One of the most popular planning solutions is corner kitchen units. They combine ergonomics, convenience and efficient use of space.
Corner kitchen: design and its features
Corner kitchens, photos of which are presented in a wide variety in various design print and online publications, are one of the most universal solutions, as they have a unique property - they can fit into a room of any size, the interior of which is decorated in any style. This property is especially attractive for arranging mini-kitchens.
If we consider the options for corner kitchens, we can distinguish their three main components: one is located in the corner, and two are located on the side of it.
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Tabletop Cedar 1110/S White
Refrigerator placement
A familiar refrigerator, standing alone in the kitchen, is a spacious and relatively budget option. But it requires a lot of space. The standard size of the refrigerator is 59 cm, to which technological clearances for air circulation should be added. The built-in version takes up exactly 60 cm.
In addition, a free-standing refrigerator breaks the lines of the corner layout of the room and does not fit into the interior of the room.
A corner kitchen with a refrigerator will look harmonious if you provide it with a separate niche with gaps, decorated in the same style. The second successful solution would be a built-in refrigerator.
Corner kitchen project: where to start?
The central part is where you should start when planning a corner kitchen unit. And after that, expand it to the required length.
The main elements of the kitchen are the upper and lower modules.
But additional ones include:
- false boxes, in which, as a rule, all communications necessary in the kitchen are hidden;
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Table top Cedar 3852/P Corsica Oak
- bar counter;
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— chrome roof rails;
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— cornices equipped with additional lighting;
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Table top Cedar 759/1 Black bronze
— sections with built-in household appliances.
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About the advantages of a corner kitchen and its design
So what are the advantages of a corner kitchen design? You always want to talk about good things as much as possible, so let’s expand on this question:
• functionality - in such rooms, as a rule, corner sofas are placed. They are small, but they give the kitchen maximum comfort. This is a great additional storage space, since under the seat of the sofa you can hide the most rarely used items;
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• compactness - they do not take up much space, but also help to use space efficiently;
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Tabletop Cedar 2073/Pw Light Oak
• the ability to create effective zoning by dividing the kitchen space into two zones.
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Tabletop Cedar 111/1 White
Tips for choosing furniture
The size of the room and the style of the interior play a huge role when choosing furniture. Therefore, some tips can help with choosing a configuration.
If the kitchen is small, then it is recommended to place the lower and upper cabinets on either side of the corner to provide maximum storage space.
If the room is spacious, then it is advisable to install the upper cabinets only on one side of the corner, and decorate the other side, for example, with paintings or hang shelves. The second option would be to use cabinets on the other side, which will contain built-in appliances.
Advice! In the latter option, cabinets should have blank fronts. This will imitate a wall, which will prevent the interior from becoming cluttered.
Even if the choice is a corner kitchen, this is not a reason to refuse a corner sofa. It can also fit into the interior, the main thing is to match the chosen design. In addition, it is not only more compact than a table with chairs, but can also provide additional storage space located under the seats.
For whom are corner kitchens most relevant?
• for owners of studio apartments or kitchen-dining/living rooms;
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Tabletop Cedar 7461/FL Redondo
• area less than ten square meters.
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If the area is still larger, the set is complemented by an island/peninsula, and additional cabinets are installed along the wall on the opposite side.
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Tabletop Cedar 4091/Q Damask steel
Photo gallery of ideas
A corner set for a small kitchen is the ideal solution to compactly organize your workspace, storage and dining area.
It will fit perfectly into an average-sized kitchen of about 12 square meters if the room has an ideal square or rectangular shape.
Corner layout can also be successful for spacious rooms, studio apartments and kitchen-living rooms. The large area allows for non-standard arrangement of furniture.
Tricks for arranging small corner kitchens
• reducing the depth of one of the sides of the tabletop by 10 - 15 cm - of course, in this case, the useful storage space is reduced, but there is more freedom of movement;
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• tabletop equipment under the window - when one side of the set is located along the wall with a window. This could also be a mini-tabletop or bar counter;
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• installing the peninsula so that one of its sides is along the wall, and the shorter side is across and not adjacent to the wall. Thus, freedom of access to the peninsula is provided on both sides at once. A bar counter/desk can be used as a peninsula. Firstly, it turns out very ergonomic. Secondly, it provides an excellent opportunity to zone the room;
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• creating narrower and taller headset modules than standard options - thanks to this technique, the ceiling height visually increases and the headset looks beautiful;
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• right angle - perhaps this is the best option if the room is small. After all, a trapezoidal angle will take up more space compared to a straight one.
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Decorating the corner of the work area
The angle in the working area can be made straight or beveled. Which one is more convenient?
A beveled corner is undoubtedly more convenient and practical, since there is no need to equip it with special roll-out sections.
