Kitchen galley: What Is a Galley Kitchen?

What Is a Galley Kitchen?

If there was ever a misunderstood—and often maligned—kitchen layout, it would have to be the galley kitchen. It’s called a galley kitchen after the efficient “galley” kitchens of railway dining cars. In the home, it’s a classic kitchen layout that’s versatile, durable, simple, and about as ergonomically correct as you can get.

What is a Galley Kitchen?

A galley kitchen is a long, narrow kitchen layout with services on one or both sides. An aisle runs down the center of a galley kitchen. Sometimes, the galley kitchen dead-ends at one end or it can be a pass-through kitchen.

If you’re remodeling, a galley kitchen can work beautifully as one of the most functional spaces in the home. Even though galley kitchens are space-savers and usually fit the need for small kitchen areas, you might even want to consider installing one in a larger space simply because it works so well.

Galley Kitchen Basics

A galley kitchen is a long, narrow kitchen that has base cabinets, wall cabinets, counters, or other services located on one or both sides of a central walkway. Less often, a galley is called a corridor kitchen because its main traffic lane is a long, narrow aisle.

The countertops can be interspersed with appliances like fridges, sinks, cabinetry, and other functional items.

Since galley kitchens are small, they tend to be less expensive to build or remodel than other kitchen layouts. Also, galley kitchens are ergonomically better than some other kitchen design layouts since key services are clustered near each other. This means that walking toward or reaching for items between the refrigerator, stove/oven, and sink is kept to a minimum.

Galley Kitchen Pros and Cons

Pros

• Space and cost savers

• Tight cluster of essential kitchen services

• Good use of classic kitchen triangle design

• Less kitchen flooring to purchase and install

• Perfect for do-it-yourself remodeling

• Lower cost on cabinets and counters means more money for other items

Cons

• Not good for more than two cooks at a time

• Less countertop and storage space

• Lower resale value

• Standard sink configurations recommended

• Hard to fit larger size appliances

• Poor traffic flow when it’s a dead-end galley kitchen (open only on one end)

Pros

There are plenty of advantages to a galley kitchen. For one, a galley kitchen saves space so that other rooms in your home can be more spacious. The layout keeps the major kitchen services such as water, electrical, and gas clustered in the same area using the work triangle. Doing so makes it easier for plumbers and electricians to install or service appliances.

Because countertops and cabinets are the most expensive elements in the kitchen, this cost is drastically minimized in the smaller space. Less floor space means less kitchen flooring that you need to purchase. Finally, because you don’t have to spend as much money on pricey countertops, cabinets, and flooring, more money is freed up to spend on appliances, the sink, or on other parts of your house.

Since galley kitchens are smaller, they tend to be slightly easier for do-it-yourself remodeling if the layout is simple with two banks of cabinets with straightforward, rectangular countertops.

Cons

There are a few drawbacks to a galley layout, one of which is that it tends to be too tight for multiple cooks to work at the same time since the space is narrow. Countertop and storage space can be limited in a galley kitchen because there are fewer base cabinets. Clutter can quickly build up and prep space may be restricted.

Resale value may be lower for homes with galley kitchens than for houses with other types of kitchen layouts because homeowners tend to prefer larger gourmet kitchens. Since people tend to gather in a kitchen when entertaining, galley kitchens are perhaps the least welcoming kitchen design when it comes to accommodating guests.

Galley Kitchen Design Considerations

A galley kitchen needs to be designed with thought to its scale. For example, appliances usually should be kept to standard sizes to avoid overcrowding in a galley kitchen. This type of kitchen makes excellent use of the tight, step-saving kitchen triangle design. Typically, the stovetop and refrigerator will be on opposite walls of a galley kitchen, though the refrigerator may be best at one end of a wall. Here are other considerations when planning and designing a galley kitchen.

Keep to the Basics

When building or remodeling a galley kitchen, stay with basics such as upper and lower cabinets, counters, refrigerator, sink, stove/oven, and a dishwasher. There is also typically no room in a galley kitchen for a permanent, full-size kitchen island or breakfast bar. However, you may have options. if there’s room, a mobile island at the end of the kitchen may be a good compromise. If there’s a window at the end of the kitchen, add a fold-out wall-mount table and a stool for a tiny eating nook.

