Kitchen cabinet layout and design is an important consideration when remodeling or building a new kitchen. While symmetry can provide balance and visual appeal, it is not strictly necessary for functional kitchen cabinetry. There are many factors to weigh when deciding on cabinet configurations.
What is Symmetrical Cabinetry?
Symmetrical (or balanced) kitchen cabinets refers to having the same cabinetry design, size, and layout on both sides of a kitchen. This creates visual balance and coordination. Some examples include:
- Upper and lower cabinets on both sides are the same height and depth
- The same number and size of cabinets/drawers on each side
- Identical corner cabinetry and appliance layouts
- Matched sizes of sinks, windows, and doorways
Symmetrical cabinetry achieves the following benefits:
- Provides an orderly, elegant look
- Creates physical and visual balance
- Makes a space appear well-designed and intentional
- Allows for easy planning of storage needs
However, symmetry is not mandatory for a functional, storage-maximizing kitchen layout.
Factors to Consider for Kitchen Cabinet Layout
Several factors come into play when designing kitchen cabinetry:
Workflow and Triangles
The kitchen workflow triangle connecting the sink, refrigerator, and stove is a top priority. Optimal traffic flow and work zones take precedence over strict symmetry.
Room Shape and Windows
The existing shape and architectural details of the room may not allow for perfectly matched cabinetry. Angled walls, soffits, window placement, and doorways can challenge symmetry.
Storage Needs
Practical storage needs and frequently accessed items should guide cabinet configurations rather than achieving visual balance. Base cabinets with drawers are better for pots and pans while wall cabinets work for dishes.
Appliance Placement
Refrigerator, oven, and dishwasher locations will inform Placement of surrounding cabinets and counter space. Safety and functionality are key.
Mix of Cabinet Sizes
Varied cabinet widths and heights (such as a tall pantry cabinet) accommodate different storage needs. Mismatched sizes may suit the space better.
Budget
Working within budgetary constraints may necessitate asymmetry to cut costs on cabinetry. Allocating resources toward quality, durable materials for regularly used cabinets may take precedence.
Preference for Visual Interest
Asymmetrical designs, while still thoughtful, provide visual interest. Mixed cabinet styles, unconventional shapes, open shelving, and creative layouts express personal style.
Achieving Balance Without Strict Symmetry
Kitchens do not necessarily need meticulous symmetry to have cohesion. There are alternative ways to bring balanced style to asymmetrical cabinet layouts:
- Vary cabinet design but use consistent materials and finishings
- Repeat accents like hardware, molding, or feet
- Maintain same depth and height for uniform visual line
- Use same countertop material to unify
- Mirror window treatment styles if windows are asymmetrically placed
- Repeat decorative touches like corbels or trim details
- Use same paint color scheme throughout
Sample Asymmetrical Layouts
Here are some examples of thoughtfully designed asymmetrical kitchens:
Galley Kitchen
In narrow galley kitchens, it’s common to have asymmetry between the shorter and longer sides. Upper cabinets may only fit on one side. A tall pantry cabinet suits one side with a short appliance garage fitting the other.
Kitchen with Island
Islands naturally allow for asymmetry by limiting cabinets to only one wall. The other side features open and varied shelving flanking the range. Upper cabinets are only on one side.
U-Shaped Kitchen
In a U-shaped kitchen, a tall set of cabinets occupies one arm while a short set of drawers lines the other. But the layout still looks cohesive through repeated design elements like countertop material.
L-Shaped Kitchen
One leg of an L-shaped kitchen may have more limited cabinetry due to traffic flow or a doorway. But balance is achieved through consistent colors, finishes, hardware, and window treatments throughout the space.
In Conclusion
While symmetry can provide visual appeal and order, it is not strictly required for kitchen cabinet layouts. Practical storage needs, workflow, appliance placement, and room architecture all factor into achieving a functional kitchen. Balance and cohesiveness can still be attained in asymmetrical kitchens through repeated design elements and conscientious placement. The optimal kitchen combines both form and function.
Do Kitchen Cabinets Have to Be Symmetrical? – FAQ
Kitchen cabinet symmetry is a common question when designing a kitchen layout. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about symmetrical versus asymmetrical kitchen cabinets.
Are symmetrical kitchen cabinets better?
Not necessarily. Symmetry provides visual balance but asymmetry allows customization for storage needs, room shape, and budget. Well-planned asymmetry can be equally appealing.
What are the benefits of symmetrical cabinets?
Benefits include ease of planning, orderly look, sense of balance, intentional feel, and flexibility if remodeling in the future. It also simplifies choosing matching cabinet hardware.
What are drawbacks of symmetrical cabinets?
Limitations of room architecture, traffic flow concerns, budget constraints, and varied storage needs may necessitate asymmetry. Symmetry limits flexibility in these areas. Also, absolute symmetry can look sterile.
How important is the kitchen work triangle?
The optimal workflow between sink-fridge-stove is very important and should take precedence over cabinet symmetry. Make sure to allow proper clearance for appliances.
Should upper and lower cabinets match?
It’s not essential, but generally recommended to use matched sets of upper and lower cabinets on each side for symmetry. However, valances, soffits or other architecture may limit upper cabinetry.
Should corner cabinetry match?
If possible, matching corner cabinetry provides balance. But limitations like angled walls or differences in clearance may preclude identical corner cabinets. Prioritize function.
Can different cabinet styles be mixed?
Definitely. Mixing styles between upper and lower cabinets adds visual interest. Or use the same door style between uppers and lowers but mix finishes for accent.
How do you balance asymmetry?
Use consistent materials, hardware, molding, lighting and color schemes throughout the space. Repeat design elements like corbels, trim, or decorative feet on cabinets.
Is a symmetrical backsplash necessary?
No, asymmetry can work with a backsplash. Use same materials to tie it together. Balance patterned backsplash with plain cabinet fronts. Only do a partial backsplash.
Conclusion
While symmetry provides balance and elegance, asymmetry can deliver great kitchen design as well. Symmetrical cabinets are not an absolute requirement. Smart asymmetry allows customization for space and storage needs. Cohesion and harmony can be created through consistent materials and repeated design motifs. Keep room architecture, function and budget in mind when planning cabinet layouts.