2025 Kitchen Layout Design Principles in Malaysia: Wash, Cut, Cook (洗,切,煮)

The kitchen is the heart of every home, and its layout significantly impacts cooking efficiency, convenience, and overall experience. As we step into 2025, the focus remains on the timeless principle of “Wash, Cut, Cook”, emphasizing a seamless flow between these key activities. Whether you’re designing a new kitchen or remodeling an old one, following this principle can optimize your kitchen layout for better functionality.

To help you make informed decisions, here’s a comprehensive guide to the four most effective kitchen layout designs Malaysia, their unique features, and how they align with the “Wash, Cut, Cook” workflow.

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1. U-Shaped Kitchen Layout Malaysia: Maximize Space and Functionality

The U-shaped kitchen design Malaysia is a highly practical and efficient design that maximizes both storage and workspace. Its three-sided layout naturally supports the “Wash, Cut, Cook” workflow, creating a functional triangle for smooth transitions between zones.

  • Key Features:
    • Short and efficient operation routes.
    • Abundant counter and storage space.
    • Allows multiple users to work simultaneously.
  • Best For:
    • Large kitchen spaces.
    • Households requiring substantial storage and workspace.
    • Families who value collaborative cooking and efficient workflows.

2. L-Shaped Kitchen Layout Malaysia: The Most Versatile Option

The L-shaped kitchen layout Malaysia is a timeless choice for its versatility and space-saving benefits. With its right-angle configuration, this design is ideal for integrating the “Wash, Cut, Cook” sequence while providing flexibility for additional kitchen elements like a small kitchen island.

  • Key Features:
    • Fits easily into smaller spaces without compromising functionality.
    • Provides ample counter space for food preparation and cooking.
    • Easily adaptable for adding storage or dining areas.
  • Best For:
    • Medium-sized kitchens in family homes.
    • Homes with space limitations but a need for practicality.

3. One-Wall Kitchen Layout: Simplified Kitchen Design Malaysia

The one-wall kitchen design Malaysia, also known as a linear layout, is the simplest and most compact kitchen design. All workstations (sink, cutting area, and stove) are aligned in a single row, following a straightforward “Wash, Cut, Cook” flow.

  • Key Features:
    • A clear and simple workflow.
    • Ideal for small kitchens, studio apartments, or single-person households.
    • Cost-effective and easy to implement.
  • Best For:
    • Compact spaces, such as small apartments or minimalist homes.
    • Individuals seeking an affordable and space-efficient kitchen design.

4. Galley Kitchen Layout Malaysia: Double the Efficiency

The galley kitchen layout—also known as a double-sided or parallel kitchen—is perfect for optimizing efficiency in a slightly larger space. This layout positions two workspaces on opposite walls, allowing for smooth transitions between washing, cutting, and cooking stations.

  • Key Features:
    • Maximizes counter and storage space.
    • Supports efficient workflows, especially for multiple users.
  • Best For:
    • Homes with a medium-to-large kitchen space.
    • Families looking for more storage and preparation areas in their kitchen design.

Why Optimizing Your Kitchen Layout Matters in Malaysia

When designing or remodeling a kitchen, the kitchen layout should prioritize workflow efficiency over aesthetics. A thoughtfully designed kitchen layout saves time, minimizes unnecessary movement, and enhances the overall cooking experience. Here’s how to apply the “Wash, Cut, Cook” principle effectively to any kitchen layout:

  1. Sink Placement: Place the sink near the entrance or refrigerator to simplify the process of unloading and washing groceries.
  2. Counter Space for Cutting: Dedicate a generous amount of counter space between the sink and stove for meal prep.
  3. Cooking Station: Position your stove in a central location, with oils, spices, and utensils conveniently nearby.
  4. Storage Accessibility: Keep essential items like cutting boards, knives, and cookware close to their respective work zones.

Pro Tip: Adding a Kitchen Island for Enhanced Functionality

When designing or remodeling a kitchen, the kitchen layout should prioritize workflow efficiency over aesthetics. A thoughtfully designed kitchen layout saves time, minimizes unnecessary movement, and enhances the overall cooking experience. Here’s how to apply the “Wash, Cut, Cook” principle effectively to any kitchen layout:

  1. Sink Placement: Place the sink near the entrance or refrigerator to simplify the process of unloading and washing groceries.
  2. Counter Space for Cutting: Dedicate a generous amount of counter space between the sink and stove for meal prep.
  3. Cooking Station: Position your stove in a central location, with oils, spices, and utensils conveniently nearby.
  4. Storage Accessibility: Keep essential items like cutting boards, knives, and cookware close to their respective work zones.

2025 Xiaohongshu Viral Open Concept Kitchen Layout Blueprint Case Study

Transforming a home’s kitchen layout is more than just rearranging furniture—it’s about creating a space that seamlessly blends aesthetics, functionality, and the needs of its users. Here’s a detailed case study from Xiaohongshu that showcases a remarkable open concept kitchen layout transformation from @看别人牧羊的没头脑. 

Background: Challenges and Vision

This case study revolves around a 139㎡ triplex home with three bedrooms. The original kitchen was positioned near the entrance, making it cramped and poorly lit—far from ideal for a couple who loves experimenting with culinary creations at home. The primary goal for the first-floor redesign was to prioritize openness and brightness.