Minimize Sink Size

Oversized farmhouse sinks or sinks angled at 45 degrees are difficult to fit into most galley kitchens. Instead, look for scaled-down sinks and keep sinks parallel to the counters. Drop-in sinks with built-in rims take away even more countertop space. Instead, consider installing an undermount sink so that the countertop can extend all the way to the sink edge.

Use Space-Saving Devices

Running kitchen cabinets to the ceiling maximizes storage space which is important in a smaller kitchen. Keep to lighter-toned cabinets, some with glass doors to avoid an imposing presence in a galley kitchen. For lower cabinets, make use of lazy-Susans and roll-out shelves to better utilize that often-wasted space at the back of cabinets.

Consider Removing a Window

You can lose a window in a galley kitchen to gain more upper cabinet space. To decide whether you want to remove the window, think about whether the effort and expense will be worth the extra cabinet space. Does the window give you ample natural light and air, and will it be too dark in the space with it gone? If you decide to take out the window, you may need to call in a professional to remove the window, add drywall and insulation, then install a bank of cabinets inside. Outdoors, the space needs to be closed up with siding.

Think About Aisle or Walkway Width

The aisle or walkway running the length of a galley kitchen is its backbone. The space between opposite counters, or the walkway itself, should be a minimum of three feet. Even more importantly, accessibility can become an issue for those who use wheelchairs or walkers. If aisle width is an issue, consider clustering all of the services on one side of the kitchen only.

Use Light, White, and Neutral Colors

Lighter tones can make your galley kitchen feel much larger. Use light and bright materials for counters, cabinets, flooring, and wall paint. Even appliances should be shiny or matte white or stainless steel. For example, consider unstained or lightly stained maple, birch, or bamboo cabinets or white cabinets and countertops to keep the space streamlined, airy, and light.

45 Galley Kitchen Ideas That Are Practical and Chic

By

Kristin Hohenadel

Kristin Hohenadel

Kristin Hohenadel has written on design for publications including the New York Times, Interior Design, Slate, Fast Company, and the international editions of Elle Decor.

Learn more about The Spruce’s
Editorial Process

Updated on 09/01/22

The Spruce / Leticia Almeida

Galley kitchens are often seen as dated and cramped, relics from a time before open plan kitchens ruled the day. Inspired by the compact, space-saving kitchens on boats, trains, and planes—in which long, narrow rows of cabinetry and appliances are placed on opposite walls with a central walkway in between them—these efficient spaces are often found in older city apartments and historic homes. Galley kitchens appeal to those who enjoy having a self-contained area for meal prep where everything is located within arm’s reach, plus the added benefit of banishing kitchen messes out of sight from the main living space.

Check out these galley kitchen ideas in a range of homes that prove that this classic style can be both practical and surprisingly chic.

• 01
  of 45

  Use Dark Cabinetry

  Fantastic Frank

  This sleek Stockholm galley kitchen from Fantastic Frank has dark charcoal flat-front European-style cabinetry that creates a chic and cozy grounded feel that sets the cooking area apart from the light and bright main space. A seamlessly built-in oven at eye level makes it easier to keep an eye on things without having to do squats to see if the cake is ready in the narrow space, adding an extra layer of efficiency.

• 02
  of 45

  Go All White

  Design by Leanne Ford Interiors / Photo by Reid Rolls

  This galley-style kitchen from Leanne Ford Interiors has crisp white walls, gleaming white backsplash tiles, immaculate white countertops, and all-white cabinetry, open shelving, and appliances, creating a clean, bright backdrop for meal prep. Red accents add a shot of energy, and hardwood flooring adds warmth.

• 03
  of 45

  Make It Streamlined and Sober

  Design by Caroline Andreoni Interior Design / Photo by Sophie Lloyd

  This sleek and streamlined Paris galley kitchen from Caroline Andréoni Interior Design has a sober palette of matte navy and chocolate brown tones. Built-in cabinetry houses the oven and hides the refrigerator, and provides storage to keep the space clutter-free. White marble countertops and large scale concrete effect floor tiles lighten things up.

• 04
  of 45

  Paint It Peach

  Design by Pluck

  In this cheerful galley kitchen from Pluck, a wash of summery peach on the cabinetry and blush-toned paint on the walls creates a happy, warm, feel-good vibe. The space is wide enough to provide plenty of room in the central walkway to make it comfortable for several people to use at once.

