15 galley kitchen ideas that make the most of this design concept

Use bright colors

While some designers might want to ditch the all-white kitchen, mixing white with other light tones is always trendy as a way to make a small kitchen look more open. In this bright galley kitchen designed by interior designer Gael Dudley of GLDESIGN, white oak is combined with crisp white walls and quartz countertops, subtly accented with soft hues and metallic details. “This makes the kitchen easier to clean and keeps it light and bright,” she says.

Unique arches add interest

A unique arch beautifully frames the galley kitchen and elevates the overall design. Here, a slightly pointed arch surrounded by fresh plants makes this hidden space feel even more inviting.

Make a statement with your backsplash

A striking backsplash gives instant personality and texture to a galley kitchen. In this design by Deborah Berke Partners, the sleek gray-and-white marble backsplash—the same material used for the countertops—serves as an interesting focal point without looking cluttered.

Add a floating table

A floating table is a clever alternative to the usual (and more permanent) kitchen island. “Our clients really wanted a less formal dining space in their kitchen to accommodate their more modern lifestyle, so we went with the idea of ​​a galley kitchen to make the space more open, rather than the more commonly chosen island and stools,” says interior designer Megan Prime of JAM. “On the wall opposite the sink and range, we lined it with a built-in bench and a small floating table, with room to pull out a couple of chairs if needed.”

Get plenty of natural light

As seen in this space from iSPY Home Design, letting in natural light through a window can make a galley kitchen feel larger. Consider where you can add a window (or two!) – above the sink, on a side wall, or even as a skylight.

Use a light wood grain

To channel a Scandinavian or midcentury modern vibe, opt for sleek lines, minimalist decor, and layers of pale wood. “Using light woods and white marble helped make the space feel large and luxurious,” says Prime.

Add a pop of color

This galley kitchen design by Block Renovation blends traditional design with a touch of whimsy. “By combining neutral cabinetry with a pop of color on the walls, we were able to do two things: add an unexpected twist while still maintaining some flexibility,” says Octavio Estrada, senior architectural designer at the firm. “Choosing a fun wall paint color also gives us the freedom to update the color scheme over time as our design sensibilities change with different styles and trends.”

Incorporate eclectic details

If minimalist aesthetics and pale wood tones aren't your style, that's totally OK. Feel free to incorporate color and texture, like in this playful galley kitchen by Cortney Bishop Design.

“We wanted this kitchen to be the heart of the home, so we really took our time choosing materials that made sense,” says Bishop. “The eclectic, old-fashioned feel we created made the kitchen not only aesthetically appealing, but a cool, comfortable space that you'll want to spend a lot of time in.”

Black-and-white marble floors are matched with medium gray countertops, an earthy-toned tile backsplash, sage-green cabinetry and funky pendant lighting.

Lean into the theme

If you're not quite sure what direction to take with your galley kitchen, pick a theme and go with it. This beautiful coastal space by design studio Hoedemaker Pfeiffer combines pale wood cabinetry, cream shiplap walls, and rustic wood tones throughout.

Place the runner

Rugs anchor a space, especially in a galley kitchen: they add contrast and character, and offer a soft place for your feet to rest while you work.

Aim for high contrast

Light and soft tones can make a space feel bright and spacious, but if you're looking for a more dramatic feel in your galley kitchen, consider a high-contrast color scheme. In this stunning design by Brad Ramsey Interiors, dark black lower cabinets complement the white tile backsplash and upper cabinets.

A mix of classic and contemporary details

This galley kitchen blends elements of both classic and contemporary. “The matte white backsplash subway tile and white grout give off a clean, minimalist vibe. Classic white Shaker cabinets adorned with colorful round wooden knobs bring a timeless playfulness, while chunky wooden floating shelves seamlessly bridge the gap between classic and modern,” says Asia Ligas of Block Renovation.

Choose a bold color palette

There are no hard and fast rules to follow when designing a galley kitchen, and this bold red galley kitchen by Hoedemaker Pfeiffer oozes charisma.

Rethink your cabinets

Cabinets naturally take up space, which is why you might struggle to find space in a galley kitchen. If you have plenty of storage space, consider removing some of your upper cabinets to reclaim some space and instantly make the space feel larger, as shown in this airy kitchen from iSPY Home Design.

Destroy half the wall

If you have the footprint for a galley kitchen but want a more open layout, you can always opt for a little gutting. In this galley kitchen design by Joshua Smith Inc, half a wall was removed to create views to the rest of the home along with bar seating.