Design Ideas for a Galley Kitchen

This corridor-like design features two parallel walls with two workstations on one side and the third on the other. The arrangement can be quite efficient in smaller spaces, especially if the walls are comfortably close to each other and vertical space is maximized. Galley kitchens also allow long stretches of counter space.

Key

1 - The microwave sits on the countertop.

2 - One wall holds an electric range.

3 - Flooring is sheet vinyl or inexpensive ceramic tile.

4 - A basic double-bowl sink with a two-handle faucet anchors one wall.

5 - A built-in dishwasher is close to the sink.

6 - A top-freezer refrigerator stands at the end of a wall.

7 - Countertops are economical laminate with a matching low-rise backsplash.

8 - Cabinets are builder-grade stock units in a medium or dark wood tone.

Upgrading surfaces without replacing cabinets creates a fresh new look on a modest budget. A rolling table or cart brings the step-saving convenience of an island to the layout when needed—but doesn’t permanently block traffic. Storage upgrades—like a door-mount spice rack and a tiered utensil drawer—help cut counter clutter.

Key

1 - Paint the cabinets and replace the hardware.

2 - Keep the existing appliances.

3 - Add a table island or rolling cart.

4 - Upgrade the countertops and backsplash to marble-look laminate.

5 - Add a two-level drawer organizer for silverware.

6 - Replace the sink with a composite model and add a new faucet.

7 - Install a new window shade.

8 - Upgrade flooring to a wood-look laminate.

9 - Add puck lights under cabinets

10 - Add a door-mount spice rack.

With the addition of a small eating area and a narrow island, this galley kitchen is more of a destination and less of a pass-through. New cabinets, appliances, and surfaces maximize the wow factor while storage features make the space practical as well as pretty. The added prep space allows two or more cooks to work comfortably.

Key

1 - Remove a section of cabinets to create a small eating area.

2 - Install a built-in refrigerator and flank it with tall pantry cabinets.

3 - Replace cabinetry and hardware. Include some glass-front upper cabinets.

4 - Upgrade the countertops and backsplash to granite.

5 - Add a narrow island with a marble top.

6 - Include trash and recycling bins under the sink.

7 - Upgrade to a three-bowl sink system. Add a faucet with a pull-out or pull-down spray.

8 - Step up to a super-quiet dishwasher.

9 - Invest in natural stone flooring.

10 - Add an appliance garage and a built-in spot for the microwave.

11 - Install a gas range with a canopy-style vent hood.

12 - Include custom cookware storage.