Table of Contents

What is a One-Wall Kitchen?

What are the Pros and Cons of using a single-wall kitchen Design?

One Wall Kitchen Design Ideas For the Organiser in You

Tips to Help You Create the Best One-Wall Kitchen Design

How NoBroker can Help?

FAQ's

HomeInteriorsDesign GuidesOne Wall Kitchen Designs

What is a One Wall Kitchen, and What are Your Design Options?

calendar icon

April 14, 2023 12:09 PM

author

Ananth

Senior Editor

Category

Interior Design Tips & Ideas

Tag

Kitchen design, Space-saving furniture

Views

2.8K Views

A kitchen is the heart of every home, where food is prepared and memories are made. A one-wall kitchen is a space-saving layout where all kitchen appliances, like the stove, sink, and storage, are arranged along a single wall. It is perfect for small apartments, studio flats, or open-plan homes. This design makes cooking efficient by keeping everything within easy reach, and is also cost-effective and perfect for a minimal and modern interior. Popular single-wall kitchen design options include Scandinavian, high-glass modular, and wooden matte finishes. Adding a foldable table, or movable island, can enhance the functionality. Starting price for a basic setup will be around ₹50,000, depending on the materials and the fittings. It is a smart and stylish solution for compact living spaces.

What is a One-Wall Kitchen?

One Wall Kitchen Design Ideas
(A one-wall kitchen design can save space and present an organised front.)

A one-wall kitchen is a kitchen layout where all appliances and cabinets are placed along one wall, making it ideal for small spaces. Single-wall modular kitchen designs offer sleek, space-saving solutions, with smart storage and a modern look combining style with efficiency. Wondering how much space you need for this? Just 8 to 10 feet of wall length is enough for the functional setup. It is suitable for a studio apartment or a compact home.

What are the Pros and Cons of using a single-wall kitchen Design?

Pros and Cons of One Wall Kitchen
(One wall kitchen photos look elegant and beautiful, but there’s more than meets the eye.)

Like most things in life, interior design choices also have pros and cons associated with them. A kitchen laid out across a single wall also has multiple sides. Understanding them will help you determine whether it is the right choice for you.

 Pros

This list will focus on the advantages associated with using a single-wall kitchen.

  • Budget-Friendly: While most interior decor choices come with hefty price tags, a kitchen using a single wall is cost-effective. Since all the cabinets and drawers take up a single wall, the installation cost is relatively low. Additionally, it only requires one countertop, which makes assembly easier. Using this design can let you reallocate your funds to costlier areas.
  • Open-Plan Living: Open-plan living spaces are becoming more and more popular. This design ensures a smooth flow throughout the house without any obstructions. In addition, the one-wall design takes up minimal floor space, making it highly compatible.
  • Easy-to-Access Tools: A single-wall kitchen design also helps arrange your cooking utensils, ingredients, and other stuff in an organised manner. In addition, since everything sits along the same walls, things are easier to grab and use. 
  • Better Space Utilisation: Kitchens using a single wall are generally suited to just one person cooking. However, the laterally laid-out elements make it a lot easier. Consider placing the fridge or microwave towards the end so that others can access the tools without disturbing your culinary exploration near the stovetop.

 Cons

As stated, there are cons related to almost everything in life, and interior design choices are no different.

  • Size: The space and size are the most obvious downsides to a kitchen using a single wall. However, the compact nature does introduce a lot of clutter and chaos. In addition, you may need to downsize some elements like the fridge and sinks. 
  • Storage Capacity: Since you can use a single wall, storage becomes a huge issue. This issue is elevated if you have limited vertical space as well. You may need to shop for kitchen utensils and accessories based on the space available. 
  • Turns You Away from Everyone: Kitchens are meant to be social spaces in the modern home. However, the one-wall kitchen design does the opposite and makes you face the wall rather than the others. This isn’t an issue per se but rather a preference. 

