Single-wall galley kitchens are an increasingly popular kitchen layout, especially for small spaces. The term “galley” refers to the elongated, corridor-like shape of this kitchen design. Galley kitchens get their name from the galley kitchens found on ships, trains, and airplanes. They feature cabinets and countertops lined up on one or both long walls, creating an efficient and organized workspace.
While standard galley kitchens have cabinets and appliances on two parallel walls, single-wall galley kitchens take the galley layout even further by condensing it down to one wall. This allows for an even narrower footprint, making single-wall galley kitchens ideal for tight spaces like apartments, condos, and small homes. They provide a surprising amount of storage and functionality while maximizing every inch of space.
Benefits of a Single-Wall Galley Kitchen
Single-wall galley kitchens offer many advantages that make them a smart choice for small kitchens:
Space Savings
The defining feature of a single-wall galley is its extremely efficient use of space. By lining up all cabinets, appliances, and countertops along one wall, you eliminate the need for floor space on a second wall. This allows even the tiniest kitchens to feel open instead of boxed in.
Streamlined Workflow
With all essential kitchen components in close proximity, a single-wall galley promotes an orderly workflow. The conga line arrangement allows you to easily move from one task to the next, from refrigerator to sink to stove, without taking extra steps. This sequential layout makes cooking and prep work seamless.
Cost Effective
Consolidating plumbing, electric, cabinetry, and appliances along one wall cuts down on installation and material costs. Longer countertop runs are more economical than multiple separate sections. There’s no wasted space when everything is carefully planned to fit along a single wall.
Visibility
The open concept of a single-wall galley gives you a clear line of sight across the kitchen. You can easily monitor kids in the living room or chat with guests while prepping a meal. The openness makes small spaces feel less cramped.
Adaptability
Single-wall galleys can be customized to fit your needs. Center appliances and bookend with cabinets, or opt for two small appliance zones with cabinets in between. Mix closed and open shelving. Include bar seating, hideaway storage, or built-in dining. The layout accommodates creativity.
Stylish Simplicity
The minimalist aesthetic of a single-wall galley puts cabinets, not empty walls, in the spotlight. Cabinets lined up in a continuous row have a clean, architectural look. The visual harmony of everything on one wall has captivating appeal.
Design Elements to Consider
While the single-wall layout makes efficient use of space, careful planning is required to make it highly functional. Keep these design elements in mind:
Storage Solutions
Despite having only one wall, smart storage options can provide ample room for kitchen necessities. Opt for tall pantry-style cabinets, lazy susans in corner spots, deep drawers for pots and pans, and slide-out shelving for easy access. Open shelving gives a spacious feel while displaying your favorite pieces.
Multi-Purpose Islands
Islands are almost a necessity in single-wall galleys to expand work space and storage. Choose an island with legs instead of floor cabinets to avoid a boxed-in feeling. Outfit it with drawers, shelves, and even seating for dining. Moveable islands maximize flexibility.
Peninsula Seating
Adding peninsula seating is an excellent way to create an eat-in dining space without requiring extra floor area. The extended countertop and cabinets provide ample table area. Stools tucked under the peninsula can be pulled out for meals and pushed back in when not in use.
Appliance Layout
Carefully mapping out the appliance layout based on sequence of food prep and cooking steps results in a smoother work triangle. Place the refrigerator at one end, stove at the other, and sink in the middle. Minimize crossing paths and backtracking.
Innovative Appliances
Look for appliances that suit tight spaces. Column refrigerators, narrow slide-in or drop-in ranges, and low-profile microwaves have minimal footprints. Drawer-style dishwashers, under-counter fridges, and cooktops allow for flexible arrangements.
Abundant Lighting
With no windows or limited natural light, extensive lighting options become key. Incorporate undercabinet lighting, pendant lights over islands, recessed ceiling fixtures, and ample task lighting. Lighting makes single-wall kitchens shine.
Bright Colors
White cabinets and light counters prevent single-wall kitchens from feeling dark and closed in. Bright, cheerful paint colors on the non-working wall add pops of color. Vivid mosaic tile backsplashes inject visual excitement along the working wall.
Single-Wall Galley Layout Options
Single-wall galleys can take several forms:
L-Shaped Counter
This popular option turns the end of the galley into an L, providing space for an appliance zone plus aeating. The leg of the L may extend into the room, creating a peninsula with seating.
Straight Counter
For a true single stretch of counter, opt for the straight counter. Appliances can be spread throughout or consolidated at one end. Maximize upper cabinets and open shelving forstorage.
U-Shaped Counter
By wrapping cabinets around the corners and across the back wall, the single wall galley transforms into a U. This allows for morestorage and counter space while defining the kitchen zone.
Island Addition
Adding an island parallel to the counter creates handy triangular work zones. The island provides dining seating, work area, and storage whileopening up the space.
Peninsulas and Half-Walls
A half wall or peninsula visually separates the kitchen while leaving it open to adjacent spaces. The half wall offers a backsplash and additional storage.
Choosing Cabinetry and Countertops
Choosing cabinetry and countertops is extra important in single-wall galleys to maximize function and style:
- Opt for full-height floor-to-ceiling upper cabinets to take advantage of all available space.
- Include tall pantry cabinets, angled corner cabinets, and specialty pull-out cabinets for kitchen tools.
- Combine closed door cabinets with glass door cabinets and open shelving for an airy mix.
- Use deep drawers, lazy susans, and pull-outs to ensure all cabinet space is fully utilized.
- Contrast upper cabinets with lower cabinets to add visual interest. For example, combine white uppers with wood stained lowers.
- Select durable, water-resistant countertops like quartz, solid surface, or laminate. Avoid porous natural stone.
- Choose countertops with integrated sink basins rather than undermount sinks that take up leg room underneath.
