The Kitchen Layout We're About To See Dominate 2026

When it comes to designing your perfect kitchen, layout is probably one of the top things on your list. Some kitchen layouts are more popular, like galley and L-shaped kitchens, while others come and go as trends change. What shape will work for your home often depends on a few factors — like the design of the rest of your home and the type of space you're looking for in your kitchen. If you take some time to talk to professional remodelers, you may hear some buzz about a particular type of kitchen layout that's picking up in popularity — the I-shaped kitchen. It's popular for a multitude of reasons — from being affordable to allowing for more open space in which to cook and entertain. This is one more great idea to keep in mind for your next kitchen remodel.

I-shaped kitchens, also called a one-wall or single-wall kitchen, are a design that suits both large and small homes, but is usually reserved for apartments and tiny houses. The design's versatility could be one of the reasons it's the talk of home makeovers. This contemporary aesthetic places your entire kitchen space along one wall, which is handy for a smooth-running area that accommodates more than a single cook — all while keeping the things you need easily accessible.

If you're thinking about converting your kitchen into an I-shaped layout, you may love that everything is up along one wall, including the kitchen cabinetry and appliances. People are digging this style because it's streamlined, sleek-looking, and uses space efficiently. This is also a minimalistic way to design your kitchen space, so if you're going for a less-is-more vibe in your home, this is a great way to get it. This design helps make a smaller kitchen look bigger, but it also opens up more space for a dining area if the room is large enough. With your stove, fridge, cupboards, and counter space all along that single wall, it's easier to move side to side to do what needs to be done, whether it's flipping the omelet or grabbing another egg from the fridge.

With fewer cupboards (because they're all confined to a single wall), you're forced to think more critically about the kitchen gadgets you invest in — you may not have room for a multitude of fancy air fryers, air poppers, and juicers. You'll shop with a clearer intent of what you need instead of buying things you don't need and cluttering up the space. If you're intrigued by the newly popular one-wall design, choose the perfect countertop color to go with it and make the space truly yours.