In addition, there is more free space in front of furniture with a beveled corner, so it will be more convenient to use, for example, a corner sink or stove. And the cabinets themselves are much more spacious than usual.
But keep in mind that a beveled corner takes up more space, so it is not always suitable for small rooms.
Right angle. But for small, compact rooms, or a kitchen in a minimalist style, it is better to choose a right angle.
Modern manufacturers offer a wide selection of furniture specifically for this layout.
These can be special corner-shaped drawers, folding doors that provide access to both sides of the corner at once, or rotating mechanisms that facilitate access to the internal contents of this part of the cabinet.
Corner with a protrusion. Often in a kitchen room a corner is occupied by a ventilation shaft or a decorative protrusion.
In this case, there is no point in connecting the two sides of the corner furniture into a single whole, by hook or by crook. A more practical option: “break” the corner by placing the furniture so that it is adjacent to the walls of the ledge on both sides. Don't want the protrusion to be noticeable?
Select finishing materials to match the furniture facades. Another option is to cover the ledge with mirror tiles. Such a frame will make the corner visually more weightless, and the presence of mirrors will work to expand the space.
What can be placed in the corner? We have already said that a sink is often placed in the corner. However, recently they prefer to place the sink near the window, using the window sill.
You can place a stove in the corner, and use the upper part of the corner to mount the hood. However, the shape of the corner for such a layout should be beveled. An unusual option: place a refrigerator in the corner by choosing a corner model of this appliance.
If the corner is beveled, then you can equip a full-fledged pencil case here. And if the pencil case has open shelves, then it will perfectly accommodate a built-in oven, microwave and even a TV. It is better then to define the lower part to accommodate a cabinet with drawers.
For a right angle, the only option remains: there will be a worktop for the kitchen here.
However, if you rarely use this part of the table as a work area, then you can put some kind of household appliance in the corner: a coffee maker, microwave or toaster.
Are there any downsides to a corner kitchen layout?
A corner kitchen has not only advantages, but also disadvantages. Since we are honest with our readers, we will tell you about the disadvantages of the project in as much detail as about the advantages:
• if the drawers are open, they will prevent the doors on the side from opening. If you have to plan a corner kitchen, this point should definitely be thought out in advance;
• it is almost impossible to purchase such a set ready-made, so it is necessary to draw up a project for a personal order. Thus, more time is spent on order production; installation requires professional assemblers;
• if you plan to place a sink in the corner, in order to use the space with maximum benefit, you need to equip the corner cabinets from both the lower and upper rows with special fittings. For example, baskets/retractable shelves/multi-story carousel.
Main pros and cons
A corner stove is a convenient way to save space and make the kitchen environment comfortable and cozy. As a small summary, it is worth highlighting all the pros and cons of this resolution.
There are many more positive aspects, so it’s worth starting with them:
- A stove located in the corner will make the kitchen space more comfortable and visually attractive, as many will associate it with a fireplace and stove.
- A large selection of solutions for planning the kitchen space with the ability to save space.
- The ability to use various design options that will make the kitchen a unique world.
- When organizing a beveled corner, it becomes possible to completely hide the ventilation ducts in it.
How to use a corner in a corner kitchen wisely?
Don't forget that a corner is also a valuable area that can be very useful as a place to store or display something. Among the techniques for effectively using this space, we list the following:
- installation of a rectangular set combined with a corner cabinet - this solution will create a visual impression that these are two different cabinets, but inside it will be a single space. This technique is practical and ergonomic;
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- placing built-in household appliances in the corner will give the kitchen unit the most neat appearance and make the corner functional;
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— installation of a corner cabinet equipped with a “carousel” inside, which greatly facilitates access to everything that is stored inside the cabinet and provides the maximum amount of free space;
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- appearance is something that should not be forgotten, even if the emphasis is on functionality - to make the kitchen space airy and light, the corner can be equipped with open shelves. In addition, this will help save a share of the budget spent on the manufacture of kitchen units and expand the free space;
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— "train" fastenings in cabinets - structures specifically designed so that during the process of opening the cabinet, the shelves are pulled out one after another. Thanks to this, there is unhindered access to all items stored in them. Even those that are in the far corners of the closet;
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— placing a hob or sink in a corner is one of the most useful options for its operation. Sinks with two bowls look especially interesting;
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— placing the dish dryer in the shape of the letter “L” will not present any difficulty and will provide easy access to the contents.
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Advantages
There are several big advantages in arranging a corner kitchen.
- Compactness - this arrangement is suitable for small spaces (odnushka, studio, Khrushchev), since it uses not only the surface of the walls, but also the corner, which can significantly increase the usable area. It can accommodate additional cabinets, small appliances, a hob, a drawer for household supplies or a trash can. To further save space, you can consider a kitchen design with a corner sink.
