- Galley kitchens are designed for practicality and easy cooking
- They often have a window view that makes them beautiful to look at
- A mix of colors can make them more interesting to look at- check out our favorite gray kitchen cabinetry ideas!
- Adding plants can make the space more functional
- Old-school farmhouse style kitchens can be galley kitchens too!
- Check out some of our favorite small, modern kitchen ideas for added inspiration!
Our galley kitchen was in desperate need of a renovation. The layout was cramped and outdated, and the colors were drab and dull.
We weren’t sure how to make it prettier or more functional, but we knew we wanted it to be perfect for our home.
We started by removing the old cabinets and appliances. We then painted the walls a bright white to create a blank canvas.
We decided to go with a blue and white theme, with light blue upper cabinets and navy blue lower cabinets. We added some silver accents to break up the colors and give the kitchen a modern feel.
We replaced the old appliances with shiny new ones, and we added a window seat with storage to provide extra seating and storage space. We also added a built-in wine rack to store our favorite bottles of wine.
The new kitchen is now both pretty and functional, and we love spending time in there cooking up our favorite meals. Thanks to our talented contractor, our Galley kitchen is now one of the best rooms in our home!
Galley Kitchen Ideas & Plans
Sometimes, when referencing galley kitchen ideas, the picture of a hallway-style layout comes to mind. On one side, there could be a refrigerator and sink with some counter space and cabinets while on the other side is the stove and additional cabinetry. However, not all galley kitchens are set up this way.
Sometimes everything is on one side as a straight line. Either way, these are among the easiest kitchen setups to work with, especially if it happens to be a small one. Many restaurants are set up with a galley-style kitchen where the line cooks work exactly as the title suggests.
The easy side-step from one station to another allows a single cook to quickly zip back and forth effortlessly. If there are two or more cooks in the line, each will stand in their own station and pass the food from its starting line to the finish before it is ready for pickup. This is usually how it’s done in commercial kitchens, industrial kitchens, military kitchens, and school kitchens.
Especially in smaller homes with limited spacing, there are galley kitchens that can almost pass for L-shaped kitchens. However, the extension from the I-shape to the L-shape usually involves a sink or an appliance of some kind to achieve this look.
1. Class It Up
When you have a galley kitchen setup that leaves no room to make it anything but, make the most out of it by classing up its overall appearance. The white cabinetry features a great contrast from the black countertops and handles.
If white isn’t your thing, go with off-white or another pale shade that best suits your sense of style.
2. Cottage Living
Usually, an old cottage will have a galley-style kitchen where almost everything is lined up against the wall. Across from it might feature a cooking or dining station.
The beauty of this layout is one can mix and match between the worlds of classic and contemporary in a kitchen that benefits from this bright design.
3. Doin’ It All
When a home’s kitchen is so small that it also has to double as an entry room and laundry facility, giving it a great contrast of colors with an eclectic sense of style can turn what would otherwise look like a claustrophobic eyesore into a room of beauty.
4. Fridged
The perfect galley kitchen should have a fridge serve as a bridge between the one side to the other, preferably at the end of the road.
The convenience of its location means it is not in the way but is easily accessible enough to grab what you need as you alternate between stations, prepping whatever delicious meal you have in mind.
The floor-to-ceiling cabinetry is always a win, maximizing the amount of space you have no matter what the actual size.
5. Go Blue
This galley kitchen idea makes the most out of a small room that doesn’t give much space for a bigger layout. Just because it’s small doesn’t mean it can’t have a contrast of color between the blue cupboards and the white decor that dictates the rest of the kitchen’s design.
In this pic, the kitchen sink overlooks the window with the beautiful blue cabinetry and framing to add color without going overboard. If you love to cook but don’t have the room for a big kitchen, the old-school stove-top gives off a hint of yesteryear while the double-decker oven next to it allows you to bake bread in one while roasting turkey in another.
With floor-to-ceiling cabinetry, you definitely make the most out of what would otherwise be a heavily confined area.
6. Mix and Match
For a galley kitchen idea, if you’re into a color contrast where the upper cupboards are in white while the lower is in blue, this could be the style for you. Break it up with silver appliances and a silver sink and you have a good layout of a functional room that is colorful enough to make it seem less boring but not so much that it seems outlandish.
7. Old School
Once upon a time, farmhouses featured kitchens that were designed galley style. Whether this part of the house was big or small it didn’t matter. Practicality was the key focus as the idea was to make the life of the person responsible for all the cooking as easy as possible.
When such kitchens have a window view, which most of them do, they can literally become a thing of beauty. As usual, white is a favorite color choice as it not only looks classier but it adds extra light to a room that usually needs as much of it as it can get.
When contrasting that white with great colors, like blues and browns, you have yourself the perfect recipe that gives design magazines the inspiration they seek to give it the hype it deserves.
8. Passing Through
When passing through the galley kitchen, perhaps improving the view on both sides with a mix of tastefully contrasting colors is the way to do it.
9. Plant Ahead
Perhaps on one side, you have the sink and dishwasher, plus some counter space while the other has the stove and refrigerator. What do you do with that small space at the end of the row that doesn’t allow enough room for a little two-seater bistro?
One idea is to put in place either an accent table that can feature a collection of plants on it or even a shelving space where you can make the most out of such a small area. As for the plant idea, if you happen to live in an apartment that has a great window that allows lots of light to shine through, you can easily grow some herbs here.
