8×8 Kitchen Cabinet Layout Ideas For A Stylish & Functional Design

Designing an 8×8 kitchen can be challenging due to its compact space, luckily with the right cabinet layout it can become a stylish looking and functional space. Below we explore five different U-shape, L-shape, galley, one-wall and peninsula 8×8 kitchen cabinet layout ideas you can use to transform your small area into a stylish design.

8×8 L-Shaped Kitchen Layout

The L-shaped kitchen is one of the most efficient designs since it relies on using two adjoining walls that make an ideal work triangle, with an open area to facilitate movement.

Floor Plan Details: With its effective work triangle that flows from the refrigerator to the sink and range this design is built for ease of movement and accessibility. The open flow helps make the space feel larger and the combination of both lower and upper cabinetry help maximize the available storage space. To help enhance the available countertop space, one can consider using a mobile cart or small table that can be pushed to one side when not in use.

Why It Works: An L-shape design is perfectly optimized to blend usability with storage capacity while promoting an open feel that homeowners love.

Design Tips:

• Use an option portable cart or small table with a drop-leaf extension as an extra work surface.
• A size of 24″ to 36″ wide and 18″ to 24″ deep is recommended for the prep table.
• Match this table to the countertop height. (Typically 36″ high)
• Consider installing smaller upper cabinet units above the lowers to increase storage space.
• Aim for a minimum of 36″ between the refrigerator and the sink as a landing zone for groceries and meal prep.
• Make sure there is 12″ to 15″ of space on either sides of the range top.

8×8 Galley Kitchen Floor Plan

With its two parallel walls and center pathway this galley kitchen provides an efficient workflow that allow for easy access between the refrigerator, sink and range.

Floor Plan Details: Often found in smaller homes and apartments the traditional galley kitchen layout is functional and can allow for use by one or two people at a time. It has a central walkway measuring 4ft with cabinetry and countertops on both sides that allow for plenty of work surfaces for different meal prep and cleaning tasks. Often the refrigerator is placed near the entrance for easier accessibility and positioned somewhat near the sink for water access.

Why It Works: The setup uses two parallel countertops to make the most of the 8-foot width while keeping everything within easy-reach.

Design Tips:

• Range should be placed on the opposite side from the sink to ensure adequate counter space around each element.
• Minimum distance between the range and sink should be at least 4 ft.
• Do not place the range directly next to the refrigerator to prevent the heat from affecting its cooling system.
• It’s best to have countertop on both sides of the sink in the corner for better usability.
• Keep the aisle around 4ft wide, especially if you plan on having more than two people in the space at the same time.
• Ensure a minimum of 36″ between the sink and refrigerator to help prevent congestion.

8×8 Compact U-Shaped Kitchen Design

With three walls for cabinets, a U-shape design allows for the maximum amount of storage, counter space and an effective work triangle that enhances productivity.

Floor Plan Details: To fit a U-shaped kitchen layout in an 8×8 ft space it will require some creative engineering to make everything fit and still have a large enough aisle space. For a minimum of 36″ of aisle space near the fridge you may need to have narrower base cabinets of 18″ on one side and 24″ on the other, so the door can open correctly. The sink should be placed on one side with the refrigerator on the other with plenty of countertop space around both for prepping meals.

Why It Works: Maximizes counter and cabinet space by using three walls while promoting workflow efficiency.

Design Tips:

• Try to keep 4ft of space between the appliances for an effective work triangle.
• If your kitchen does not have a window make sure to add reflective materials and lighter color paint theme to brighten the space.
• Use a counter-depth refrigerator to keep it protruding into the aisle.
• Use a slim 24″ dishwasher to fit snugly with the cabinetry.
• Install ceiling mounted flush, semi-flush or recessed light fixtures for ambient lighting.
• Use under-cabinet LED strips under the upper cabinets to avoid shadows on the countertops.
• If you want to add a sense of drama, consider toe-kick, interior glass-cabinet or cove lighting.

8×8 Peninsula Kitchen Floor Plan

By combining a U-shape kitchen’s efficiency with a peninsula one creates a well-designed space that offers additional storage, counter space and seating.

Floor Plan Details: For small kitchens the addition of a peninsula is a great alternative to using an island that is too large to fit in the layout. This setup uses the traditional U-shape for the cabinets with a peninsula that can be used for seating at the counter and eat-in dining. This extra countertop is useful for an extra space to prep food or for placing small appliances underneath.

Why It Works: By extending a peninsula from one wall one can have extra space for a dining bar, prep space, or storage.

Design Tips: 

• Works best when the peninsula is around 18 inches deep to avoid taking up too much space. (24″ is standard)
• Those seating at bar stools typically need 24″ of space for each person. (This setup accounts for 2 bar stools)
• Use backless bar stools that can be tucked under the countertop overhang when not in use to save space.
• Ensure there is adequate countertop overhang of at least 12″to allow for legs underneath while seated.
• Placing the sink under the window helps one appreciate the outdoor views making the chore of cleaning dishes much more enjoyable.
• Consider installing pendant lights over the peninsula for a stylish focal point and lighting.
• Use recessed lights throughout the space for consistent and even lighting.

8×8 Straight-Line Kitchen with Folding Prep Table

A straight-line or one-wall kitchen with a folding prep table is ideal for increasing the amount of usable work surface for a variety of cooking tasks.

Floor Plan Details: A straight-line kitchen layout is popular in small apartments, studios and basement in-law units where space is at a premium. For the single wall place the refrigerator on one end with a corner range on the opposite side and the sink in the middle. This setup will help keep the hot range away from the cold refrigerator to avoid potential problems. If possible position the sink directly under the window to enhance ones enjoyment while cooking and cleaning there. In addition, setup a folding prep table, or portable cart as a makeshift work or dining surface. It can be used whenever needed in conjunction with stackable stools and then pushed up against a wall when not in use.

Why It Works: For smaller kitchen layouts without room for an island, the single wall of cabinets keeps everything within easy reach while the portable table adds an extra work or dining surface whenever necessary.

Design Tips:

• Use a foldable or pull-out prep table or cart to provide extra counter space when needed.
• Use stackable nested stools that can be easy stored when not in use.
• Consider a wall-mounted microwave or combined oven unit to save space.
• Use a counter depth refrigerator to avoid a bulky appliance from protruding out.
• Use extra open walls for open-shelving for everyday essentials.
• Consider magnetic knife racks to save countertop space.
• Install a pull-out cutting board under the countertop to save counter space.
• The design works best when combined with tall cabinets or a pantry unit to make up for the limited storage area.