- Ergonomics - The L-shaped layout is ideal for organizing the work triangle of sink-refrigerator-stove. This term refers to the location of the main work areas so that they are located at the corners of an imaginary triangle. It allows you to move comfortably while cooking without taking extra steps. The optimal length of the sides is 1-1.2 meters.
- Spaciousness - the angle involved not only saves space, but also significantly increases storage possibilities. So, in the cabinets in the corner you can use rotating systems for storing dishes, and additional space will be provided by a mezzanine set under the ceiling - a whole tier will be added where you can store food, equipment or dishes that are not used every day.
- Convenience - An L-shaped set provides more opportunities for organizing space. The cooking space is allocated to a separate compact area, and in the remaining area it is easier to place a dining table and, if necessary, a soft group for relaxing.
- Versatility - suitable for any size room and looks appropriate in all styles.
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Corner kitchen options
When choosing the type of layout, it is imperative to take into account all the features of the room, including its dimensions.
A universal option is to place the headset along two walls that are perpendicular to each other. In fact, this is a classic version of a corner kitchen, so it will fit perfectly into most rooms. It will also allow you to arrange equipment and modules to your liking.
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A corner kitchen set, complemented by a bar counter, turns into a “U”-shaped or “F”-shaped set. In the case of the second option, the tabletop is installed in the center of the set. This looks great in kitchens that have a fairly large area.
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Color solutions
For a monochromatic kitchen, light beige or dark brown shades are suitable. This color suits most styles. Corner sets of these shades look especially good in small kitchens.
Successful color combinations:
- black and white;
- gray with orange;
- beige and gray;
- gray with wine;
- red with white;
- yellow with lilac.
The gamma can be not only monochromatic, it will add brightness to the design. For harmony, 2 shades are enough.
What role does the bar counter play in a corner set?
The design of a corner kitchen in a modern style often involves the presence of a bar counter. Proof of the real benefit of having this element, first of all, will be the fact that it is capable of performing several functions simultaneously:
- become a continuation of the main tabletop, creating additional workspace;
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- a mini-alternative to the dining table - especially relevant in cases where the kitchen area is not enough to arrange a full-fledged dining area;
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- helps to effectively zone the room - if it is necessary to separate the kitchen and living room, work area and dining room;
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- Helps provide additional storage space.
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The bar counter is an element that will look great in kitchens whose interior is decorated in any style.
Today, the kitchen furniture market offers a huge range of different sets that already have built-in bar counters. But even if the kitchen you like does not have a bar counter, you can always order its production separately. The main thing is to take into account wishes for configuration, size, as well as all the features of the kitchen space.
Several design ideas
- One of the most popular options for “L”-shaped kitchens is a sink in the corner. The advantage of this solution is obvious: during the work process, fewer unnecessary movements and movements are made. The angled countertops provide excellent access on both sides, making it easy to prepare and cut food and wash dishes.
However, there is one drawback - a visible joint in the corner or two joints on the sides in the “hottest” zone. In addition, the depth of the cabinet is 1 meter or more, which is not very convenient. Therefore, experts recommend moving the sink slightly away from the corner by installing a countertop in the corner or placing a wide sink wing.
- Under the sink there is usually a compartment with a trash can, a pump or a water filter. Experts advise adding vertical and narrow horizontal retractable storage systems - grids, drawers, panels for household chemicals, napkins, sponges, and other small items. Above the sink and next to it there are cabinets and organizers.
- Instead of a useless window sill, you can arrange a dining table, a worktop, or install a sink. The space under the window is also equipped with lockers.
- A bar counter is an excellent technique for zoning space. It replaces the dining table and serves as an additional work surface.
- Cabinets reaching to the ceiling are a sign of a modern, trendy kitchen. Beautiful appearance, tons of storage space in a small area. In addition, dirt and dust do not accumulate on the top covers.
- To prevent a freestanding refrigerator from looking alien, it is placed in a special niche with gaps for ventilation. Or buy a built-in model.
If you correctly use available stylistic and design solutions, even a small kitchen becomes comfortable, stylish, and unusual.
Modern style corner kitchen sink
The “L”-shaped kitchen layout, in which the sink is located in the corner, is very common. This is especially true if the corner kitchen is in an apartment in a Khrushchev-era building. If the angle is right, mini-model sinks in the shape of a circle, or rectangular ones with one or even two bowls, are suitable.
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About arranging a ventilation ledge or duct when planning a corner kitchen
If the apartment is in a new building or in a standard house, then the angular location of the air duct is the norm, but the headset significantly complicates the process of creating a design project.
If the ventilation box is small, it is easy to bypass it. To achieve this, the depth of the floor cabinets is reduced.
If the box protrudes forward, then the most reasonable solution is to divide it into two parts.
