Dublin Kitchens
White U-Shaped Kitchen Renovation in Ranelagh, Dublin
This kitchen renovation in Ranelagh, Dublin was completed for Clodagh Ryan, who wanted to replace an older L-shaped kitchen with a brighter and more practical fitted design. The original layout offered good potential, but the room no longer made the best use of the available space. The cabinetry was dated, storage was limited, and the finishes lacked continuity across the kitchen.
The renovation focused on improving storage and functionality while keeping the room light and easy to use. Kitchens4U designed, supplied and installed a modern U-shaped kitchen with a peninsula, using Alaska White Grey Superior Matt Vinyl cabinetry, white marble-effect quartz worktops and a green vertical tile splashback. The updated layout adds more worktop space, better storage and a clearer flow between cooking, washing and preparation areas.
Project Overview
| Location | Ranelagh, Dublin |
|---|---|
| Project Type | Modern kitchen renovation |
| Kitchen Style | Modern minimalist U-shaped kitchen |
| Cabinet Range | |
| Worktops | White marble-effect quartz worktops |
| Sink | |
| Layout | U-shaped kitchen with peninsula |
| Service Level | Design, supply and installation |
| Project Duration | 3 weeks |
| Budget Range | €21,000 – €24,000 |
The Brief
The client wanted to update an older kitchen while keeping the space bright and practical. More storage was needed, along with additional worktop space for preparation. The original L-shaped layout left parts of the room underused, so the design had to make better use of the available footprint without making the kitchen feel crowded.
A more modern finish was also important. The client wanted a cleaner cabinet style, a durable worktop surface and a stronger visual feature than the previous beige splashback. The design also needed to include integrated appliances, tall storage and a small amount of open shelving to keep the room from feeling too plain.
Before Renovation
Before the renovation, the kitchen had cream cabinet doors that were worn and stained in places, beige laminate worktops and an older beige tiled splashback. The freestanding cooker and extractor hood gave the cooking area a dated look, while the basic stainless steel sink and older finishes made the room feel less cohesive.
The kitchen structure itself did not present a major issue, but the room felt darker and less organised than it could have been. Storage was limited, worktop space was not being used efficiently, and the L-shaped layout did not provide the level of functionality the client wanted for everyday cooking and preparation.
Design Approach
The key design decision was to move from an L-shaped layout to a U-shaped kitchen with a peninsula. This created more cabinet storage, more preparation space and a clearer working route around the kitchen. The peninsula also gives the room an additional surface without requiring a separate island.
Alaska White Grey cabinetry was chosen to keep the room bright and calm. The soft white grey tone works well in a modern kitchen because it feels clean without looking too stark. White marble-effect quartz worktops were added for durability and to support the lighter overall look.
The green vertical tile splashback became the main visual feature of the design. It adds colour and texture behind the worktop areas while still feeling practical and easy to live with. Tall storage units were included to improve capacity, and integrated appliances helped create a more consistent fitted finish.
The Finished Kitchen
Overall Layout
The updated U-shaped layout makes better use of the available space. The peninsula adds extra worktop area for preparation and helps define the kitchen zone without closing the room off. The tall storage wall gives the kitchen a more built-in feel and keeps everyday items easier to organise.
Cooking Zone
The cooking zone has a more considered layout than before, with a built-in oven, induction hob and under-cabinet lighting. The green splashback gives this side of the kitchen a clear point of interest, while the full-height storage helps keep the surrounding worktop areas clearer.
Sink & Preparation Zone
The sink and preparation area now works as a more practical part of the kitchen. The Sicilia Lydia undermount sink sits neatly within the quartz worktop, while the peninsula gives the client extra space for preparing food, serving or setting items down during daily use.
Storage Solutions
Tall storage units were added to improve capacity and reduce visual clutter. Open timber shelving introduces a warmer detail beside the white grey cabinetry and green tile, helping the modern finish feel more balanced.
