Gorgeous Galley Kitchen Ideas to Maximize Your Small Space (2024)

FAQs

How do you maximize space in a small galley kitchen? ›

You can add additional storage space through wall organizers, shelving units, and hooks underneath your cabinets. For an efficient small galley kitchen, optimize space by using cabinet storage, a custom microwave drawer, and wall organizers.

Backsplash materials

For example, stainless steel creates depth, and a sleek look— patterned tiles add decoration, and a white backsplash makes a small space look bigger. If you want to add some extra layers to your galley kitchen design, a mosaic kitchen backsplash is a perfect choice.

U-Shape Kitchen

As far as layouts go, a U-shaped kitchen is one of the most popular. This plan is a good option whether you have a tiny or big kitchen. A U-shape kitchen is ideal because it provides adequate storage space and has benchtops on three of the four sides.

To ensure that the space doesn't look too cramped, try creating the impression of an overall taller design. Consider adding subtle decorative lighting below and above the cabinets; this will illuminate the floor and ceiling and expand your galley kitchen visually.

We suggest sticking to neutral hues, with colourful accents to add vibrancy. White or grey galley kitchens are a stylish choice and look particularly striking in compact spaces. Another trick is to anchor your kitchen with dark coloured base cabinets and lighter shades on your wall cabinets and surfaces.

A countertop extension can significantly open up an otherwise restricting galley kitchen if you regularly entertain and like to gather together as a family. By placing a countertop between the kitchen and the dining room, you create the perfect entertainment space that provides increased service and storage options.

For a typical galley layout, McFadden suggests putting the refrigerator on one end, a pantry (if there is one) and wall ovens on the other end, with the sink and cooktop centered in the middle on opposite walls. If the kitchen is wide enough, he recommends putting the cooktop directly across from the sink.

"Geometric shapes and patterns hold a special place in my heart on kitchen backsplashes," says Minister. "Hexagons and herringbone's patterns don't seem to ever go out of style.

For all decades, a white backsplash is the most popular choice for all kitchen types. From classic subway tiles to modern hexagons, from luxurious marbles to glamorous glass, white backsplash comes in a wide range of material, shapes, and style options.

How do you make a small kitchen look bigger with a backsplash? ›

Match counters to backsplashes

Connect your small kitchen backsplash and countertops visually to create a streamlined look. Matching the colors simplifies the space, creating large visual areas that make the room feel spacious. Use the same paint color or the same material for the backsplash and the counter.

One-Wall Kitchen Layout

From a chef's perspective, a one-wall configuration is a less efficient working layout for a kitchen, especially in a larger space, because it requires many steps to get from point A to point B.

The one-wall kitchen layout is a very practical choice for small kitchen layouts usually seen in homes and condos. Everything you need to access will be installed on one wall, creating a very efficient design for everyday use.

An L-shaped kitchen is a popular layout because it is among the most cost-effective to build and most efficient to use. This floor plan fits into one corner of a kitchen, creating an out-of-the-way work area. An L-shaped kitchen with island adds additional prep area or seating for guests to talk to the cook.

How Much Space Should be Between Cabinets in a Galley Kitchen Design? The minimum distance between cabinet runs is 3 ft. Any less than that you wouldn't be able to open the doors and operate your appliances properly. On the other hand, the optimum distance between cabinet runs would be 4-5 ft.

The Galley Kitchen Design

Characterised by two parallel runs of cabinetry, a galley kitchen layout is often the best solution to long, narrow spaces. Opting for open shelving rather than overhead units on one wall will help prevent your interior from feeling overly enclosed and claustrophobic.