• 05
  of 45

  Add a Balcony

  Fantastic Frank

  This Swedish galley kitchen from Fantastic Frank opens onto a small balcony that makes it feel twice as big when the doors are flung open, creating an opportunity for al fresco dining and a spot for morning coffees and nightcaps after dark.

• 06
  of 45

  Add a Corner Banquette

  Design by Georgia Zikas Design / Photo by Jane Beiles

  In this galley-style city apartment kitchen from Georgia Zikas Design, a corner banquette is squeezed in at the far end beneath a window with a skyline view. A round tulip-style table without any sharp edges allows for easy maneuvering in the compact space. Glass-front cabinetry helps keep the narrow galley kitchen from feeling too closed in, and a gleaming tile backsplash on opposite walls helps to bounce light around.

• 07
  of 45

  Supersize It

  Design by Julian Porcino

  In this spacious California galley kitchen from real estate agent and interior designer Julian Porcino, a neutral palette mixed with natural wood and industrial touches creates a streamlined look. A pair of windows, a glass double door leading to the outside, and bright white walls and ceiling paint keeps the galley kitchen feeling light and bright. Apart from a floor-to-ceiling block of cabinetry at the far end built to house the refrigerator and provide extra storage, upper cabinetry was omitted to preserve a feeling of openness.

• 08
  of 45

  Add a Breakfast Bar

  Design by deVOL Kitchens

  Many galley kitchens have a window at the far end to let in natural light and air. If you’ve got the space, adding a place to sit and have a cup of coffee, or to take a load off while performing meal prep will make it more comfortable and functional. In this small galley-style kitchen in a Georgian style apartment in Bath, England, designed by deVOL Kitchens, a small cafe-style breakfast bar is built right next to the window.

• 09
  of 45

  Add Some Color

  Design by Cathie Hong Interiors / Photo by Margaret Austin Photo

  In this midcentury modern California home kitchen renovation from Cathie Hong Interiors, robin’s egg blue cabinetry helps define the galley kitchen that opens up into an eat-in dining space.

• 10
  of 45

  Open It Up

  Design by Alvin Wayne

  One way to modernize a galley style kitchen is to knock down one wall and add peninsula seating like this compact NYC space from interior designer Alvin Wayne that opens up the living area and increases light and views.

• 11
  of 45

  Maximize a Tiny Space

  Fantastic Frank

  Sometimes less is just enough. This compact Stockholm kitchen from Fantastic Frank maximizes every last centimeter of space by going vertical with open shelving and cabinetry. Small appliances and simple materials make the petite space perfectly functional, no renovation required.

• 12
  of 45

  Add Black Cabinetry

  Design by Cathie Hong Interiors / Photo by Amber Thrane

  In this modern galley-style San Diego, CA, kitchen from Cathie Hong Interiors, black lower cabinets on both sides of the wide kitchen add a grounding element that anchors the light and bright space. A simple gray tile floor, stainless steel appliances, and bronze accents complete the clean design.

• 13
  of 45

  Add Statement Flooring

  Design by Matthew Carter Interiors

  The star element of this spacious galley kitchen from Lexington, Kentucky-based by Matthew Carter Interiors is the bold graphic parquet floor in a mix of pale and dark wood that adds personality and makes it memorable and inviting. A line of drop pendant ceiling lights emphasizes the long linear galley space while adding vintage charm.

• 14
  of 45

  Mix Color and Pattern

  Design by Pluck / Photo by Malcolm Menzies

  Bold turquoise paint and a black-and-white checkerboard floor adds contrast to the original brick wall and adds retro vibes to this London kitchen from Pluck.

• 15
  of 45

  Use Floor Tile to Define Space

  Design by Caroline Andreoni Interior Design Studio / Photo by Sophie Lloyd

  Caroline Andréoni Interior Design Studio created a galley-style kitchen by positioning blocks of lower cabinetry opposite one another, defining the space with graphic diamond-patterned floor tile. A glass and metal atelier window creates a separation from the rest of the space while letting light flow through. And an accent wall of tropical wallpaper adds a focal point.

• 16
  of 45

  Add a Galley-Style Wing

  Design by Marie Flanigan Interiors

  Even in a large scale kitchen, adding a galley kitchen-style wing can make practical sense to create zones and make the overall space more efficient, like this spacious all-white space from Marie Flanigan Interiors.