The solution? Eliminate the existing kitchen space and create an open concept kitchen layout that merges with a dining area, study, reading corner, and entertainment zone. This approach achieves a “living-room-less” and “guest-room-less” shared space, where functionality meets aesthetic simplicity.

Open Concept Kitchen Redesign Highlights

The transformation not only addressed functionality but also introduced innovative ideas to elevate the kitchen’s appeal and usability. Here’s how the redesign came to life:

  1. Optimized Kitchen Workflow
    Inspired by manufacturing assembly lines and the principle of reducing waste, the redesigned kitchen layout follows a clear “Wash, Cut, Cook” workflow. This workflow ensures minimal movement and eliminates backtracking:
    • Vegetable retrieval → Temporary storage
    • Washing → Prepping ingredients
    • Cooking → Dining
    • Dishwashing
  2. The carefully planned layout ensures that each activity flows naturally into the next, enhancing efficiency for everyday cooking and cleaning.
  3. Integrated Appliances: High Cabinet and Refrigerator Combo

Transforming a home’s kitchen layout is more than just rearranging furniture—it’s about creating a space that seamlessly blends aesthetics, functionality, and the needs of its users. Here’s a detailed case study from Xiaohongshu that showcases a remarkable open concept kitchen layout transformation from @看别人牧羊的没头脑. 

Background: Challenges and Vision

This case study revolves around a 139㎡ triplex home with three bedrooms. The original kitchen was positioned near the entrance, making it cramped and poorly lit—far from ideal for a couple who loves experimenting with culinary creations at home. The primary goal for the first-floor redesign was to prioritize openness and brightness.

The solution? Eliminate the existing kitchen space and create an open concept kitchen layout that merges with a dining area, study, reading corner, and entertainment zone. This approach achieves a “living-room-less” and “guest-room-less” shared space, where functionality meets aesthetic simplicity.

To accommodate a large 810×860mm “King Kong” refrigerator as a built-in feature, custom high cabinets were designed around it (850×900mm). This ensures a seamless and elegant finish without compromising functionality. For symmetry, an identical high cabinet was installed on the opposite side.

  • Key Features of the High Cabinets:
    • Instead of bulky pull-out baskets or drawers, a foldable door with hidden shelving was introduced.
    • Ample space to integrate built-in appliances like a microwave and a steam oven, with 330mm of remaining storage space for other essentials.
    • The design prioritizes visual appeal, maintaining a clean and organized look while offering practical storage solutions.

4. Goodbye Kitchen Island, Hello Grand Dining Table

To avoid fragmenting the open space, the homeowners opted against a kitchen island layout. Instead, they installed a stunning 2200×1000mm dining table, creating a bold focal point for the entire space. The table anchors the room while maintaining the open and airy atmosphere.

5. Bright and Unified Design


By removing non-load-bearing walls between the kitchen, living room, and bedroom, the open-concept kitchen design merges seamlessly with other areas. This not only enhances natural lighting but also fosters interaction among family members and guests.

Kitchen Design Features That Shine

The standout elements of this kitchen design aren’t just limited to the layout. Three innovative features elevate the functionality of the space:

  1. Highly Efficient Workflow (动线设计)
    Borrowing from industrial efficiency concepts, the workflow ensures that each task—retrieving, washing, prepping, cooking, and cleaning—occurs in a logical sequence with minimal physical strain. The well-thought-out kitchen workflow contributes to a stress-free cooking experience.
  2. Innovative High Cabinets
    Unlike traditional pull-out organizers, the custom high cabinets feature foldable doors that open to reveal hidden shelves. This design maximizes space while keeping the kitchen visually tidy. These cabinets also house the refrigerator, microwave, and steam oven, maintaining symmetry and style.
  3. Embedded Appliances
    Fully integrated appliances like the oversized refrigerator and built-in ovens contribute to the sleek, modern look of the kitchen. Additional considerations for ventilation and heat dissipation ensure long-term performance without sacrificing aesthetics.

Lessons from the Xiaohongshu Case Study

  1. Flexibility in Design
    Removing unnecessary walls and rooms transformed this home into a bright, unified space. By prioritizing an open concept kitchen layout, the homeowners achieved their goal of creating a multifunctional shared area.
  2. Custom Storage Solutions
    High cabinets and concealed shelving offer a practical and visually appealing alternative to bulky pull-out organizers. Designing around specific needs, such as oversized appliances, ensures every inch of space is optimized.
  3. Functionality First
    While aesthetics were important, the homeowners focused on functionality. Their decision to skip a kitchen island layout in favor of a large dining table is a perfect example of balancing design with practicality.

This Xiaohongshu kitchen layout blueprint is an inspiring case study that showcases the possibilities of an open concept kitchen. By incorporating efficient workflows, innovative storage solutions, and seamless integration with other living areas, the design embodies the principles of modern kitchen design Malaysia. Whether you’re working with a compact space or a larger home, this case highlights the importance of tailoring your kitchen layout to your lifestyle.

If you’re considering your own open concept kitchen design Malaysia, draw inspiration from this project to create a space that’s not just beautiful, but also functional and efficient.

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Comprehensive Interior Design Malaysia Services

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Cutting Edge Interior Design Malaysia with Smart Home Furniture Solutions

Beyond traditional furniture, ZBOM HOME, the best one stop service for interior design Malaysia you can find, offers smart home furniture that combines style, innovation, and functionality for every area of the home. This includes multifunctional pieces designed to simplify life and maximize space, aligning with modern living demands.

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