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Features of the corner tabletop
Make a headset in the corner just a work surface - why not? Here you can conveniently place a jug of water, a toaster, a table-top dish drainer, a microwave or a coffee maker - in general, small household appliances and necessary kitchen utensils.
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Dimensions
The main condition is the correct calculation of the space for the working and other important areas. There are compact modern corner kitchens, due to which you can distribute the maximum number of pieces of furniture in a limited space.
For small rooms, designers recommend ordering them according to individual parameters in order to compactly integrate household appliances.
Neoclassical
Modern style, which is an interesting mix of timeless classics and trendy modern elements. This is a very practical design that prefers the use of natural materials or their high-quality imitations. For example, the most suitable “marble” or “wood” countertop can always be found in the catalog of the Kedr factory.
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Table top Cedar 2337/S Beige marble
Apron
Such a decorative component as an apron plays an important role in terms of functionality and design. For a corner kitchen, a single apron for both sides is preferable. If it is made in bright colors or there are eye-catching designs and patterns, then you need to choose simpler and calmer furniture.
At the same time, if, on the contrary, the set is bright, decorated with carvings, original fittings, and decorated elements, then the apron should be unobtrusive, simple, most often monochromatic, with a calm tone.
Bright aprons, with decorative elements, and a choice of glass materials are preferred for modern styles. The classic style prefers restrained tones and natural materials, for example, wood and stone.
Provence
“Province” is how the name of this style is translated from French. But such a “rustic” designation does not prevent it from being sophisticated and modern. Simplicity and naturalness are the qualities that attract the most in Provence style interiors. If we touch on the topic of choosing a palette, then light shades are a priority. Also among the characteristic features of the style are the presence of floral patterns in textiles, ornaments, ceramic dishes, as well as the effect of an aged surface on furniture.
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Table top Cedar 920/1 Milanese marble
What finishing materials can be used
Now there is a large selection of tiles, not only square and rectangular. Such options are practically no longer used. You can create an unusual pattern of any shape, and it will look new. A rough tile surface is more preferable, since a glossy one requires more careful maintenance.
There are 2 main types of panels: wooden and plastic. The first one is suitable for a country house. Plastic ones are used for city apartments. If there is strong humidity in the kitchen, it is better to choose plastic, but it may not withstand high temperatures.
Plaster is the most versatile material. You can choose any shade and method of application that will suit the interior. Plaster can also imitate other materials. It does not need frequent cleaning.
Stone is a universal material; it looks solid and monumental. Decorative stone can be used in any interior. The range is mostly dim, but it looks expensive and elegant. It would be best to finish a small area with brick (for example, an apron), and the rest with plaster or other material.
On a note!
This solution is not suitable for everyone. But if you do everything correctly, you will get a cozy atmosphere not only for cooking, but also for relaxing.
Modern style
If we list the most practical interior design styles, then modern will probably take first place. After all, there is nothing superfluous here. All lines and shapes are clear and strict. Among the features of corner kitchens in a modern style are:
— the presence of a variety of hidden, but no less spacious lockers;
— use of built-in equipment;
- a restrained palette.
Finishes that imitate natural stone are also very popular here. Such materials can be used literally in everything: when finishing walls, floors, kitchen aprons, countertops. High-quality examples of the latter are available in the catalog of countertops from the Kedr factory.
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Tabletop Cedar 3027/S Granite white
Loft
This is a very original brutal modern style filled with industrial elements. Here you can see a lot of rather rough-looking surfaces and interesting textures - walls with exposed brickwork, like untreated wood surfaces, concrete, uncoated chipboard sheets, plaster, etc. The surfaces are usually matte, the lines are strict.
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Corner kitchen in modern design: about trends
First of all, let's touch on the most important question: what angle to make - beveled or straight?
Yes, a beveled one will provide the best access to the contents of the cabinet, but today it is corner kitchens with right angles that are in trend. And this solution also has advantages - such modules will take up less space than trapezoidal ones, so they can be used even in the smallest kitchens. And the issue of access to content can be easily resolved by using “smart” accessories.
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Reducing the countertop on one side by 10-15 centimeters is a trend and also a trick that will free up more space in the kitchen.
Photo from source: ivd.ru
Creating a peninsula or bar counter will help create an additional work area and zone the space.
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Choosing tall, narrow modules will help make the ceilings appear higher.
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Work triangle
The most convenient layout is considered to be the one that complies with the rules of ergonomics. It is the corner kitchen that allows them to best suit them by using a working triangle.
Its tops are the sink, hob and refrigerator. According to this principle, it is desirable to arrange these sectors in the form of an isosceles triangle. The order of elements is based on the cooking sequence.
This means that first the products are taken out of the refrigerator, then they are washed, and then they are prepared and heat treated. Due to this, cooking time is reduced, as the movements of the cook are minimized.