• 17
  of 45

  Incorporate Negative Space

  Design by Pluck / Photo by Malcolm Menzies

  In this galley-style London kitchen from Pluck, the pass-through meal prep area has a block of mustard-colored lower cabinetry on both sides, but upper cabinetry confined to one side, leaving room for wall-mounted lighting and incorporating some negative space above the left wall of cabinetry that allows the room to breathe.

• 18
  of 45

  Add a Colorful Runner

  Design by Desiree Burns Interiors

  A colorful blue runner on the dark hardwood floors of this galley kitchen from Desiree Burns Interiors creates a focal point in the functional, all-white space.

• 19
  of 45

  Create a Breakfast Bar

  Design by Neva Interior Design / Photo by Agathe Tissier

  Neva Interior Design carved a compact galley kitchenette beneath the loft space in this 200-square-foot Parisian apartment that is practical and efficient, leaving room for small breakfast bar on the periphery.

• 20
  of 45

  Highlight Natural Wood

  Design by Pluck / Photo by Malcolm Menzies

  In this galley-style British kitchen from Pluck, hardwood floors and natural wood cabinetry add warmth that complements soft shades of white and industrial black accents like the metal-grid glass doors leading out to the garden.

• 21
  of 45

  Use a Galley Style Layout to Structure an Open Space

  Design by Will Brown Interiors

  Using a galley-style layout is one way to structure a modern open plan kitchen, like this one from Will Brown Interiors that pairs a wall of cabinetry and appliances with a kitchen island housing the sink and additional storage opposite, with a central walkway that preserves flow with the rest of the room.

• 22
  of 45

  Work Around the Window

  Design by Velinda Hellen for Emily Henderson Design / Photo by Veronica Crawford

  On the opposite side of this galley-style kitchen designed by Velinda Hellen for Emily Henderson Design, the sink is positioned beneath a window that floods the narrow space with natural light. A wood-framed glass back door provides more light and views to the outside, to help prevent the space from feeling cramped.

• 23
  of 45

  Limit Upper Cabinetry

  Fantastic Frank

  This compact galley kitchen from Fantastic Frank retains a minimal feel by focusing the storage space on lower cabinetry, and adding airy white and wood open shelving to just one wall. A large French window provides plenty of natural light and a view of greenery that keeps the small space from feeling claustrophobic, and soothing gray paint and Edison bulb pendant lights add softness to the minimal space.

• 24
  of 45

  Use Vertical Space

  Design by Velinda Hellen for Emily Henderson Design / Photo by Veronica Crawford

  In this galley-style kitchen designed by Velinda Hellen for Emily Henderson Design, one wall features floor-to-ceiling built-ins around the oven that maximizes vertical space.

• 25
  of 45

  Make It Seamless

  Design by Will Brown Interiors

  This galley-style kitchen from Will Brown Interiors is tucked out of the way of the dining space while remaining easily accessible, with simple cabinetry, tones of gray, and hardwood flooring carried throughout the space that allows it to seamlessly blend into the rest of the decor.

• 26
  of 45

  Add a Waterfall Edge Countertop

  Design by Yael Weiss Interiors

  This sleek and streamlined Tribeca kitchen from NYC-based Yael Weiss Interiors has a waterfall edge stone countertop that adds polish to the neutral space with floor-to-ceiling built-ins in pale colors and high ceilings that creates an open and airy feel.

• 27
  of 45

  Add a Dropped Ceiling

  Design by Alvin Wayne

  In this opened up NYC galley kitchen from interior designer Alvin Wayne, a dropped ceiling adds an opportunity for built-in can lighting and helps define the space while preserving sightlines.

• 28
  of 45

  Use Pastel Colors

  Design by deVOL Kitchens

  In this galley kitchen designed by deVOL Kitchens, a large cased opening allows natural light from the adjacent room to flow in. To maximize space, the designers ran cabinetry and a built-in hood vent all the way up to the ceiling. A soft palette of off white, mint green, and natural wood keeps it feeling light and airy.

• 29
  of 45

  Shut the Door

  Fantastic Frank

  This galley kitchen from Fantastic Frank has a solid wood door for privacy and a wall of windows that floods the tight space with natural light. A neutral palette of whites and pale woods creates a natural, fresh feel.

• 30
  of 45

  Create an End Point

  Design by Twelve15 Design Studio

  In this galley-style kitchen from Twelve15 Design Studio, a small peninsula on one side creates an end point that helps define the space from the rest of the room while providing a space for breakfasts on the go.

