Designing A Galley Kitchen

A kitchen with blue and white cabinets with gold hardware and a farmhouse sink

Consumer Information

A narrow kitchen, more commonly referred to as a galley kitchen, can be challenging to create adequate space due to space limitations. Still, with good design and planning, it can become a functional area that meets all the homeowners’ needs. Remember that small and narrow does not mean cramped and lacking style. Today, we are sharing some of our best design tips on how to get the most out of your galley kitchen.

Include The Necessities

While appliances will take up a certain amount of room in the design, there are ways to include what is essential to you while still having sufficient space for storage. Many appliances offer smaller models that still perform but take up less space. Consider using a smaller sink since a large one can take away counter space. Be sure to talk with your designer about what is important to you and the available options.

Utilizing Natural Light

When space is small, allowing natural light into the room can create the illusion of a larger area. Leaving a large window at one end of the kitchen can immediately add warmth and space. A skylight is also always a great option since it takes no space away from the walls yet still allows natural light to pour in.

white kitchen and brown island with hardwood floors

Include A Breakfast Nook

Most would agree that the kitchen is the perfect place to sit down and enjoy a meal, but with a smaller, narrow kitchen space, this is not as easy, but it is not impossible. Consider adding a small seating built-in; this saves valuable space but allows for your morning coffee, afternoon snacks for the kids, and even a small family meal. By saving room through built-ins, more cabinets and storage options are available.

Go Up In Your Galley Kitchen

Floor-to-the-ceiling will be among your best assets in a galley kitchen. Don’t be afraid to utilize the whole wall of the kitchen. By going up, you can maximize storage and use that space to store items that are rarely used. A wall oven can be used in this type of design as well. Another option would be to allow the top cabinets to be glass-fronted so you can display unique dishes as works of art.

Design Tips For A Galley Kitchen

It is not always easy to create the right balance of style and function, but several tips can help bring out the best of the galley kitchen style. Here are a few of our favorites to help spark your creativity.

White cabinets can make the space look more extensive due to their clean and fresh appearance.
A colorful backsplash adds a pop of color and visual interest without taking up space, and it is perfect for adding a personal touch to the design.
Glass-front cabinets open the area up to create a bigger illusion of space.
A larger tile size can help the space seem larger than it is.
Placement is essential, especially if there are multiple people in the kitchen. Think through who will use the space and try to keep certain things together, such as baking supplies and dinner prep. Doing this will help the kitchen run smoothly and efficiently.

Design is key to any space, especially when space is limited. It is a good idea to talk with your designer to achieve a space that is just right for you and your lifestyle. Read a few more tips here.

Functional and Stylish

A narrow galley kitchen never means you lose out on function and style; however, it does require a good designer to achieve this. We have helped multiple clients gain the square footage they needed in a variety of unique layouts and sizes. Our team of designers is experienced in maximizing space in any room, so give us a call to schedule your design meeting, and let’s get that galley kitchen looking stylish and functional.

byStacey Walker/onSeptember 7, 2024/updatedJanuary 28, 2026/inConsumer Information

Consumer Information

Questions About Your Kitchen Remodel: What You Didn’t Know You Needed To Know!

These large-scale opinions are relatively easy for clients to determine early on in their project planning. However, as any distinguished designer can tell you, the small details are just as crucial to achieving your dream kitchen. Here, I will address some issues to consider while planning your kitchen remodel that you may not have thought of.

March 7, 2017/0 Comments/by Stacey Walker

White kitchen cabinets with a brown island and large light fixtures

Walker Woodworking

Design Notes

Two-Toned Kitchen Makes A Statement

If you are considering two colors in your kitchen but are still unsure whether it is worth it or just a passing trend, here are some benefits it can bring to your space.

February 7, 2017/0 Comments/by Stacey Walker

Design Notes

How To Fill Decorative Carvings In Dated Furniture

Most of us have had the experience of going to a garage sale or thrift store and finding a dresser or old furniture that is the right size and shape we’re looking for. The problem is that it may have indents in the wood caused by damage or by decorative carvings that have gone out of style.

January 7, 2017/0 Comments/by Stacey Walker

Walker Woodworking

Design Notes

Designing for Small Areas in the Home

The size of our home can drastically vary from large spaces to limited square footage, which can require creative thinking on both ends, though small areas can present big challenges. Petite homes and apartments may need unique solutions to maximize their potential, but it is not impossible.

November 7, 2016/0 Comments/by Stacey Walker

Consumer Information

Budgeting for your Dream Kitchen

Budgeting is the most critical task when tackling any remodeling project. Each piece of your remodel will have a different cost, and having a plan before beginning the buying process is crucial to preventing overspending.

October 7, 2016/0 Comments/by Stacey Walker