One Wall Kitchen Design Ideas For the Organiser in You

One Wall Kitchen Design Ideas
(A small one-wall kitchen with island layout can be used to increase efficient space utilisation.)

If you love a neat and efficient space, these kitchen design single-wall ideas are perfect for you. With everything arranged in a straight line, it maximises space while keeping things organised, stylish, and easy to use. Below are a few designs to choose from:

1. Kitchen with an Island

One Wall Kitchen
(Source: Pinterest)(A small one-wall kitchen with an island layout can be used to increase efficient space utilisation.)

Open floor homes like open, clutter-free spaces, and a one-wall kitchen fit in perfectly. You can also add an island for more use and style.

  • Use the island as extra counter space for prep
  • Add a sink to turn it into a mini station
  • Style it with a stool to create a dining spot

2. Contrasting Colours

One Wall Kitchen
(Source: Pinterest)(Although one-wall kitchen cabinets are mainly there to provide storage, you can use them to display a contrast.)

A One-wall kitchen doesn’t have to be plain or practical; rather, it can show off your style too. From colours to appliances, every detail can reflect your creativity.

  • Try a bold black & white colour theme
  • Match your appliances with the kitchen colour

3. White and Stainless Steel

One Wall Kitchen
(Source: Pinterest)(A single-wall modular kitchen can also use appliances as design elements.)

Stainless steel is perfect for kitchens because it is strong, stylish, and long-lasting. Pair it with a white cabinet in a one-all kitchen to create a fresh and modern look.

  • Add a stainless steel fridge or a chimney for shine
  • Use steel finish microwaves or ovens to match the theme.
  • The white cabinet balances the steel and brightens the space.

4. Black Theme

One Wall Kitchen
(Source: Pinterest)(While white helps reflect more light and appear roomier, black can be used to create a cosier feeling with breathtaking results.)

If you love a bold and dramatic look, then a black themed one wall kitchen is a great pick. Pair it with lighting to add contrast and a touch of luxury.

  • Go for gloss black or matte cabinets based on the decor
  • Add orange LED strips for a bright and modern contrast
  • Use a minimal or chrome handle to break the monotony

5. Dark Polished Wood

One Wall Kitchen
(Source: Pinterest)(A single-wall modular kitchen can be transformed into a classy and elegant space with the help of dark-tanned wooden storage units.)

With all storage set on one wall, using a single wood finish in a one-all kitchen brings harmony and warmth.

  • Choose a deep tan or walnut finish for the cabinet and drawers
  • Pair it with a countertop that contrasts or complements
  • Add warm lighting to enhance the natural wood look

6. Island cum Breakfast Counter Design

One Wall Kitchen
(Source: Pinterest)(A small one-wall kitchen with island layout can use a breakfast counter to further use space smartly.)

A breakfast counter is a smart and stylish add-on to a kitchen island, especially in a one-wall kitchen. It is perfect for quick meals or casual morning chats.

  • Match the counter with the kitchen top for a seamless look.
  • Try to use the contrasting finish to make the counter stand out.
  • Add comfy stools to turn it into a cosy breakfast spot.

7. Wall Cabinet Designs

One Wall Kitchen
(Source: Pinterest)(One-wall kitchen cabinets can be used to utilise vertical space.)

The main idea for a kitchen with one wall is to save space, and wall-mounted cabinets help to do just that. They free up floor space while adding smart vertical storage.

  • Install wall cabinets above the counter to store essentials
  • Keep the lower area open for a spacious and clean look
  • Use a glass front cabinet to make the space feel lighter

8. Peninsula Island Designs

One Wall Kitchen
(Source: Pinterest)(One-wall kitchen design ideas are invaluable for small, cramped spaces.)

A peninsula island connects to one end of the wall, making it ideal for a small one-wall kitchen. It saves space while making the dining spot functional.