• 31
  of 45

  Add Bold Graphics

  Design by Brady Tolbert for Emily Henderson Design / Photo by Tessa Neustadt

  In this galley-style kitchen designed by Brady Tolbert for Emily Henderson Design, a bold black-and-white palette creates a graphic look, from the towering retro-style refrigerator to the wall decor and flooring.

  32 Kitchen Floor Ideas That Are Stylish and Functional

• 32
  of 45

  Add Gold-Toned Accents

  Design by Brady Tolbert for Emily Henderson Design / Photo by Tessa Neustadt

  Gold-toned plumbing fixtures and hardware on cabinetry and open shelving add a light touch to this graphic black-and-white galley-style kitchen designed by Brady Tolbert for Emily Henderson Design.

• 33
  of 45

  Keep It Flowing

  Fantastic Frank

  Running the same hardwood flooring throughout the entire home gives this small Swedish pass-through galley kitchen from Fantastic Frank an effortless flow.

• 34
  of 45

  Add Peekaboo Shelving

  Design by Maite Granda

  Interior designer Maite Granda carved an efficient galley kitchen into a sprawling Florida home that is partially divided off from the main living space with peekaboo shelving and long, narrow windows above the sink and high up near the ceiling above the cabinets to let in natural light. If you don’t have the option of installing windows in your galley kitchen, try a mirrored backsplash instead.

• 35
  of 45

  Mix and Match

  Design by deVOL Kitchens

  While many galley kitchens use matching blocks of cabinetry on both sides, in this open space converted schoolhouse kitchen from deVOL Kitchens, a galley-style cooking area is defined with an industrial metal kitchen island housing the sink and stovetop on one side and a row of countertops and built-in wood cabinetry on the other.

• 36
  of 45

  Work Around the Architecture

  Design and Photo by Officine Gullo

  This Tuscan kitchen from Italy’s Officine Gullo is painted in sunflower yellow and outfitted with high end steel and chrome-plated brass appliances, adding contrast to the rustic bones of the galley-style space with its warm wood ceiling beams and original stone wall.

• 37
  of 45

  Shut the Back Door

  Design by Rashida Banks for Emily Henderson Design / Photo by Keyanna Bowen

  In this kitchen designed by Rashida Banks for Emily Henderson Design, a black slate floor defines the galley kitchen space and adds contrast with the natural wood and glass back door.

  Best Kitchen Design Software

• 38
  of 45

  Add a Vintage Touch

  Design by Mindy Gayer Design Co.

  A vintage-style runner adds a timeless element to this classic all-white kitchen from Mindy Gayer Design Co., with a galley-like central workspace housing the sink and oven and a massive built-in refrigerator relegated to the far wall.

• 39
  of 45

  Add Texture

  Design by deVOL Kitchens

  In this streamlined and contemporary galley-style kitchen designed by Sebastian Cox for deVOL Kitchens, black wood cabinetry with a Shou Sugi Ban aesthetic adds texture, depth, and contrast against the pale walls and flooring. The room’s abundance of natural light keeps the dark wood from feeling heavy.

• 40
  of 45

  Set a Table for Two

  Fantastic Frank

  This partially deconstructed Swedish galley kitchen from Fantastic Frank has cabinetry and appliances on opposite walls that work around the irregular bones of the room, leaving space for a cozy bistro-style table for two at the far end beneath the large window that floods the space with natural light.

• 41
  of 45

  Create a Through Line

  Design by deVOL Kitchens

  In this Victorian villa from deVOL Kitchens, a long, wide pass-through galley-style kitchen includes opposite walls of cabinetry and appliances on the far end, and space for a dining table and sofa on the other. Classic checkerboard flooring links the space and the layout of furniture and built-ins allows enough room for a central corridor that preserves flow, making the cozy space functional.

• 42
  of 45

  Keep It Light and Bright

  Fantastic Frank

  This understated Scandinavian kitchen from Fantastic Frank has practical floor-to-ceiling built-in cabinetry, warm wood countertops, and a soft white palette that blends seamlessly with the adjoining dining area that is flooded with natural light from a large window. A bright yellow pendant light adds a focal point above the dining table.

