Galley Kitchen Ideas

A single galley kitchen (also known as a one-wall kitchen) is ideal for smaller spaces. This layout features a row of cabinets along just one wall. If you’re looking for small galley kitchen ideas, consider this layout to optimise your floor space.

Larger kitchens can comfortably accommodate a double-galley layout, maximising the floor space. A double design features cabinets on both sides of the room, providing extra storage and additional countertop space. Some double-galley kitchens have an island between to create two aisles. 

Adding a breakfast bar is easy in a galley kitchen layout. Instead of under-counter cabinets, consider leaving a section of worktop free for stools and turning this area into a breakfast bar. Simply tuck the stools away when they’re not needed.

You may think it’s impossible to add a dining table to your galley kitchen, but there are ways to add a space for mealtimes if you want to. Consider adding a narrow table along one wall, perhaps a foldable one, or position a round dining table at the end of the galley.  

If you can comfortably fit an island in the space between your cabinets, consider creating a double galley with two aisles. This trending kitchen layout is stylish and practical, adding extra storage and counter space for food preparation. 

Light, bright colours can create an airy feel in small galley kitchens. Stick 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 for your wall cabinets and surfaces. This dual-toned colour scheme will create a sense of space while delivering an on-trend layered look.

The materials you choose are equally as important as your colour scheme. When planning your galley-style kitchen, consider incorporating glossy elements. The reflective quality of gloss will bring additional light to your kitchen. 

For example, you could pick cabinets or worktops with a gloss finish. You could also choose tiles with a lustrous sheen. Natural textures are another great way to add a sense of space in your kitchen. Consider using wooden worktops or shelving for a biophilic feel that brings the outdoors inside.

It’s easy for your kitchen accessories to slip to the bottom of your to-do list, but your cabinet handles, kitchen taps, and lighting are all important considerations. 

For narrow galley kitchens, consider handleless kitchen cupboards for a sleek, streamlined look that maximises your space. If you have an open-concept galley kitchen, make a splash with statement lighting or get creative with your kitchen flooring.

Open shelving is an excellent choice for galley kitchen designs. Swapping some of your wall cabinets for open shelving opens up the space and provides a place to display everything from ceramics and cookbooks to practical items like utensils and jars of dried ingredients, such as flour and pasta.

Tall cabinets make the best use of vertical space, but too many can make the space feel enclosed, so stick to just a few. Consider adding a larder unit to one of your cabinets to create a pantry for dried goods, or leave the cupboard clear for tall, bulky cleaning supplies like your mop and bucket. 

Consider integrated storage solutions when designing your galley kitchen. Hidden storage, multi-use options, and hanging bars can help you make the most of every nook and cranny available. Ensure you’re using your floor plan to its advantage with clever storage and a mix of solutions.