The working triangle is a kitchen design concept that focuses on the functionality and efficiency of the kitchen layout. It aims to streamline the movement between the three key areas where most of the kitchen tasks will occur – the oven, the sink and the fridge. This principle has been a guide in kitchen design for decades and continues to influence how modern kitchens are planned.
History of the Working Triangle
The working triangle concept originated in the early 20th century, and became popular during the 1940s and 1950s, as a way to optimise kitchen spaces. Kitchens were smaller at the time, and maximising the space was important. The concept was developed by industrial engineers and architects who aimed to improve the functionality of the kitchen for homemakers.
As the postwar housing market boomed, the working triangle became a standard design principle in many new homes, shaping the layouts of countless kitchens.
The Concept of the Working Triangle
The working triangle connects the oven, sink and fridge in a triangular layout. These three elements are considered the most used stations in the kitchen, and positioning them in an efficient way will prevent you from having to take unnecessary steps. The idea is that the triangle should allow easy movement between these points, with no leg of the triangle being too long or too short.
The working triangle aims to keep the distance between these stations within a certain range, traditionally between 4 and 9 feet per side, to create good workflow but also to avoid having to travel unnecessarily.
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Applying the Working Triangle in Modern Kitchens
Although kitchens have evolved and grown throughout the years to incorporate all our modern machines and gadgets, the working triangle is still relevant in today’s designs, although with some modifications to suit larger, open-concept kitchens. The principle can now be adapted to accommodate multi-functional kitchens, where islands, other appliances and eating areas are necessary.
