What is a G-shaped kitchen layout?

Written by Andrew Updated on: Jun 12, 2025 Category The Kitchen Expert

Here’s our guide to the clever, space-maximising G-shaped layout – plus tips and ideas to help you make it work beautifully in your home.

You’ve heard of L-shaped and U-shaped kitchens – but what about G-shaped layouts? If you’re looking for more worktop space, extra storage, and a semi-enclosed feel, the G-shaped kitchen might be exactly what you need.

What exactly is a G-shaped kitchen?

A G-shaped kitchen is similar to a U-shaped kitchen, with three connected sides forming a horseshoe layout – but with one key difference: a fourth “arm” that extends into the space, forming a subtle ‘G’ shape. This additional arm is often a peninsula and offers valuable bonus worktop, storage, or seating. Sometimes called peninsula kitchens, G-shaped layouts are adaptable and work well in a wide range of spaces.

What are the advantages of a G-shaped kitchen layout?

There are plenty of reasons to love a G-shaped kitchen – especially if you’re a keen cook or part of a busy household. Key benefits include:

Functional and versatile – the layout supports a smooth workflow and efficient use of space
Maximises preparation and storage – more sides mean more surface and cabinet space
Ideal for seating – the peninsula is perfect for a breakfast bar or social hub
A smart alternative to an island – offers similar benefits with a smaller footprint
Helps define the space – a G-shaped kitchen creates a clear, cohesive kitchen zone, especially in open plan layouts

G-shaped kitchens - ideas and inspiration

With a G-shaped kitchen layout, you can customise your kitchen to suit the way you work, whether you’re looking for extra preparation and cooking space, enhanced storage options or a space to spend time with friends and family (or all of the above). Here are some ideas and inspiration for creating a G-shaped kitchen…

1) Create a practical kitchen that works for you

G-shaped kitchens offer flexibility for cooks, bakers, and entertainers alike. The layout naturally supports a kitchen work triangle, placing the sink, hob and fridge on three sides of the space for efficient movement. This leaves the peninsula area open for prepping, seating or serving. The four-sided shape also offers room for extra features like a coffee bar, wine fridge, or double oven.

2) Make the most of additional storage

One of the biggest wins with a G-shaped kitchen is storage. The layout gives you three full walls for cabinets and clever corner solutions, plus base units or open shelving along the peninsula. Incorporating smart storage features – like carousels or pull-out drawers – helps make every inch work harder.

3) Create a social space with a peninsula breakfast bar

If you like to cook while chatting with friends or family, the G-shaped layout is ideal. The peninsula doubles as a breakfast bar or casual dining area, letting you entertain without stepping away from the action. Add a row of stylish stools and you’ve got the perfect spot for guests to perch with a drink while you cook.

4) Define the kitchen zone

In open plan spaces with a zonal design, a G-shaped kitchen helps visually define the cooking area without fully closing it off. Overhead cabinets can make the space feel more enclosed and private, while keeping the peninsula open preserves sightlines and creates a sense of flow.

5) Make a statement with your G-shaped kitchen

This layout isn’t just practical – it can be seriously stylish, too. For a classic look, try warm wood worktops and Shaker-style cabinetry. Prefer something more contemporary? Go for handleless units, glossy finishes and clean lines.

Smaller kitchens benefit from light, neutral tones to open up the space, while a two-tone scheme – darker base units, lighter uppers – adds depth. Or go bold: a dramatic colour on the peninsula (think deep green or navy) can turn it into a striking focal point. Finish it off with pendant lights and bar stools that make it your own.

At Naked, we build beautiful bespoke kitchens for life. Find out more about creating your dream kitchen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why choose a G-shaped kitchen layout?

With their four-sided layout, G-shaped kitchens really make the most of the available space, offering plenty of practical worktop and cabinet space, with easy and comfortable access, and a dedicated seating area. A G-shaped layout can also create a stylish focal point and help to create a distinct kitchen zone within a larger open plan space.

Do I need a large kitchen to have a G-shaped layout?

Not at all - a G-shaped kitchen layout works particularly well in large or open plan spaces, but it can also help maximise worktop and storage space in a small or medium-sized kitchen, and it can be custom built to suit your space and your needs. As a general rule, a minimum room size of 10 feet x 10 feet is recommended to accommodate a G-shaped kitchen.