Galley kitchen ideas – functional solutions for long, narrow spaces

Everyone dreams of a spacious kitchen which accommodates kitchen all kitchen appliances, utensils, dishware and will leave enough space for the family members to get together. However many urban apartments feature a long and narrow kitchen? How to turn it into a cozy and comfortable place? Is this even possible? We have collected some fascinating examples and galley kitchen ideas which will show you how the professional design and the properly selected colors and lighting can create miracles.

Galley kitchen ideas are focused on the efficient and rational use of the available space so that the feeling of chaos and clutter is avoided. A long narrow kitchen often resembles an uncomfortable carriage and if not designed properly can be quite claustrophobic. Planning the space is of greatest importance. The limits in the space have created the necessity for vertical designs in one or two parallel rows.

Small galley kitchens will look much better and more spacious without upper cabinets. Those should be replaced by floating shelves so that the kitchen looks more spacious. L-shaped or P-shaped designs work perfectly for such spaces and if you wanted a dining area a small folding table would be a good space saving solution.

White color creates a feeling of freshness and lightness, soft greens or blue add an atmosphere of fresh air and open space. Pastel colors such as ivory, light brown, pale yellow, pink or peach will make your narrow kitchen more spacious. It is advisable that kitchen countertops and backsplash follow the general color scheme and blend in with the color of the walls and cabinets.

Glass, stainless steel and glossy surfaces will reflect light and will also add to the visual appeal of the space. Lighting is essential in galley kitchens. They need to be well lit, not only in order to appear larger but to provide the necessary comfort. Use as much natural light as possible. Additional lighting on work surfaces and task lighting, under cabinet lighting will make your kitchen interior really impressive. Enjoy the inspiring galley kitchen designs in the gallery below and find the best solution for your own long and narrow kitchen!