designs. Just be sure to keep cabinets and countertops neutral to avoid clashing colors.
  • Combine elements: Natural wood countertops paired with glossy white cabinets or vice versa create a cozy kitchen that still looks high-end. You could also add in mixed metals for your light fixtures, appliances, and backsplash for a kitchen design that pulls from all the natural elements.
  • Have your prep area extend beyond the peninsula: Your kitchen doesn't have to stop where your peninsula starts. If you're working with a narrow space, line the entire length of your longest wall with cabinets and countertop space. You'll have all the work area you need without infringing on your living area.
  • Elevate your eating area: Emphasize your dining area by creating a raised tier on the outside of your kitchen peninsula. Your guests will be able to enjoy a pre-meal drink or appetizer at your breakfast bar without having to dodge stray splashes and splatters while you cook.
  • Try two-tone cabinets: One of the best ways to elevate your kitchen design is to incorporate two-tone cabinets. Paint your lower cabinets a darker color like navy blue or forest green while keeping your wall cabinets light to help ground your kitchen and create visual interest. You can also choose to mix in natural wood cabinets to introduce an earthy element to your kitchen.

Large G-Shaped Kitchen

Large g-shaped kitchen with text: A g-shaped layout works best in a large open kitchen with a peninsula for serving or entertaining.

Large, open-concept spaces are where G-shaped kitchens truly shine. The four-sided design allows for a distinct separation between the living and kitchen area and helps a large space feel more functional and compact.

With a large layout, utilize a 45-degree angle for a more comfortable workflow by placing your refrigerator in the corner. You'll have ample counter space on the opposite side of the kitchen along the walls to fit multiple cooks. Keep in mind this angle will only cramp a smaller space, so it works best if you have an open room to extend into.

Large G-Shaped Kitchen
Diagram of work triangle in large g-shaped kitchen layout.

Design Tips for Large G-Shaped Kitchens

More space means more opportunities to play with the overall layout and shape of your G-shaped kitchen. Don't be afraid to stray from the traditional three-walls-plus-peninsula floor plan — in the case of a very large area, this design might actually hamper efficiency. Here are a few alternatives to consider when designing your large G-shaped kitchen.

  • Pull cabinets away from the walls: If space allows, keep your work triangle compact while simultaneously increasing seating space and walkways by pulling two or three (or all four) sides of your kitchen away from the wall.
  • Opt for curves instead of edges: Curving the edges and sharp corners of your kitchen is a modern design trick that will enhance the flow of your kitchen with ergonomic and aesthetically pleasing shapes.
  • Add angled counters: If you're concerned about the wide expanse between your countertops, experiment with the shape of your peninsula. A peninsula angled at 45 degrees can help the space feel cozier and provide ever more workspace.
  • Treat yourself: If you have the space, why not use it for something you enjoy? If you're an avid coffee drinker, integrate a coffee bar into your layout. Or, opt for a luxury appliance like a wine fridge or double ovens for easy entertaining.
  • Create a tabletop peninsula: Removing some or all of the base cupboards from the peninsula allows for more leg room and makes your kitchen appear more open to the rest of the living area. Plus, the sacrificed storage won't be as much of a loss in a large G-shaped kitchen.
  • Trade bar stools for banquette seating: If you have a large, open-concept floor plan, create a cozy, space-saving seating area by installing banquette-style seating directly to the back of your peninsula and along the adjacent wall. You'll be able to entertain even more guests without having to leave your kitchen.

G-Shaped Kitchen With Island

Large g-shaped kitchen with island with text: A g-shaped layout in a large kitchen opens up the possibility of adding an island for extra workspace.

If your space is large enough, you may be able to incorporate a kitchen island in the center of your G-shaped layout. A kitchen island allows for even more prep space — ideal for multiple chefs to work comfortably in the kitchen.

In order to fit an island in the center of a G-shaped kitchen, you will need at least 8 feet between the far countertops. The kitchen island should have 3-to-4-feet wide aisles on either side to keep the layout from feeling cramped. You have the option to add an appliance to the island or use it as a seating or prep area to give you even more counter space.

G-Shaped Kitchen With Island
Diagram of work triangle in g-shaped kitchen layout with island.

Design Tips for U-Shaped Kitchens With Islands

A kitchen island is a great versatile design element perfect for food prep, entertaining, or additional sinks or cooktops. In addition to their functionality, they can also serve as an impressive statement piece in your overall design. Check out these tips for styling your island in a G-shaped kitchen:

  • Create contrast with different countertop materials: Bring attention to your kitchen island by opting for different countertop materials. For example, if you choose white stone countertops for your main counters, natural wood counters for your island will draw the eye there without clashing with the rest of the space.
  • Add statement lighting: With a kitchen island positioned right in the center of your kitchen, add even more drama with striking pendant lights. Not only do they look incredibly sleek, but the added lighting will illuminate the island as you cook and entertain.
  • Maximize floor space: Worried about tripping on bar stools while you cook? Remove the base cabinets from one side of your kitchen island so you can tuck chairs away when not in use.
  • Install a cooktop: Make a show out of cooking by installing your cooktop opposite the dining area on your kitchen island. Guests will be awestruck by your culinary talent before enjoying a meal hot off the stove, although you may want to keep cooking and dining areas separate if you're not the neatest cook.
  • Make it pop: Kitchen islands can add flair to any kitchen design when painted in eye-catching colors or adorned in mosaic tiles or Moroccan designs. Islands present a great opportunity to let some personality shine through!

