Breaking kitchen layout myths

An insightful article on Livingetc (“9 Kitchen Layout Myths Designers Say You Can Sometimes Actually Ignore”) challenges the long-held “rules” of kitchen design for modern living.
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Rather than strictly adhering to conventions such as the working triangle, always putting a sink under a window, or embedding an island regardless of space, the article argues that kitchens should be shaped by how you actually live in them,  your movement, your storage needs, your entertaining habits, rather than by rigid formulas.

Key themes include:

  • The classic work triangle (oven-sink-fridge) is no longer a must-follow; many designers favour flexible zones instead.

  • Sinks under windows are common but not mandatory; they can be placed elsewhere if it improves the flow or social aspect of the space.

  • Wall-to-wall upper cabinets aren’t essential; mixing in open shelving or fewer units can lighten the feel and enhance design.

  • Kitchen islands are popular but not universally appropriate; in many smaller or unusual spaces a peninsula, freestanding table or other layout can serve better.

  • Symmetry in design is aesthetically pleasing but often less interesting than a carefully-planned asymmetry geared to the way the space is used.

  • Corners, large footprints and islands are not always indicators of a better kitchen; thoughtful design, appropriate zoning and clever storage matter more than size.

Matthew Andrews, Head of Design at sister-company Cor Domi, says:
“We often place sinks in islands for social interaction, or where plumbing allows better efficiency even without a window view. Perfect symmetry isn’t always practical or visually interesting…We often lean into intentional asymmetry to create a more dynamic, lived-in look.”

At Project London, when we advise clients or create custom kitchen interiors (drawing on our sister-company Cor Domi’s expertise and craftsmanship), our design approach aligns precisely with these updated principles. We emphasise lifestyle-driven layouts, smart storage, fluid zones and thoughtful proportion rather than rigid adherence to outdated “rules”. If you’d like a deeper dive into these layout ideas, or would like us to apply them to a future kitchen brief (including Cor Domi custom joinery), let’s chat.

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