Spruce Up Your Galley Kitchen With These Brilliant Makeover Tips

With their efficient use of space, galley kitchens are popular choices for compact homes and apartments. However, their narrow layouts can also lead to cluttered counters and make storage a challenge.

Luckily, there are many clever ways to maximize every inch of a galley kitchen. A few makeover projects can transform these small kitchens from cramped to cook-friendly. Read on for tips to revamp your galley kitchen's layout, storage, lighting and style.

Galley Kitchen Layout Ideas

One of the best ways to improve workflow in a galley kitchen is to change up the layout. Even small adjustments can make a difference.

Add Island or Peninsula

Bringing in an island or peninsula provides more countertop workspace and storage in a galley kitchen's tight footprint. Position it between the kitchen cabinets and appliances for convenient access. You can even use a movable cart island if a permanent option won't fit.

Opt for a narrow butcher block topped island to avoid congestion. Or try a bar-height counter for casual dining. Include storage space with shelves, drawers or a wine rack.

Optimize Corner Cabinets

Take advantage of wasted space in galley kitchen corners with smart storage solutions. Install a lazy susan or pull-out shelves to neatly organize pantry items or cooking gear in base cabinets. Upper corner cabinet shelves can also be adjusted to maximize vertical storage.

Getting creative with corner cabinet layouts is another option. Diagonal shelves, roll-out drawers and vertical dividers all help you use every inch of available space.

Extend Cabinets to Ceiling

Going vertical with your cabinets is a hallmark of great galley kitchen storage. Extending cabinets right up to the ceiling takes full advantage of available height. Just be sure to include pull-down shelves or ladders to reach top shelves.

Another idea is to install open shelving above regular cabinets. This provides display space for pretty dishware while keeping it in arm's reach.

Storage Solutions for Galley Kitchens

Lack of storage is a common complaint in galley kitchens. From pull-outs to pot racks, a few targeted storage projects can lead to a massive gain in usable space.

Pull-Out Cabinets & Drawers

Swapping traditional cabinets for pull-out options is one of the easiest ways to increase storage capacity. Different pull-out systems like roll-out trays, spice racks and tiered drawers keep items organized and accessible.

If your budget is limited, you can add pull-outs to existing cabinets. Try drawer organizers for utensils or slide-out shelves for canned goods and baking items.

Wall-Mounted Pot Racks & Shelves

Going vertical is key in a galley kitchen. Pot racks get pots and pans off the counters and maximize wall space. For a custom look, have a rack fabricated to fit the unique dimensions of your galley kitchen.

Likewise, wall-mounted shelves make use of awkward empty areas along soffits or near windows. Display cookbooks or spices to liven up the look.

Pantry Expansion

Removing an adjoining wall to expand into a closet or unused space is the ultimate storage project for a cramped galley kitchen. You'll gain room for pull-out shelves, racks and other pantry essentials.

If knocking down a wall isn't possible, get creative within your existing pantry. Try pull-out drawers, tiered shelves, a vertical storage system or hanging racks to optimize the layout.

Galley Kitchen Remodel Lighting Tips

With their enclosed layouts and often limited windows, lighting is critical in making a galley kitchen feel open and airy. A lighting upgrade delivers an instant refresh.

Under Cabinet Lights

Installing undercabinet lighting illuminates galley kitchen countertops and tasks spaces. LED strip lighting is easy to install. For a splash of color, go for adjustible strip lights.

Mini pendant lights also work under cabinets. Position them over prep and cooking areas or the kitchen sink for helpful task lighting.

Pendant Lights

Hanging pendant lights is a quick way to upgrade a galley kitchen's style. Opt for sleek modern pendants, vintage-style filament bulbs or dramatic drum shades. Position them over islands and peninsulas to brighten your main workspace.

Go for pendant lights with adjustable height and direction to maximize their usefulness. Place them at eye level when seated for a cozy dining experience.

Recessed Ceiling Lights

Nothing beats recessed lighting for overall illumination in a galley kitchen. Place recessed fixtures strategically in the ceiling above key work zones like sinks, stoves and countertops.

For increased brightness, install mini recessed lights. Their concentrated beams provide focused task lighting. Dimmer switches allow you to control the ambiance.

Backsplash & Decor Touches

Don't overlook the importance of backsplashes and decor in your galley kitchen refresh. Small touches of style make a remarkable difference in enhancing these compact kitchens.

Creative Backsplashes

The backsplash is a chance to add visual interest in a galley kitchen. Go for glass, metal or stone tile mosaics to reflect light. Accent tiles in geometric or floral designs also upgrade traditional backsplashes.

Consider extending your backsplash to the ceiling for a dramatic look. Narrow galley kitchens especially benefit from the vertical extension to make the space appear larger.

Personalize with Color

Inject color through a bright painted accent wall or color-blocked cabinets. Vibrant hues keep the vibe cheery in windowless galley kitchens. But stick to light neutral tones on all four walls if the space already feels cramped.

Look for inexpensive, peel-and-stick backsplash tiles in glossy colors. Or stencil a fun detail above cabinets to incorporate color. Patterned window valances also add personality.

Warm Touches

The right decorative accents lend warmth and softness to rigid galley kitchens. Natural wood floating shelves, butcher block islands and woven textiles achieve this organically. Displaying plants, cookbooks and framed art makes the space feel lived-in.

When possible, include a window seat or built-in bench. These cozy spots with pillows and blankets encourage people to linger in small galley kitchens.

With some strategic changes, it's possible to take a cramped galley kitchen and turn it into a highly functional and inviting space. Simple layout tweaks, smart storage solutions, upgraded lighting and personal decor touches all contribute to a stunning makeover.

Implementing just a few of these kitchen remodel tips will make a noticeable difference. Inspired to give your tiny galley kitchen a fresh new look? Get started on your makeover journey today.