Designing your HDB BTO kitchen is a major part of your home renovation journey, especially as kitchens are becoming multifunctional spaces for cooking, dining, hosting, and even work-from-home. The right layout can maximise efficiency, visual appeal, and storage, which is essential in compact Singapore homes.
While the classic single-wall, L-shape, and galley layouts remain popular, many homeowners today are exploring the idea of adding a kitchen island to elevate both functionality and aesthetics.
This guide compares these layouts and explains when an island works (and when it doesn’t) in BTO kitchens.
1. Single-Wall Kitchen Layout — Best for Small & Minimalist HDB BTO Flats
The Single-Wall layout lines up all your cabinets and appliances along a single wall. Many BTO flats, especially smaller units, use this layout due to limited floor space.
Pros
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Simple, clean and modern
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Efficient for basic cooking
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Cost-effective for kitchen renovation in Singapore
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Great for young couples or light cooking households
Cons
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Least countertop space among all layouts
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Storage can be limited
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Not ideal for heavy cooking
Design Tips
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Add full-height upper cabinets for extra storage
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Consider adding a slim, movable kitchen island if space permits
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Use neutral colours to create spaciousness
2. Galley Kitchen Layout
A galley kitchen features two parallel counters, creating a highly efficient workflow.
Pros
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Maximises countertop and cabinet space
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Very efficient for cooking
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Great separation of wet and dry zones
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Ideal for heavy cooks or families with larger meal prep routines
Cons
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Needs sufficient walkway space
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Can feel enclosed without proper lighting
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Not suitable for open-concept kitchen lovers
Design Tips
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Maintain a minimum 1m – 1.2m walkway
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Add LED strip lighting under cabinets for brightness
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Keep one side dedicated to cooking, the other to prep/wash
3. L-Shape Kitchen Layout
The L-shape kitchen uses two perpendicular walls, making it one of the most functional layouts in HDB homes.
Pros
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Excellent workflow
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Suitable for both enclosed and open kitchens
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Maximises corner spaces
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Creates room for a potential breakfast counter or island
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Ideal for families who cook regularly
Cons
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Corner spaces need special mechanisms (magic corner/carousel)
Design Tips
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Install pull-out trays for corner storage optimisation
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Consider extending one side of the “L” into a peninsula
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Perfect foundation if you want to include a kitchen island
4. Kitchen with Island — Functional, Stylish & Perfect for Open-Concept Homes
A kitchen island is increasingly popular among Singapore homeowners because it blends cooking, dining, and socialising. However, not all HDB BTO kitchens can fit a fixed island due to space constraints.
A kitchen island is usually possible if:
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You opt for an open-concept kitchen (wall hack required)
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Your kitchen width after hacking is at least 3 to 3.2 metres
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You have a 4-room, 5-room, or executive BTO flat
Pros
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Provides extra prep space
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Adds seating for casual dining
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Great for hosting and social interaction
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Additional storage under the island
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Enhances modern interior design in Singapore homes
Cons
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Not feasible in all BTO flats
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Requires hacking approvals (if required)
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More carpentry = higher renovation cost
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Must follow HDB clearance rules for fire safety and movement space
Types of Kitchen Islands for HDB BTO Flats
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Movable or portable island
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Best for small BTO kitchens
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Can double as prep station or minibar
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Peninsula island (attached on one side)
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Most common in HDB flats
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Saves space and improves stability
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Island with an induction hob or sink
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Requires plumbing/electrical planning
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Best suited for high-function kitchens
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Design Tips for Islands
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Keep 1.1–1.2 metres clearance around the island
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Use quartz or sintered stone for durability
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Add USB or power outlets for appliances
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Use pendant lights for a cosy dining vibe
Which Layout Should You Choose for Your HDB BTO Kitchen?
Choosing the perfect kitchen layout depends on your floor plan, lifestyle, cooking habits, and renovation budget. Whether you are planning an HDB kitchen renovation or designing your first HDB BTO kitchen, layouts like single-wall, L-shape, galley, and island all offer unique advantages.
Beyond layout planning, selecting the right materials also plays a key role in both aesthetics and functionality. If you’re unsure how to choose the right backsplash to complement your kitchen design, head over to our detailed guide on how to pick a backsplash for a kitchen to learn more.
For the most functional and visually stunning results, always work closely with an experienced interior design Singapore team who can optimise measurements, plan utilities properly, and customise carpentry to your needs. Ready to transform your kitchen? Get in touch with Starry Homestead today for a personalised design consultation and let us bring your vision to life.