You can even get away with easy-to-grow edible plants such as lettuce, peppers, and tomato.
10. Two-Seater
The most common residential galley kitchens are usually built smaller and don’t leave much room to expand beyond their limited spacing. You can, however, remodel your kitchen where some of it can pass as a coffee bar, allowing up to two people to seat themselves in the kitchen. In fact, that’s what we did in our kitchen- we both love having a dedicated coffee nook!
This may come in handy if you need to sit down for a moment as you wait for the pot of water to boil. Instead of wandering off to another room where you may forget about it, you can watch it as you sip a cup of coffee and skim through the pages of a cooking magazine.
11. Woodsy
The contemporary look always has a way of staying in style no matter what. Even with wood, a modernized look can easily add so much extra character to a home, including its kitchen. As a galley kitchen idea, take a step away from the traditional and kick it up a notch or two.
Galley kitchen design tips & accessorizing ideas
Install a kitchen island to create more counter space and storage
A kitchen island is a great way to add extra counter space and storage to your kitchen. islands come in a variety of sizes and styles, so you can find one that fits your needs and your budget.
You can choose an island that features open shelves for storing cookbooks or dishes, or opt for one with cabinets and drawers for more formal storage. Even small kitchen islands can provide invaluable extra counter space for prepping meals or entertaining guests.
If you have the room, you may even want to consider adding a second sink or stovetop to your island for even more functionality. Whether you’re looking for additional prep space or storage, a kitchen island is a great way to make your kitchen work better for you.
Use open shelving instead of cabinets to display your dishes and cookware
If you’re looking for a way to add interest to your kitchen, consider using open shelving instead of closed cabinets. By displaying your dishes and cookware on open shelves, you can create a focal point in the room while also making it more functional.
Not only will you have easy access to everything you need, but you’ll also be able to show off your favourite pieces. If you’re concerned about dust or grease buildup, simply install shelves that are easy to wipe down. With a little bit of planning, you can transform your kitchen into a stylish and functional space.
Add a backsplash to brighten up the space and protect your walls from spills
One of the quickest and easiest ways to brighten up a kitchen is to add a kitchen backsplash. Not only will it add color and personality to the space, but it will also protect your walls from spills.
Backsplashes are available in a wide range of materials, including glass, tile, and metal. You can also find them in a variety of colors and patterns.
If you’re not sure which backsplash is right for you, consider taking inspiration from your favorite home décor magazines or browsing through online design galleries. With so many options available, you’re sure to find a backsplash that will give your kitchen an instant facelift.
Hang pots and pans on the wall or install a pot rack to save cabinet space
Many modern kitchens are designed with ample cabinet space, but even the most spacious kitchen can start to feel cramped when it’s filled with pots and pans.
If you’re looking for a way to free up some space in your kitchen, consider hanging your pots and pans on the wall or installing a pot rack.
Hanging pots and pans not only saves space, but it can also add a decorative touch to your kitchen. Pot racks come in a variety of styles, so you can choose one that best fits your kitchen’s décor. Whether you opt for a wall-mounted pot rack or a freestanding one, you’ll be glad to have reclaimed some valuable cabinet space.
Choose light-colored cabinetry and appliances for a brighter look
When deciding on what cabinetry and appliances to choose for a kitchen renovation, many people opt for a light color palette in order to create a bright and airy space.
While this can be an effective design choice, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, light-colored surfaces show dirt and fingerprints more easily than dark colors, so they may require more frequent cleaning.
Second, synthetic materials such as laminate or vinyl may yellow over time when exposed to sunlight, so choose natural materials like wood or stone if possible.
Finally, keep in mind that lighter colors can make a small space feel smaller, so if the kitchen is on the smaller side, go for a mid-tone or dark color instead. With these considerations in mind, light-colored cabinetry and appliances can help to create a bright and inviting kitchen.
Use colorful accessories to add personality to the room
Accessories are a great way to add personality to any room. A few well-chosen accessories can completely change the feel of a space, and they can be used to express your personal style.
If you’re looking to add a touch of color to your home, then consider using accessories as a way to do so.
A brightly colored throw pillow or piece of art can really make a statement, and it can be easily changed if you ever get tired of the look. colorful accessories are also a great way to add visual interest to a room. When used in moderation, they can add just the right amount of pop to an otherwise neutral space.
So if you’re looking for a way to add some personality to your home, consider using colorful accessories. With just a few well-chosen pieces, you can completely change the look and feel of any room.
A kitchen island can give you the extra counter space and storage you need to make meal prep a breeze.
If you don’t want to sacrifice style for function, consider using open shelving instead of cabinets to display your dishes and cookware. Adding a backsplash is an easy way to brighten up the space and protect your walls from spills. And if you’re short on cabinet space, hanging pots and pans on the wall or installing a pot rack is a great solution.
When it comes to choosing colors for your kitchen, light-colored cabinetry and appliances will give the room a brighter look. Finally, don’t forget to add personality with colorful accessories. With these tips, you’ll be one step closer to having the kitchen of your dreams!
Hi, my name’s Elena Coolidge. I’m a DIY enthusiast who loves building fun woodworking plans. These DIY plans are fun hobby projects for enthusiasts or even more advanced builders that want to build things like bunk beds, end tables or even a duck box!
