17 Small Galley Kitchen Remodel Ideas
Transforming a small galley kitchen into a functional and stylish space can seem daunting.
However, with the right design strategies, you can maximize every inch of your kitchen and create a beautiful, efficient space.
In this blog post, I’ll share 17 small galley kitchen remodel ideas to inspire your next project.
Small Galley Kitchen Remodel Ideas
1. Brighten Up with Light Colors
Light colors can completely transform a small galley kitchen, making it feel more spacious and welcoming.
By choosing white or light-colored cabinets, walls, and countertops, the kitchen reflects more light, which in turn brightens up the entire space.
This simple trick not only makes the kitchen appear larger but also creates a clean, modern look.
2. Open Shelving
Open shelving in a small galley kitchen is a game-changer that brings both style and functionality.
Instead of traditional upper cabinets, open shelves create a sense of openness and make the kitchen feel more spacious.
They offer the perfect opportunity to showcase your favorite dishware, glassware, or even potted plants, adding a personal touch to your cooking space.
Open shelving can be customized with different materials and colors to match your kitchen decor.
3. Maximize Vertical Space
Imagine transforming your small galley kitchen into a more functional and stylish space by simply playing with height.
Tall cabinets that extend all the way to the ceiling are a game-changer.
This approach allows you to store infrequently used items on the top shelves while keeping daily essentials within easy reach.
4. Slimline Appliances
Slimline appliances are a game-changer for small galley kitchens. Designed to fit into tight spaces, these appliances retain the performance and features you’d expect from their full-sized counterparts.
Think of fridges that can snugly tuck into corners, or dishwashers that effortlessly slide under counters.
The beauty lies in their compact form—perfectly engineered to maximize every inch of your kitchen.
5. Add a Breakfast Bar
Adding a breakfast bar to your small galley kitchen is a brilliant way to enhance both functionality and style.
Imagine having a cozy corner where you can enjoy your morning coffee or a quick meal.
This additional counter space doesn’t just serve as a dining area; it also offers more room for meal prep and storage.
6. Glass Cabinet Doors
Glass cabinet doors can transform a cramped galley kitchen into a more open and inviting space.
By installing these see-through doors, you replace the feeling of heavy, closed-off cupboards with a sense of light and airiness.
You have the added benefit of being able to showcase your beautiful dishes, which can add personality and style to your kitchen.
7. Compact Dishwasher
Consider installing a compact dishwasher as a smart solution for tight kitchen areas.
These compact devices offer full dishwasher functionality without occupying significant space, making them perfect for galley kitchens.
They slide conveniently under the counter or fit snugly below the sink.
8. Under-Cabinet Lighting
Imagine your kitchen glowing with a warm, inviting light that makes every activity easier and more enjoyable. Under-cabinet lighting does just that.
These lights are discreetly installed beneath your cupboards, casting a direct beam onto your countertops where you need it most.
They eliminate shadows, making chopping vegetables and reading recipes a breeze. Plus, they add a sleek, contemporary feel to your kitchen decor.
9. Reflective Backsplash
A reflective backsplash could be your secret weapon. Materials like glass or glossy tiles work wonders by bouncing light around the room, giving the illusion of a bigger, brighter kitchen.
Not only do these backsplashes create visual depth, but they also add a touch of elegance and modernity to your cooking space.
Easy to clean and highly durable, these reflective surfaces combine both form and function, making them a smart choice for any small kitchen remodel.
10. Single Basin Sink
Single basin sinks are becoming a game-changer in small galley kitchens.
Opting for a single basin sink can significantly boost your counter space, which is often at a premium in compact areas.
This clever choice means you’ll have more room for meal prep and other kitchen tasks. The minimalist design also adds a sleek, modern touch to the kitchen.
11. Pull-Out Pantry
Imagine you’re cooking dinner, and everything you need is right within reach. A pull-out pantry makes that possible.
This innovative feature maximizes your kitchen’s storage capacity without compromising space.
Unlike traditional pantries, a pull-out version slides out smoothly to reveal organized shelves, making it easy to grab ingredients and utensils in a snap.
12. Multi-Functional Furniture
By incorporating multi-functional furniture such as a fold-down table or a rolling cart. These clever additions can drastically improve your kitchen’s efficiency.
A fold-down table attached to the wall offers a convenient surface for meal prep or dining, and folds away when not needed, maximizing floor space.
Similarly, a rolling cart serves as mobile storage or an additional counter, and can be easily moved out of the way.
13. Cohesive Color Scheme
The transformative power of a cohesive color scheme in a small galley kitchen cannot be overstated.
By sticking to a uniform palette, you can create a seamless and unified look that makes your space appear larger and more open.
Look for light, neutral colors to enhance natural light and add a sense of airy spaciousness.
Using the same color on walls, cabinets, and backsplash prevents visual clutter and brings a calming, organized atmosphere.
14. Sliding Doors
Sliding doors are a practical solution for small galley kitchens where every inch of space counts.
Unlike traditional cabinet doors that swing out and require extra room, sliding doors move horizontally and effortlessly along their tracks.
This saves valuable space, especially in tight areas where the door swing can obstruct movement or collide with other fixtures.
They come in various materials like glass, wood, and metal, allowing you to customise them to fit your style.
15. Integrated Appliances
Imagine walking into your kitchen and seeing appliances that are not just functional but also concealed perfectly within your cabinets.
Integrated appliances are the secret to achieving this sleek and modern look.
These appliances, such as fridges, ovens, and dishwashers, are built into your cabinetry, creating a uniform, uninterrupted visual flow.
16. Corner Storage Solutions
One of the smartest ways to upgrade a small galley kitchen is by making use of corner storage solutions.
These often overlooked spaces can transform into highly efficient storage areas.
Consider installing lazy Susans or corner drawers, which are designed to fit seamlessly into these awkward angles.
17. Decorative Elements
One way to truly transform your small galley kitchen is by incorporating decorative elements that reflect your personal style.
Imagine adding a chic rug that not only provides a splash of color but also adds a layer of comfort to your space.
Artwork can serve as a focal point, drawing the eye and making the room feel more dynamic.