• 43
  of 45

  Add Intrigue to the Floor

  Design by Neva Interior Design / Photo by Agathe Tissier

  In this long, narrow Paris apartment, Neva Interior Design built a an open galley kitchen with a penny tile floor that blends into the hardwood floors of the main space, and preserves the flow of a narrow central walkway leading to the front door.

• 44
  of 45

  Embrace Irregularities

  Fantastic Frank

  This galley-style Scandinavian kitchen from Fantastic Frank is built around the irregular curves of the existing architecture, with appliances and countertops that hug the curve of the walls in order to maximize space while leaving enough room to circulate.

• 45
  of 45

  Honor Historical Character

  Design by Julian Porcino

  This adobe-style home and Los Angeles historical landmark built in 1922 from estate agent and interior designer Julian Porcino features a carefully updated galley-style kitchen that honors the original character of the home.

52 Small Kitchen Ideas That Prove That Less Is More

Kitchen design in galley style – compactness and mega-practicality – Articles – Small Spaces

Equip your kitchen in your apartment like on a cruise ship!

When planning a kitchen design, you often face the problem of how to place cabinets in the interior so that it is not only convenient, but also cozy. And no matter what size it is – large or small, narrow or wide – you want to place kitchen cabinets in such a way that, as they say, everything is at hand. We would like to suggest you one option, which, in our opinion, is ideal for any area. This is a galley style kitchen. Yes Yes. Exactly the same as on the ship.

What is galley kitchen design?

According to Wikipedia, a galley is a room on a ship specially equipped for cooking. Simply put, a galley is a ship’s kitchen. And since the premises on the ship most often have limited space, all the furniture for the kitchen at the cook (ship cook) was located on both sides – that is, it had a linear arrangement. This arrangement was very convenient, compact and practical.

The galley style on land has been adopted by professional chefs in restaurants and cafes, borrowing the idea of ​​a linear layout for the kitchen from their marine counterparts. And if so, then why don’t we use this idea and create something similar in our house?

The galley style, as already mentioned, is perfect for kitchen interiors of any size. If your kitchen is wide and large, then a linear arrangement of cabinets will make the space more organized, efficient and clear. If it is narrow or small, it will visually expand it with the help of the right color scheme for cabinets and walls.

Well, how did you decide to try? Then see our ideas and get inspired!

Modern galley

Glossy sets are a great idea for a galley style kitchen. This modernized version of cabinets and bedside tables will create the illusion of spaciousness in a small kitchen space. The effect of gloss can be enhanced with spotlights. This method of reflective surfaces can be applied over large areas.

By removing “out of sight” all unnecessary things from the surfaces of cabinets, you will not only create a modern and minimalist kitchen interior, but also increase the space in this way.

Galley in open kitchens

Large kitchen spaces combined with living or dining rooms can just as easily be adapted to the style of the galley. The kitchen design in the photo above shows that the suite does not have to have a standard set of cabinets and cabinets. It can also be decorated as an island with a dining area. And all the rest that is needed for galley decoration is to stick to the parallel installation of headset cabinets.

Important details and simple tricks

Light furniture for the kitchen, the use of sets that do not have handles, wooden floors, glass doors, large windows… All these details “work” for ease of movement and to expand the space in the interior kitchens.

Country & Rustic

The parallel galley layout is also perfect for rustic, country or farmhouse styles. Feel free to use all the elements and details of these rural styles in your kitchen design. Natural wood sets, wicker baskets, open shelves, thick textiles – all these details will make your galley bright and fresh. Parallel cabinet layouts, large windows, vintage décor, light furniture and an emphasis on natural materials are a great idea for a small kitchen.

Small space galley

There can always be exceptions to every rule. That’s for the galley too. For example, the absence of one of the parallel sides. Someone may object that then it will no longer be a galley, but no – it’s him, he’s just not quite ordinary – urban, one might say, a galley. It’s just that the second side did not fit into the small narrow interior of the kitchen. But on the other hand, the parallel empty wall, covered with brick-like wallpaper, contrasts favorably with the light color palette of the rest of the interior.

Total White

Decorating your kitchen in white galley style is a pretty budget kitchen design option. This simple, but at the same time sophisticated stylish space is an example of how, without additional decor, you can visually enlarge the interior of a small kitchen and make it cozy with a combination of light natural wood and live plants and flowers.

Kitchen-galley – ideal for a small area

Small narrow space – what is it, punishment, or a great field for design ideas to fly? The kitchen-galley will be the best option in the cramped circumstances of a small area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe room.