- Opt for engineered quartz or solid surface counters with curved edges and rounded corners for a streamlined look.
- Extend the backsplash across the entire back wall. Use bold tile patterns and textures to add flair.
Appliance Recommendations
Appliance configurations should be well thought through in single-wall galley kitchens. Consider these options:
Refrigeration
- Column fridges have a narrow 18-24 inch footprint.
- Counter-depth fridges minimize protrusion into walkways.
- Undercounter refrigerators free up overhead space.
- Drawer refrigerators allow flexible installation.
- Mini fridges can supplement full-size refrigerator.
Ranges and Ovens
- Slide-in ranges fit neatly between countertop and cabinets.
- Drop-in cooktops install flush with counters for a sleek look.
- Small wall ovens take up minimal footprint.
- Microwave-range hood combos maximize efficiency.
Sinks and Faucets
- Undermount sinks increase leg room beneath counter.
- Bar/prep sinks use less counter space than deep double sinks.
- Pull-down faucets have professional style with home functionality.
Dishwashers
- Slim 18-inch dishwashers fit in tight spaces.
- Drawer dishwashers can be installed wherever there’s space.
Small Appliances
- Multi-use appliances like Instant Pots save space.
- Compact versions of air fryers, toasters, and coffee makers fit nicely.
Galley Kitchen Lighting Ideas
Proper lighting is essential for single-wall galley kitchens. Consider the following options:
- Undercabinet LED lighting illuminates countertops and creates ambiance.
- Pendant lights over islands add sculptural style while providing task lighting.
- Recessed can lighting contains neatly out of sight but bathes the galley in uniform light.
- Track lighting offers flexibility to highlight specific zones.
- Lantern-style fixtures give a modern farmhouse vibe.
- Sconces flanking windows or the stove niche provide accent lighting.
- Light strips installed on top cabinets shine light down through glass cabinet doors.
- Toekick lighting strips illuminate floor space at night serving as safety lighting.
Storage Hacks for Single-Wall Galleys
Despite the limited linear layout, single-wall galleys can be outfitted with abundant storage options:
- Make use of blind corner cabinet space with lazy susans or slide-out shelving.
- Install pull-out trays and racks in base cabinets and drawers.
- Use tambour doors or roll-up doors to conceal small appliances.
- Take advantage of vertical space with extra tall pantry cabinets.
- Add specialty pull-out cabinets for trash/recycling and kitchen tools.
- Include deep drawers for pots, pans, and lids. Opt for full-extension drawers.
- Use drawer organizers and compartmentalized trays to optimize drawers.
- Install utensil racks or hanging racks inside cabinet doors.
- Include glass-front cabinet doors to display dishware while keeping dust free.
- Under-cabinet knife blocks and utensil crocks provide easy access.
- Open shelving offers storage for decorative cookware and accents.
Single-Wall Galley Inspiration
Here are some stunning examples of well-designed single-wall galley kitchens:
Contemporary Single-Wall Galley
This sleek contemporary design utilizes a streamlined peninsula, stainless steel, and crisp white cabinetry. Recessed lighting and pendant lamps provide brilliance. The elongated layout maximizes efficiency.
Farmhouse Chic Galley
Hardwood flooring, subway tile, and shaker cabinets give this single-wall galley a cozy farmhouse vibe. Wicker stools, open shelving, and a rustic ceiling beam add character.
Scandinavian Minimalist Galley
The bright white cabinetry paired with light wood flooring embodies Scandinavian style. Open shelves and sconce lighting keep it airy. The uncomplicated look focuses on simplicity.
Industrial Galley Kitchen
Exposed brick wall, stainless steel appliances, and factory pendant lighting generate urban industrial edge. Crisp white cabinetry balances the hard metals and surfaces.
Rustic Modern Galley
Wood cabinetry and wood-look tile flooring provide rustic warmth, while the linear layout and pendant lighting keep it modern. The textured backsplash adds interest along the single wall.
Frequently Asked Questions About Single-Wall Galleys
Here are answers to some common questions about single-wall galley kitchens:
Are single-wall galley kitchens practical?
Yes, single-wall galley kitchens are very practical, especially for small spaces. The streamlined layout allows for an efficient cooking workspace. Smart storage solutions can provide ample room for kitchen necessities.
What size kitchen is best for a single-wall galley?
Single-wall galleys work well in kitchens with a floor plan of 150 square feet or less. The condensed footprint is ideal for making the most of narrow kitchens.
Can you have an island with a single-wall galley?
Definitely. Islands work extremely well with single-wall galleys by expanding the usable workspace. Opt for a movable island to allow flexibility.
Are appliances accessible in a single-wall galley?
Yes, appliances can be easily accessed, especially if placed strategically in the workflow sequence. Options like slide-in ranges allow appliances to be embedded neatly into the cabinet run.
What about ventilation for the stove area?
Range hood ventilation can be incorporated above the stove area. Low-profile hoods or microwave-range hood combinations maximize visibility while providing ventilation.
Is there enough room for food prep?
Careful planning allows room for food prep tasks. The streamlined workflow supports moving smoothly between tasks. Islands or peninsulas extend the usable counter space.
Can multiple people cook together in a single-wall galley?
The narrow layout does limit multiple cooks in the kitchen. One cook can work efficiently with helpers relegated to prep work on an island or dining peninsula.
Conclusion
Single-wall galley kitchens are an ingenious solution for transforming tiny kitchens into highly functional cooking spaces. Taking advantage of the efficient galley-style workflow while consolidating it along one continuous wall results in a smart, space-saving design. Careful planning is needed to ensure adequate storage, appliances, and work space within the limited footprint. But the dazzling galley kitchen makeovers made possible are well worth the effort. A single-wall galley offers the freedom to cook comfortably in compact quarters.
