Open Up Your Tiny 8x8 Galley Kitchen With These Brilliant Design Tricks

Galley kitchen layouts may seem confining, but they offer smart use of space in small kitchens. The narrow galley-style design features counters and cabinets lined up along two parallel walls. While galley kitchens maximize the workflow between the sink, stove and fridge, the limited space can feel boxy and closed-in.

For homeowners stuck with a tiny 8x8 galley kitchen, the cramped quarters can be frustrating. But there are clever design tricks that can help open up the space both visually and functionally. With strategic layouts and the right finishes, you can enjoy a galley kitchen that feels light, bright and spacious rather than claustrophobic.

Galley Kitchen Layout Overview

A galley kitchen refers to a straight, corridor-like kitchen design bounded by cabinets and counters along two opposing walls. One major advantage of a galley layout is an efficient work triangle between the major appliances and sink. The footprint is especially suitable for small kitchens in apartments, condos and older homes.

However, galley kitchens also pose some distinct challenges. The limited floorspace can feel confining, reducing visibility across the entire kitchen. Wall cabinets running the length of the kitchen exacerbate the “tunnel” effect. Galley kitchens in awkward 8x8 footprints are especially tricky for creating storage, workspace and an open aesthetic.

Common Challenges in an 8x8 Galley Kitchen

• Feeling closed in and cramped
• Lack of storage space
• Limited counter space and workspace
• Poor visibility
• Dark and dreary ambience

Design Tricks to Visually Open Up Your 8x8 Galley Kitchen

It’s possible to combat the claustrophobic vibe of a narrow galley kitchen with the right layout and finishes. Here are brilliant galley kitchen ideas to visually expand the space.

Use Light Colors and Finishes

Dark colors can make a small galley kitchen feel even more oppressive. Take advantage of light colors to brighten up the space and make it appear larger.

Paint the walls, cabinets, drawer fronts and trim in light neutrals like white, off-white, ivory or light gray. Contrast with darker hardware and fixtures.

Opt for pale backsplash tile like classic white subway tile, marble or discreet patterns. Light granite, quartz or laminate countertops also enlarge the ambience.

For cabinetry, painted finishes and light wood tones keep things airy. Glass cabinet doors maintain visibility without sacrificing essential storage space.

Incorporate Glass and Mirrors

The reflective qualities of glass and mirrors effectively expand any small space. Here are creative ways to incorporate glass elements:

• Strategically hang mirrors to reflect light and create the illusion of more room
• Choose glass tiles or accent tiles for backsplashes
• Hang pendant lights with clear glass shades or install recessed lighting to avoid a cave-like feeling
• Use glass-front upper cabinets to keep things lightweight and visible

Clever Cabinet Design

With careful planning, it’s possible to maximize storage in a galley kitchen without the cabinets overwhelming the room. Consider these space-saving cabinetry ideas:

• Glass-front upper cabinets provide enclosed storage without closing in the kitchen
• Open shelving introduces breathing room between wall cabinets
• Slimline wall cabinets, like 12” depth cabinets, don’t protrude as far into the room
• Vary cabinet heights for interest and install tall pantry cabinets for contained storage
• Vertical drawer organizers adjacent to cabinets save floor space

Multi-functional Island

Even the tightest galley kitchen can benefit from a thoughtfully designed island. Opt for a slim, space-saving island to avoid crammed quarters. Incorporate seating, storage cabinets and open shelves or racks to get more functionality.

Storage Solutions for 8x8 Galley Kitchens

Lack of storage can make small galley kitchens seem even more restrictive. With some clever solutions, it’s possible to tuck away cookware, food items and small appliances without cluttering up precious counters.

Pull-out Drawers and Organizers

Deep, full-extension drawers provide complete access to contents in base cabinets and make items easy to view. Custom inserts for plates, pots and pans, containers, utensils and more can transform standard drawers into optimized storage.

Other options like cutlery organizers, spice racks, lazy susans and pull-out trays also streamline cabinet storage and maximize every inch of space.

Optimize Wall Storage

Take full advantage of vertical storage opportunities with enhancements like:

• Tall wall cabinets that reach up to the ceiling
• Wall-mounted pot racks and magnetic knife strips
• Deep drawers for pots and pans instead of standard base cabinets

Multi-tiered Shelving

Open shelving can introduce needed breathing room in a narrow galley kitchen. Multi-tiered shelving is great for frequently accessed items like dishes, glasses and small cooking tools.

Look for shelving solutions above counters or low enough for easy accessibility. Shelves 8-12 inches deep allow you to stack items efficiently.

Under-sink Storage

Don’t forget the storage potential under the kitchen sink. Install slide-out cabinets or add roll-out trays. Use to neatly organize cleaning supplies, trash bags and other items.

It is possible to open up a tight 8x8 galley kitchen with smart design tricks. The strategic use of lighting, mirrors, glass elements and cabinet layouts can make the space feel more expansive and inviting.

Creative storage solutions also keep clutter contained. By incorporating pull-outs, shelves, organizers and other optimizations, you can have everything you need within arm’s reach.

With the right galley kitchen remodel ideas, even the most confined 8x8 kitchen can become a highly functional and visually pleasing space you’ll be happy to cook in.