From statements rugs to cabinet colors, your narrow space deserves a modern makeover.
A galley kitchen is long and narrow with cabinets along two parallel walls. While some argue that galley kitchens feel crammed and claustrophobic, others find them to be efficient, accessible and great for storage — especially when trying to maximize limited square footage. Due to their tiny nature, galley kitchen layouts are also best if you're working on a budget. Whether you've got a galley kitchen in need of a makeover or you're considering a complete kitchen remodel, we've rounded up stunning galley kitchen ideas that pack a ton of style into small spaces.
Just because you're working with a compact setup, doesn't mean you need to sacrifice beautiful kitchen design. Use shades of bright white, reflective surfaces and natural light to open up small kitchen designs — but don't forget to layer in geometric patterns, open shelving and pops of vibrant color. We've demonstrated how statement kitchen lighting, daring cabinet colors and eclectic floor runners can actually help to create the illusion of more space.
If you're looking to get creative, you'll find inspiration for adorable breakfast nooks and other open galley kitchen layouts — like merging dining and kitchen spaces with island seating. And, if you want clever ways to incorporate 2023 kitchen design trends into your narrow layout, consider colorful backsplashes, overstated hardware and bold kitchen paint colors. Start scrolling to find an idea that fits your home style — there's everything from farmhouse to modern.
1
Focus on Lower Cabinets
Dark lower cabinets help to define a space, while light upper cabinets make a room feel larger by reflecting light. In this Upper East Side kitchen, Bakes & Kropp goes for black lower cabinets with statement hardware — and keeps it minimal up top.
2
Hide the Fridge
From the gold hardware and statement runner to the soothing green cabinetry, interior designer Julia Chasman makes this small space feel so elegant. She even uses built-in cabinets to hide the fridge, which furthers the calm, cohesive feel.
3
Choose a Daring Cabinet Color
Pack style into a small space with vibrant hues and playful patterns — just as Shelby Girard, VP of creative and design at Havenly, does here.
RELATED: Best Kitchen Paint Colors to Try out in 2023
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4
Keep It Light and Bright
Maximize a narrow space with true white cabinets and compact kitchen appliances. Layer in lively details like a Mediterranean tile backsplash, gold hardware and industrial-style lighting.
Read more at Style by Emily Henderson »
RELATED: Stunning Kitchens with White Cabinets
5
Consider Tile Flooring
Make a galley kitchen aisle feel more spacious with chic floor tiles, like this classic herringbone pattern. Here, REFORM pairs the gray flooring with sleek pink cabinetry and minimal light fixtures.
6
Add a Statement Runner
Not only does a colorful runner make a narrow aisle feel spacious, it adds instant warmth and texture to an interior. Take note from Brio Interior Design and go for a vibrant and geometric style.
RELATED: Best Kitchen Rug Ideas to Energize Your Floors
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7
Mix Cabinet Styles
Create visual intrigue by combining cabinet styles and finishes. Here, Reena Sotropa In House Design Group sticks with bright whites on one side but chooses warm woods and black marble for the other.
8
Play With Patterns
From the checkerboard flooring and statement runner to the elegant gold stove and two-tone cabinets, this cheerful kitchen combines various colors and patterns.
9
Build in a Breakfast Nook
At the end of this Greenwich Village kitchen, the Mendelson Group builds a small breakfast nook with just enough seating for two.
RELATED: Charming Breakfast Nook Ideas That’ll Cozy Up Any Small Space in Your Kitchen
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10
Decorate With Lighting
Illuminate your galley kitchen aisle with striking light fixtures. We're loving these chrome globe pendants that Chandos Interiors selected.
RELATED: Best Kitchen Lighting Ideas That Shine in Style
11
Go for a Bold Backsplash
In a galley layout, you can choose to go for a bold backsplash on one or both sides of your kitchen. Recreate this calm interior by Lily Spindle and use eye-catching tilework on only one side.
RELATED: Stylish Kitchen Backsplash Ideas for Every Style and Budget
12
Open Up the Space With Bright Whites
When in doubt, stick with sophisticated white shades — from countertops to cabinetry to molding. Hint: light wood flooring pairs perfectly with an all-white design.
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13
Illuminate Your Prep Station
Paired with open shelving, two adjustable arm sconces brighten up this blue kitchen. Interior designer Tiffany Gowler keeps it light with natural woods and pops of greenery.
14
Fit Extra Seating
If space permits, extend your countertop to create a compact bar area — complete with counter stools. We love how Union of Art Interiors adds a large window that overlooks the landscape to create the illusion of more space.
15
Introduce Open Shelving
Instead of upper cabinets (which can make a narrow space feel more narrow), Julia Chasman uses open shelving for extra storage.
RELATED: Unique Kitchen Organization Ideas for Easy Access and Clutter-Free Storage
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16
Let in Natural Light
Many galley kitchens have a window at the far end, which is a great way to separate a narrow aisle and allow a surge of light to brighten the room. In this sunny space, REFORM settles on pastel blue cabinetry and light wood floors.
17
Keep It Functional
With large appliances and white cabinetry on each side, AMMOR architecture uses a galley kitchen layout in a relatively large space. As you cook, this setup ensures everything is kept within reach.
Alyssa Gautieri
Associate Lifestyle Editor
Alyssa Gautieri (she/her) is the associate lifestyle editor for Good Housekeeping, where she covers all things home and interior design. Prior to joining GH in 2022, she wrote for publications including ELLE Decor, Chairish, BobVila.com, Unique Homes Magazine and LODGING Magazine, in addition to crafting product copy for home brands like BrylaneHome and VIGO Industries.
