The Power of the L-Shape in Home Design
I work as a blogger for businesses although I do a variety of different types of writing. I particularly enjoy writing about all aspects of design and creativity. I think that your home should reflect your personality and that it should change as you change. More about me at www.kathrynvercillo.com and http://diaryofasmartchick.com.
I work as a blogger for businesses although I do a variety of different... More »
One of the things that my eye is always drawn to is the repetition of shapes in home design. Although I gravitate towards circles and other curved shapes, I do find something appealing about the geometric L-shape.
The best thing about the L-shape is that it is so functional in the home. It creates more space where you need it whether it's desk space, seating or work space.
The L-shape also helps to give shape to the rest of the room. It can define a corner in the center of a room and therefore create mini-rooms within a larger space. That's ideal for a loft or any open design.
For me, the best thing is when the L-shape is used in unexpected ways. I like seeing the pattern in countertops or as shelving that comes around a corner (jutting out around the corner instead of conforming into it).
The best thing about the L-shape is that it is so functional in the home. It creates more space where you need it whether it's desk space, seating or work space.
The L-shape also helps to give shape to the rest of the room. It can define a corner in the center of a room and therefore create mini-rooms within a larger space. That's ideal for a loft or any open design.
For me, the best thing is when the L-shape is used in unexpected ways. I like seeing the pattern in countertops or as shelving that comes around a corner (jutting out around the corner instead of conforming into it).
The easiest way to add an L-shape to your home is to purchase an L-shaped sectional sofa. What's great about this is that it works in the corner of a room but can also be set in the middle of the room to create a room within a room.
One very creative addition to an outdoor space is the L-shaped fire pit. The geometric design set against the wild flames is gorgeous. And, of course, by putting benches on both sides of the fire pits you get a lot of function out of this shape.
I love the idea of adding a simple L-shaped shelf to corners in a home. This adds storage space, shelf space or even dining space. I don't particularly care for the way that this one has been rounded, though, and would personally retain the true L-shape here.
by Kelly Cross
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The L-shaped island offers extra work space and dining space in your kitchen.
by Rina Magen
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The L-shape here is subtle because it's been reversed. By covering just the top and one side of a counter with a top in a contrasting color, this cabinet space becomes more geometrically interesting.
The L-shaped bench is a terrific addition to a small kitchen. It expands the dining area and allows for window seating at the same time.
The L-shape is perfect for a corner desk. This is true whether you have a large office or just a small corner niche for your office space.
Notably, the office L-shape does not have to be all one level. I love the option of creating a multi-level L to give you two different heights of work space in one small area.
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| If you're really lucky then your home itself will have an L-shape. As we can see here, this serves to frame an outdoor seating area. Ideally both the bedroom and the kitchen can then open onto the garden area. |
An L-shaped pool provides a strong look for the backyard. This one is a bit abstract in shape because of the way the lines of the pool follow the lines of the landscape. It's great for a traditional, classic home. In contrast, a more traditional L-shape would add geometric appeal and be great for a very contemporary home.
Comments

new hue: home staging + room makeovers I'd love an L shaped house for the backyard access it gives alone. Adding an L shaped sectional to our family room made that room so much cozier, too. Thanks for the idea book.
3 years ago · Like

Patti Very interesting observation!
3 years ago · Like

W. David Seidel, AIA - Architect Thanks for including my work in your excellent ideabook. --david
3 years ago · Like
Ideabook published on June 21, 2010.
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