Key Products Used
- Alaska White Grey Superior Matt Vinyl cabinetry
- 18mm MFC cabinets
- Sicilia Lydia undermount 1.0 bowl large sink
- White marble-effect quartz worktops
- Green vertical tile splashback
- Integrated oven
- Black induction hob
- Open timber shelving
Before & After Comparison
| Area | Before | After |
|---|---|---|
| Layout | Older L-shaped layout | U-shaped layout with peninsula for extra worktop space |
| Cabinetry | Cream cabinet doors, worn and stained in places | Alaska White Grey matt vinyl cabinetry |
| Storage | Limited storage and less efficient use of space | Tall storage units and improved cabinet planning |
| Worktops | Beige laminate worktops | White marble-effect quartz worktops |
| Splashback | Older beige tiled splashback | Green vertical tile splashback with a cleaner finish |
| Appliances | Freestanding cooker and dated extractor hood | Integrated oven and black induction hob |
| Lighting | Basic lighting with less task focus | Pendant lights and under-cabinet lighting |
| Overall Feel | Dated, darker and lacking continuity | Brighter, more organised and more practical |
Installation Process
The project began with the removal of the old kitchen, including the older cabinetry, worktops, sink area and freestanding cooking appliances. Once the room was cleared, the new layout could be set out for the U-shaped design and peninsula.
The new cabinet run and tall storage units were then installed, followed by preparation for the integrated oven, induction hob and sink area. The quartz worktops were templated to suit the new layout, including the peninsula and undermount sink position. After the worktops were fitted, the green vertical tile splashback, lighting and final finishing details were completed.
Need help with the installation stage? Read our Kitchen Installation Ireland guide to understand what to expect from a professional fitted kitchen installation →
Materials & Finishes
The Alaska White Grey cabinet finish gives the kitchen a modern and understated base. It works well with the white marble-effect quartz worktops, which add brightness and provide a durable surface for everyday cooking and preparation.
See quartz worktop options at our showroom →
The green vertical tile splashback is the main feature finish in the room. It adds colour and texture without overpowering the kitchen. The Sicilia Lydia undermount sink and chrome mixer tap keep the sink area clean and practical, while under-cabinet lighting improves task lighting in the evening. The oak flooring and open timber shelving add warmth against the lighter cabinet finish.
Design Advice for Dublin Homes
A U-shaped layout can be a good option for Dublin homes where the kitchen needs more storage and worktop space but does not have room for a separate island. A peninsula can provide some of the same practical benefits as an island while using less floor space.
Light cabinet colours such as White Grey are useful where the client wants a bright, modern kitchen. They can be paired with a more distinctive splashback, such as green vertical tile, to add personality without making the room feel too busy. Tall units are also worth considering where storage is a priority.
Planning your own kitchen renovation? Read our Kitchen Renovation Dublin guide for practical advice before starting your project →
The Result
Clodagh Ryan’s white U-shaped kitchen in Ranelagh is now brighter, more practical and better suited to everyday use. The move from an L-shaped layout to a U-shaped layout with a peninsula gave the room more storage, more worktop space and a clearer working flow.
The combination of White Grey cabinetry, quartz worktops, green splashback tiles, integrated appliances and open timber shelving gives the kitchen a modern finish while keeping it comfortable and usable for a busy Dublin home.
Book a Free Kitchen Design Consultation
If you are planning a kitchen renovation in Ranelagh or elsewhere in Dublin, Kitchens4U can help with design, supply and installation. We can advise on layouts, cabinet finishes, worktops, storage and appliance planning based on your space.
FAQ
How much does a U-shaped kitchen renovation cost in Dublin?
The cost depends on the size of the room, cabinet range, worktops, appliances and installation requirements. This Ranelagh project was in the region of €21,000 – €24,000, including design, supply and installation.
Is a peninsula better than an island?
A peninsula can be a better option where space is limited. It adds worktop area and storage without needing the same clearance around all sides that an island requires.
Can a U-shaped kitchen work in a small room?
Yes. A U-shaped kitchen can work in a smaller room when the cabinet depths, appliance positions and walking space are carefully planned.
What colour works with green splashback tiles?
Soft white, white grey, warm timber and light quartz finishes all work well with green splashback tiles. In this project, White Grey cabinetry kept the overall look bright and calm.
Are quartz worktops worth it?
Quartz worktops are a popular choice because they are durable, easy to maintain and available in finishes that suit both modern and traditional kitchens.
Can Kitchens4U design a similar kitchen?
Yes. Kitchens4U can design, supply and install similar U-shaped kitchens, peninsula kitchens and modern fitted kitchens across Dublin.
How long does installation take?
This project took around 3 weeks. The exact timeline depends on the project scope, materials, worktop templating and site requirements.
Do I need to move plumbing to create a U-shaped kitchen?
Not always. It depends on the existing sink position and the new layout. Kitchens4U can advise whether plumbing changes are needed during the design stage.