Pros and Cons of G-Shaped Kitchens

G-shaped kitchen layouts offer unparalleled work, storage, and entertainment space, but this complex floor plan might not be for everyone. Before you start designing your new kitchen, it's important to know the advantages and disadvantages of G-shaped kitchens.

Pros of G-shaped Kitchens

If you're a serious home chef or dedicated host or hostess, you might be drawn to a G-shaped layout. The benefits of G-shaped kitchen layouts include:

  • Unrivaled flexibility: With four sides to work with, G-shaped kitchens offer plenty of storage options and possible work triangles. You'll be able to design a kitchen customized to your exact needs, whether you need more wall cabinets to store all your baking supplies, a double oven for family holidays, or a long peninsula perfect for entertaining.
  • Open or closed concept: The fourth side of a G-shaped kitchen offers homeowners the opportunity to raise the kitchen wall to create more privacy or keep the peninsula open to the rest of the living area. This is just another example of the flexibility this layout provides.
  • More base cabinets: This kitchen layout gives you additional space for more base cabinets or under-counter appliances, like a wine fridge or dishwasher.
  • Integrated eating area: If you choose to leave your peninsula open, you can place chairs on the outside to create a breakfast bar. Even if you're cooking for one, the peninsula will provide ample room for food preparation.

Cons of G-shaped Kitchens

G-shaped kitchens might have all the storage and counter space you could ever need, but this layout isn't the most convenient for everyone. You may want to reconsider a G-shaped layout for these reasons:

  • Not suitable for small spaces: G-shaped kitchens require room for base cabinets on four sides of your kitchen, plus room for the entrance and walkways. If your kitchen is less than 10 feet by 10 feet, you should choose a different layout, such as a U- or L-shaped layout.
  • Complicated layout: If you're going for a minimalist kitchen design, a G-shaped kitchen probably isn't for you. While a large family or aspiring chef will appreciate the extra cabinet and countertop room, they may just be a waste of floor space if you'd prefer to keep things simple.
  • Multiple corner base cabinets: Storing pots and pans in corner cabinets is difficult and awkward, but unfortunately may be necessary in a G-shaped kitchen. You can make these cabinets more usable with storage solutions like pull-outs or lazy Susans, but those can be costly and still less efficient than storage in an unrestrained cupboard.
  • Restricted kitchen area: One of the biggest challenges with G-shaped kitchen layouts is ensuring proper access to the kitchen work area. You may have to settle for a shorter peninsula in exchange for a wider entrance.

More G-Shaped Kitchen Inspiration

A g-shaped kitchen with dark cabinetry.

U-Shaped Kitchen FAQs

Still wondering whether a G-shaped kitchen layout will work best in your space? We answered some of the most frequently asked questions to help you decide.

What is a G-shaped kitchen layout?

A G-shaped kitchen, also known as a peninsula kitchen, extends the popular U-shaped kitchen by adding a fourth side to the layout, resembling the letter "G." This additional side is typically a peninsula that serves as an integrated eating area or breakfast bar.

G-shaped kitchens work well with large, open floor plans, although they can be added to single-use rooms as long as the space is at least 10 feet by 10 feet. This layout maximizes countertop and storage space and is a great option for homes with multiple cooks.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of a G-shaped kitchen?

G-shaped kitchens are beneficial to homeowners who enjoy cooking and entertaining. With four sides of counters and cabinet space, this layout maximizes work areas and storage.

However, these kitchens may not be quite as functional if you're working with a smaller space. The four sides may interrupt traffic flow and cause tiny kitchens to feel cramped and inefficient.

How much space do I need for a G-shaped kitchen?

You need a minimum of 10 feet by 10 feet to create a functional G-shaped kitchen layout in your home. Otherwise, the four sides of the G shape may take up too much floor space, causing your kitchen to feel tight and difficult to work in.

Is a G-shaped kitchen layout functional?

The extra counter space and flow of G-shaped kitchens make them exceptionally functional for those who like to cook and entertain in their kitchen. Guests can sit on the other side of the peninsula and socialize while you cook without taking up valuable cooking space.

G-shaped kitchens provide ample storage space, are roomy enough for two or more cooks, and feature an added peninsula for guest seating. If you're ready to create the G-shaped kitchen of your dreams, Kitchen Cabinet Kings can help. Browse our sample layouts, find your favorite cabinets, and let our kitchen designers handle the rest. We'll show you how great a G-shaped kitchen layout can look in your space at home!

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