  • Perfect for narrow layouts where a full island will not fit
  • Adds more prep space without crowding the kitchen
  • Include a raised table section for quick meals or chats

9. Built into the Brick Wall

Built into the Brick Wall
(A single-wall kitchen design can further reduce its footprint by being built into the wall.)

Built-in compartments are a clever way to tuck large appliances and storage into the wall, especially in a compact one-wall kitchen. Keep the layout neat and stylish.

  • Push ovens, fridges, or cabinets into wall niches to save space
  • Use brick or textured finishes to highlight the built-in design
  • Also, add spot lighting to make the whole space beautiful

10. Split Countertop

Spilt Countertop One Wall Design
(One wall kitchen cabinets can be used as a countertop mounting space and storage.)


In a crowded modern apartment, the kitchen often lacks space, but with smart design, you can make the most of it. Splitting the counterparts with a stovetop creates a clear zone for different tasks.

  • Use the stovetop to separate food prep from the storage areas
  • Keep a clean and dedicated section for washing and cleaning
  • Organise the storage below the counterparts for a clutter-free look.

 Tips to Help You Create the Best One-Wall Kitchen Design

Tips to Help You Create the Best One Wall Kitchen Design
(These pointers can help you utilise the space better.)

The following tips can be treated as basics for designing a kitchen using just one wall. Remember these while laying out your culinary laboratory for the best outcomes.

  • Add Open Shelves: Open shelves are an integral part of every compact kitchen. They help the space appear breathable and cosy. Unfortunately, too many cabinets and drawers make the vibe quite stuffy.
  • Use Versatile Furniture: Versatile or multi-purpose furniture is a saviour while decorating and planning out a small space. Simple additions like a drop-down or collapsible table can add a lot of utility. 
  • Add an Island: Standalone islands are invaluable while designing a single-wall kitchen. They add a space for you to prep, serve, or clean, and they can also house additional storage. However, islands do not always need much space, and peninsula variants can add a lot to extremely small spaces.
  • Segregate Work Zones

How NoBroker can Help?

A one-wall kitchen is perfect for a modern house because it keeps everything like cooking, storage, and cleaning in one straight line, keeping the area organised and neat.NoBroker can help you design a one-wall kitchen in a perfect way by offering personalised interior solutions. Their team understands your space, budget, and style that matches your aesthetic. With 3D visualisation, expert guidance, and easy customisation, they make planning simple. From layout to material selections, NoBroker takes care of everything. Whether it is a new setup or a makeover, their service ensures a stylish kitchen that is perfect for all kinds of homes.  

FAQ's

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the best colour to paint the walls in a compact kitchen?toggle icon
The basics of painting a home always direct people to paint small spaces with brighter colours to make the area look larger.
2. Is there a minimum space requirement for a one-wall kitchen?toggle icon
There are no hard and fast rules as such. But you’d generally need at least 8 feet of uninterrupted space to place all your storage areas and appliances.
3. Which kind of cabinets works best in small kitchens?toggle icon
Suppose you do not wish to use too many cabinets. In that case, you should opt for the pull-out variants, which are deceptively large and can help accommodate your largest utensils effectively.
4. What are the best materials for my countertop?toggle icon
Countertops are very important; you can also use them to add a little flair to the design. The most popular options include the likes of granite, wood, ceramic tiles, and laminates.
5. How do I begin designing my one-wall kitchen?toggle icon
It would help if you started by listing the aspects you do not like about your current kitchen. Next, you can surf the web and bookmark designs and ideas you like the most. Finally, share your ideas with an expert to create a unique design.

About the Author

Ananth

Senior Editor

Who doesn’t love a stylish home? We know Ananth does! From a young age Ananth could never resist reading Architecture Digest, Good House Keeping, and so on. He did it because he was captivated by the beauty of the homes and the way they kept homes feeling like ‘home’ but yet glamorous. He is a wizard at keeping houses looking top-notch and he does it with the least effort. He writes to shares his tips and make loving your home easy.

Subscribe to our Newsletter

Get latest news delivered straight to your inbox

0