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12 galley kitchen ideas

By Ellie Reeves | 22nd January 2025 | 6 min read

A galley kitchen is all about making the most of what you’ve got. With its efficient, no-nonsense layout, this design is perfect for smaller spaces. Parallel counters keep everything within reach, making cooking a breeze. Interested in learning more about the other kitchen layouts out there? Check out our kitchen layout guide for some advice.

Illustration of a galley kitchen showing parallel kitchen cabinets and an orange triangle showing the "kitchen working triangle".Illustration of a galley kitchen showing parallel kitchen cabinets and an orange triangle showing the "kitchen working triangle".Illustration of a galley kitchen showing parallel kitchen cabinets and an orange triangle showing the "kitchen working triangle".Illustration of a galley kitchen showing parallel kitchen cabinets and an orange triangle showing the "kitchen working triangle".

What is a galley kitchen?

A galley kitchen is a layout designed with efficiency in mind, typically featuring two parallel runs of cabinets and countertops that create a corridor-like space. Named after the compact kitchens found on ships, it’s a smart choice for making the most of smaller areas.

Light pink and grey galley kitchen.Light pink and grey galley kitchen.Light pink and grey galley kitchen.Light pink and grey galley kitchen.

1. Maximise your layout with clever zoning

A galley kitchen thrives on organisation. Divide your space into distinct zones for prepping, cooking, and cleaning to streamline your workflow. Keep your sink, oven, and fridge within easy reach – the classic "kitchen triangle" rule works wonders here. Discover more about the "kitchen triangle" in our layout guide.

Blue galley kitchen with blue cabinetry, blue walls and light wooden flooring.Blue galley kitchen with blue cabinetry, blue walls and light wooden flooring.Blue galley kitchen with blue cabinetry, blue walls and light wooden flooring.Blue galley kitchen with blue cabinetry, blue walls and light wooden flooring.

2. Go bold with colour

A pop of bold colour can add serious personality to your galley kitchen. Try painting one wall in a rich shade like emerald green or deep navy to draw the eye and create a sense of depth. Balance it out with light-toned cabinetry to keep the space open and airy. Bonus points for matching accessories to tie the look together!

Grey galley kitchen with statement pendant lights above breakfast bar.Grey galley kitchen with statement pendant lights above breakfast bar.Grey galley kitchen with statement pendant lights above breakfast bar.Grey galley kitchen with statement pendant lights above breakfast bar.

3. Add a touch of glamour with lighting

The right lighting can make or break a kitchen. Pendant lights above a dining area add elegance, while under-cabinet LED strips are perfect for task lighting. Choose warm, inviting tones to create a cosy vibe, or cool white lights for a crisp, modern feel. Either way, your kitchen will shine – quite literally.

Dark grey galley kitchen with gold effect mosaic tiled splashback.Dark grey galley kitchen with gold effect mosaic tiled splashback.Dark grey galley kitchen with gold effect mosaic tiled splashback.Dark grey galley kitchen with gold effect mosaic tiled splashback.

4. Choose integrated appliances

Bulky appliances can quickly overwhelm a smaller kitchen, so opt for integrated options. Built-in dishwashers, fridges, and ovens not only save space but also keep things sleek and uncluttered.

Blue and white galley kitchen with white gloss cabinets.Blue and white galley kitchen with white gloss cabinets.Blue and white galley kitchen with white gloss cabinets.Blue and white galley kitchen with white gloss cabinets.

5. Mirror your way to more space

Mirrors, reflective splashbacks, or glossy cabinets can work wonders in a narrow kitchen. By bouncing light around the room, these finishes create a sense of depth and openness. If mirrors feel too bold, opt for high-shine surfaces for a light-enhancing effect.

White kitchen with tall storage cabinets and integrated appliances.White kitchen with tall storage cabinets and integrated appliances.White kitchen with tall storage cabinets and integrated appliances.White kitchen with tall storage cabinets and integrated appliances.

6. Go vertical with storage

When floor space is tight, it’s time to look up. Tall cupboards, open shelves, or even overhead racks can provide plenty of storage without encroaching on your floor space.

Wooden sliding door in a hallway.Wooden sliding door in a hallway.Wooden sliding door in a hallway.Wooden sliding door in a hallway.

7. Install a sliding door

Traditional doors can take up valuable space, especially in narrow layouts. A sliding or pocket door is a smart alternative, opening up the kitchen and improving the flow between rooms. It’s a simple swap that can make your kitchen feel more connected to the rest of your home.

Close up of a kitchen drawer full of storage jars and containers, separated by drawer dividers.Close up of a kitchen drawer full of storage jars and containers, separated by drawer dividers.Close up of a kitchen drawer full of storage jars and containers, separated by drawer dividers.Close up of a kitchen drawer full of storage jars and containers, separated by drawer dividers.

8. Keep clutter at bay

Nothing makes a galley kitchen feel smaller than messy worktops. Invest in drawer dividers, pull-out shelves, and under-sink organisers to keep counters clear and essentials close by. A tidy kitchen isn’t just practical – it’s instantly more inviting.

White galley kitchen with large window at the end letting plenty of natural daylight in to the room.White galley kitchen with large window at the end letting plenty of natural daylight in to the room.White galley kitchen with large window at the end letting plenty of natural daylight in to the room.White galley kitchen with large window at the end letting plenty of natural daylight in to the room.

9. Make use of natural light

Natural light can work wonders in a kitchen, creating a brighter, more open feel. Keep window coverings minimal with sheer blinds, voiles, or frosted glass. For an extra boost, position your sink or prep area by the window to soak up all that daylight.

White kitchen with a black compact bar dining set.

10. Choose slimline furniture

If you’ve got space for a breakfast bar or seating, keep it slim and sleek. Slimline stools or foldable tables are great options for galley kitchens, offering functionality without adding bulk. A compact dining set is a smart choice that’s big on style and small on space.

Green galley kitchen with light grey cabinetry and light grey laminate flooring.Green galley kitchen with light grey cabinetry and light grey laminate flooring.Green galley kitchen with light grey cabinetry and light grey laminate flooring.Green galley kitchen with light grey cabinetry and light grey laminate flooring.

11. Think about flooring

Flooring isn’t just about function – it sets the tone for your kitchen. Go for horizontal planks or tiles to make the space feel bigger, or inject some energy with bold diagonal patterns. Want a seamless look? Extend your flooring into nearby rooms for a smooth flow throughout.

Galley kitchen with green cabinets, black worktops, light green walls and light laminate wood flooring.Galley kitchen with green cabinets, black worktops, light green walls and light laminate wood flooring.Galley kitchen with green cabinets, black worktops, light green walls and light laminate wood flooring.Galley kitchen with green cabinets, black worktops, light green walls and light laminate wood flooring.

12. Keep it cohesive

Avoid visual overload by sticking to a unified colour palette. Choose materials that complement each other for a polished, put-together feel. Whether you prefer a modern or traditional style, keep it consistent for a stylish space.