Peninsula Kitchen Layout Guide
The best of both worlds. Peninsula kitchens offer island functionality while saving space through wall connection. Perfect for medium-sized kitchens wanting extra workspace and seating without the space requirements of a full island.
Peninsula Kitchen Facts
What Is a Peninsula Kitchen?
A peninsula kitchen features a connected extension that juts out from existing cabinetry, creating an attached "island" that's anchored to a wall or cabinets. This layout provides many island benefits while requiring less space and structural support.
Common Use Cases
- Medium-Sized Kitchens: Add workspace without requiring full island clearance
- L-Shape Extensions: Transform L-shaped layouts into more functional G-shapes
- Budget-Conscious Projects: Island functionality at lower cost
- Breakfast Bars: Casual seating and quick meal areas
- Room Dividers: Subtle separation between kitchen and living areas
Alternative Names
Also known as: Connected island, attached island, breakfast peninsula, kitchen peninsula, G-shaped extension, partial island, breakfast bar
Peninsula Dimensions & Space Planning
Perfect Peninsula Dimensions
Minimum Requirements
- • Overall Kitchen: 120+ square feet
- • Peninsula Length: 3 feet minimum
- • Clearance: 36 inches on open sides
Optimal Peninsula Sizes
- • Small: 3x6 feet (basic extension)
- • Medium: 3x8 feet (prep + seating)
- • Large: 4x10 feet (full functionality)
Connection Planning
- • End Connection: Extends from cabinet run end
- • Corner Connection: Creates G-shape from L-layout
- • Wall Connection: Attached to wall for support
Peninsula Functions & Benefits
Primary Peninsula Uses
- • Prep Extension: Additional counter space for food prep
- • Breakfast Bar: Casual seating and quick meals
- • Room Division: Subtle separation of kitchen from living areas
- • Storage Boost: Extra cabinets and drawers
Traffic Flow Benefits
- • Less clearance needed than full island
- • Maintains open feel on one side
- • Guides traffic flow naturally
- • Creates defined kitchen workspace
💡 Pro Tip
Peninsulas work well in kitchens as small as 120 square feet, making them ideal for adding island-style functionality in compact spaces.
Pros & Considerations
✓ Peninsula Kitchen Advantages
- Space Efficient: Provides island benefits in smaller kitchens
- Lower Cost: Less expensive than full island installation
- Structural Support: Wall connection provides stability without floor support
- Easy Installation: Simpler plumbing and electrical connections
- Room Definition: Creates subtle separation without full walls
- Flexible Design: Can be added to existing layouts as upgrade
⚠ Important Considerations
- Traffic Bottleneck: Can create dead-end workspace that traps cooks
- Limited Access: Only accessible from three sides vs four on island
- Layout Constraints: Must work with existing wall and cabinet configuration
- Less Social: Not as central or open as freestanding island
- Design Limitations: Connection point constrains shape and positioning options
- Future Changes: More difficult to modify or relocate than standalone island
Peninsula Kitchen Design Variations
L-Shape with Peninsula
Extends from L-shaped layout creating G-configuration with additional workspace and seating.
- • Best for: Medium-sized kitchens
- • Size: 120-180 sq ft
- • Features: Breakfast bar, storage
Galley Peninsula
Extends from galley kitchen to create additional workspace while maintaining corridor efficiency.
- • Best for: Narrow kitchen extensions
- • Size: 100-150 sq ft
- • Features: Extended counter, seating
Angled Peninsula
Diagonal or curved peninsula that creates interesting sight lines and improved traffic flow.
- • Best for: Unique architectural spaces
- • Size: Variable based on angle
- • Features: Custom design, visual interest
Peninsula Storage & Features
Maximizing Peninsula Storage
Base Storage Solutions
- • Deep drawers accessible from both sides
- • Cabinet doors with pull-out shelves
- • Specialized storage for frequently used items
- • Hidden storage for small appliances
Connection Point Storage
- • Utilize connection area for tall storage
- • Built-in spice racks and organizers
- • Vertical dividers for baking sheets
- • Wine storage or display areas
Peninsula Design Features
Seating & Dining
- • Breakfast bar overhang for stools
- • Multi-level design for dining vs prep
- • Knee space planning for comfort
- • Electrical outlets for devices
Functional Additions
- • Secondary prep sink for convenience
- • Wine refrigerator or beverage center
- • Microwave placement for easy access
- • Display areas for decorative items
Peninsula Planning Tools
Peninsula Size Calculator
Calculate optimal peninsula dimensions for your existing kitchen layout.
Calculate SizePeninsula Cost Calculator
Estimate the cost of adding a peninsula to your current kitchen.
Estimate CostPerfect Cabinets for Kitchen Peninsulas
Base Cabinets
Standard base cabinets perfect for peninsula foundations and storage.
Shop Base Cabinets →Specialty Storage
Custom organizers and pull-out systems for peninsula efficiency.
Shop Specialty →Hardware & Accessories
Handles, hinges, and organizers for peninsula functionality.
Shop Hardware →Peninsula Kitchen FAQ
Ready to Add a Peninsula to Your Kitchen?
Our design experts can help you determine if a peninsula is right for your space and create the perfect extension for your needs.