One Wall Kitchen Plans: Great Tips From an Expert Architect

If you’re working with limited space but still want a kitchen that’s both functional and stylish, the one-wall kitchen layout might just be your dream come true. This simple, streamlined design can fit neatly into even small spaces while offering everything you need for cooking, dining, and storing. Whether you’re living in a cozy apartment or designing a compact kitchen area in a house, a single wall kitchen can help you make the most of every square inch. And, that’s why we have an expert architect to guide you through this type of planned kitchen design.

What is a one wall kitchen layout?

View from above of kitchen white worktop and sink — By in-house architect Edna Ramírez

A single-wall kitchen (also called a single line kitchen) features all your major kitchen components — stove, refrigerator, sink, and cabinets (the kitchen work triangle) —along one wall. This makes it an excellent option when space is at a premium. It’s a well-planned kitchen design that aims to keep everything within easy reach while maintaining an open feel.

But just because it’s compact doesn’t mean you have to compromise on style or functionality. Many modern wall kitchen designs incorporate clever solutions for extra storage and workspaces, such as kitchen islands or open shelving. These additions can create a versatile cooking and dining experience, even in small spaces. The kitchen countertop typically is not less than 8 feet long. Therefore, it’s the ideal design for houses where there’s just a small space for the kitchen.

Advantages of a one wall kitchen layout

A one-wall kitchen maximizes counter space by keeping appliances and cabinets in a single line, with the option to add a kitchen island for extra prep space and storage. It smartly uses vertical room with wall cabinets and open shelving to keep things light and organized. If you have more room, a dining table or breakfast nook can transform the area into a multifunctional space. This layout is designed to fit any lifestyle, making it easy to stay organized whether cooking meals or grabbing snacks. In open floor plans, a kitchen island can also create a natural divide while adding functionality.

Ideal one wall kitchen design dimensions

And, even though one wall kitchen layout follows a straight run, there are multiple ways in which you can situate your kitchen appliances and accessories, even a kitchen island.

Typically, the minimum width-by-length dimensions are 5.91 feet x 9.84 feet. Such an arrangement leaves a minimum distance of 2.95 feet to 3.94 feet for movement in the kitchen, any kitchen furniture, or any access.

Depending on the spatial arrangement of the adjoining spaces, a dining table or other areas can be incorporated. The kitchen can be integrated with the other spaces — to create an open-concept kitchen.

Kitchen plan 1. A linear kitchen near an independent access

Kitchen linear design render with white tones — By in-house architect Edna Ramírez

In this kitchen design, Our architect, Edna Ramírez Molina, a specialist on urban design and landscaping recommends: “The cabinets can go all the way to the ceiling for good storage space. The ceiling height is 8.20 feet and the kitchen dimensions are 5.91 x 14.73 feet. Monochromatic colors can be used for variation.“

Expanding the color palette to three tones (white, gray, and dark wenge) is a good idea. That way, the kitchen station, and sink cabinet areas are enhanced and harmonize with the storage area.

Design idea 1

Herringbone wood floor render — By in-house architect Edna Ramírez

Quartz countertop as well as backsplash and herringbone wood floor.

Design idea 2

Worktop with wood texture — By in-house architect Edna Ramírez

The wall cabinets are melanin with wood texture, white in the kitchen area, and wenge color in food storage spaces. Ceramic floor and black tile countertops.

Design idea 3

Granite-countertops render — By in-house architect Edna Ramírez

Granite countertops and backsplash, herringbone wood floor in a medium and dark tone.

Kitchen plan 2. One wall kitchen layout with kitchen windows

Frontal kitchen design render — By in-house architect Edna Ramírez

This design is great for those who prefer more natural lighting in their cooking space. Here, there are two windows — one next to the sink and the other one on the kitchen wall.

Our architect recommends: “Place a window in front of the sink if you do not have a dishwasher. It offers the convenience of washing and drying utensils. The length-by-breadth kitchen dimensions are 5.90 x 14.93 feet, 8.20 feet in height.“

Design idea 1

High detailed kitchen design render — By in-house architect Edna Ramírez

Natural wood or lacquered cabinets (open or closed) to the ceiling, designed to fit the window. Medium and dark tone wood floor in contrast to the cabinets and white quartz countertop.

Design idea 2

Brown tones kitchen design render — By in-house architect Edna Ramírez

Pink wooden cabinets, backsplash, and floor in pastel tones for a contemporary look.

Design idea 3

View from above of a kitchen linear design render — By in-house architect Edna Ramírez

Wine colored cabinets with shades of gray in the wood texture to enhance the minimalist character of the design, white backsplash, and a two-tone hardwood floor.

Kitchen plan 3. One wall kitchen layout without direct access

Third design kitchen layout — By in-house architect Edna Ramírez

This type of kitchen is actually a space between several continuous ones. It could be connected with a corridor or the patio or the dining area. A word from our architect on this kitchen plan: “The idea is to showcase the continuous element while keeping the kitchen framed and structured. There’s ample natural light due to the height of the kitchen. Typical kitchen dimensions are 5.90 x15.82 feet, with 8.86 feet height.“

Design idea 1

Blue linear kitchen-design render — By in-house architect Edna Ramírez

Blue ribbed cabinets for a rustic look, contrasted with tile backsplash and countertops in cream, pastel tones. Light-colored wood floor.

Design idea 2

Green linear kitchen design render — By in-house architect Edna Ramírez

Two-toned pastel green cabinets, gray countertops, floor tile, and white backsplash give the kitchen space a vintage look.

Design idea 3

Red kitchen design render — By in-house architect Edna Ramírez

Red ribbed cabinets, white countertops, white backsplash, and gray and red contrast cabinets. Light-colored wood floor.

Last words

Although a one wall style kitchen is often found in smaller homes, apartments, and lofts, you can always choose the design for your home. All your kitchen cabinets, and appliances are aligned against one wall and that can save you a good amount of space. The proximity of the countertops, appliances, and sink makes this area efficient to work in and for food preparation. Moreover, it has extra space for easy movements of the cook.

One Wall Kitchen Layout: Great Tips From an Expert Architect was last modified: July 31st, 2025 by Ramona Sinha

Written by Ramona Sinha. December 21, 2020

Ramona is the Senior Content Writer for Kukun. This experienced blogger uses simple and succinct words to decipher the complex phenomenon called life. She has written articles covering a broad range of topics, such as real estate, lending and mortgage, finance, business, taxation, home designs, home improvement projects, decor concepts, and more. An avid traveler, she’s a digital nomad at heart and an animal lover from the depth of her soul.

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March 8, 2021 Log in to Reply
digital@mozaico.com
One wall kitchens always open the room for so much creativity with tiles, mosaics, colors and so much more. Thank you for sharing this insightful read!