What is a galley kitchen

If the room is narrow and small, then experts advise to equip the kitchen in two rows running parallel to each other, with a passage between them. Such a design of a place for cooking is customary on sea vessels, where conditions do not allow you to “swing”, and you have to save every centimeter of space. This is where the name “kitchen-galley” comes from. There are two types of such rooms:

– Passage, when there is a door or a doorway to another room in the end part of the room. This method of arranging space allows you to create a kitchen anywhere if there is not enough space for it in the apartment – in the hall, corridor, other narrow and long rooms.

– Impassable when the end of the kitchen is a wall or window. If you have enough space, you can create a U-shaped kitchen, saving and taking into account every scrap of free space.

Both galley kitchen methods are widely used by designers because they have their own distinct advantages.

Advantages and disadvantages of galley kitchens

Many apartments, especially old layouts, do not require space in the kitchen. The design of galley kitchens allows you to solve the following tasks:

– make available all the necessary kitchen appliances and fixtures – stove, sink, refrigerator, without cluttering up the space;

– to help equip the kitchen in any chosen place, if the necessary communications are available;

– arrange in any style;

– make two rows running parallel to each other, of different lengths, so that there is room for the dining area;

– do not litter the room, make it as spacious and free as possible.

The disadvantages of galley kitchens include the following disadvantages:

– The layout must take into account safety requirements. The width of the passage should be about 1.2 m, so that households can freely pass by the person preparing food without the risk of getting burned by hot food or drinks. Too large a distance between rows, more than 1.8 m, is considered not ergonomic, since it will take a lot of time to move from one cabinet to another. It is forbidden to make a passage between rows of less than 90 cm if more than one person lives in the apartment.

– Suitable only for small kitchens, large spaces will look out of place.

– The upper layout, when all the shelves and cabinets are moved to the ceiling, can visually clutter up the room, make it low.

– Cabinets and shelves are made narrow to save space. To fit a refrigerator, dishwasher and washing machine into such a galley kitchen, you will have to look for narrow models that will not stand out from the general range. The stove in such kitchens is also small, usually having only two burners instead of four.

If you take a thoughtful approach to space planning, you can independently create and implement a room project where everything will stand in its place, household members will not interfere with each other, and the kitchen will be beautiful, functional and ergonomic.

Placement of the working triangle

The main point in planning any kitchen is the placement of three main items in it – a sink, a stove and a refrigerator. They should create a “working triangle” in which you can freely turn around and reach for the right thing. For walk-through galley kitchens, the solution of this issue is especially important so that a child passing by the stove does not get burned by the food being prepared. The ideal would be to place the stove, sink and main work area in one row, and the refrigerator in another, opposite them. Such a layout will maximally protect households from the likelihood of injury when in contact with the hot surface of pots or pans.

Length of rows in galley kitchen

When every centimeter counts, one row in the kitchen can be made shorter than the other to accommodate a small dining table or bar counter in the freed up space. This layout is a great way to separate the working and dining areas, with minimal free space. A short row should contain minimally traumatic items – a refrigerator, a microwave oven, cabinets and drawers with rarely used utensils.

Using a window sill or end wall

A galley kitchen is often a narrow space with a window at the end. Designers recommend in no case to litter and clutter it up – in a small cramped room there should be as much light and air as possible so that it looks sunny and bright. The window sill area can be used as an additional work or dining surface, and then the galley kitchen will become U-shaped.

If the room does not have sources of natural light, and the end surface is a blank wall, then it must be decorated. The look of a person who comes to the galley kitchen rests on the wall, and it needs to be decorated with taste. You can hang a clock, a picture, a narrow shelf with decorative beautiful dishes on it, put an unusual waste bin or a stepladder. Sometimes the end surface serves as a continuation of the main workspace; cabinets and shelves with kitchen utensils are placed on it. With this method of arranging free space, you need to make sure that the room does not look like cluttered, cluttered furniture.

Cupboards and shelves in the galley kitchen

In a small area, cabinets and shelves are best made not hinged, but retractable, especially those located on the lower tier – this will make it much easier to get to kitchen utensils and utensils. On the top tier, designers suggest placing open shelving in order to minimize the chance of hitting your head on the door to a person who enters the kitchen. It is best to equip drawers with a push-to-open system, without handles.