One-wall kitchen layout
All counter, appliances, and cabinets on a single wall. The smallest kitchen footprint; common in studios, lofts, ADUs, and tiny homes.
A one-wall kitchen places all appliances, cabinets, and counter on a single wall. The simplest kitchen layout possible; the smallest footprint. Common in studio apartments, lofts, accessory dwelling units (ADUs), and tiny homes where every square foot matters.
One-wall kitchens don't have a work triangle — they have a 'work line'. The cook walks back and forth along the wall during meal preparation. Efficiency is lower than triangular layouts but acceptable for small households and simple cooking.
In this guide
- 1
The basic layout
All appliances and counter on one wall. Standard configuration: refrigerator at one end, counter, sink in the middle, counter, stove at the other end. Optional pantry or storage column at one end. Wall length: 8-14 feet typical. Below 8 feet: too cramped. Above 14 feet: appliances too spread out for efficient work.
- 2
Adding an island makes it a galley
A one-wall kitchen with an island opposite it becomes effectively a galley layout. The island provides the second counter run, plus seating, plus prep space. Island parallel to the wall, 42+ inches away. The galley aisle width.
- 3
When one-wall wins
Studios and lofts where kitchen is open to living space. Tiny homes and ADUs. Auxiliary kitchens (basement, garage, in-law unit). Apartment renovations preserving existing layout.
- 4
Limitations
No work triangle. Walking back and forth along the wall is less efficient than triangular layouts. Limited counter space unless the wall is long. Less storage — single run of cabinets.
- 5
In Room Sketch 3D
Build cabinetry and appliances along one wall via the Furnish Panel → Kitchen tab. Verify the wall is long enough (8+ feet) for adequate appliances and counter.
Tips
14 feet is the sweet spot
Below 8 feet: cramped. 8-10: minimum. 10-14: comfortable. Above 14: inefficient (long walk between ends).
Add an island to expand it
Adding an island opposite turns the one-wall into a galley — major efficiency improvement.
Common confusions
One-wall in 16+ feet of wall
Above 14 feet, the cook walks too far. Convert to L-shape or add an island.
Frequently asked questions
What's a one-wall kitchen?
All counter, appliances, and cabinets along a single wall. Common in studios, lofts, tiny homes.
Does a one-wall kitchen have a work triangle?
No — it has a work line. The cook walks back and forth along the wall.
Can I add an island to a one-wall kitchen?
Yes — it then becomes a galley layout. Island parallel to the wall, 42+ inches away.
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