A stylish Moroccan galley kitchen combines the efficient layout of a galley kitchen with the exotic flair of Moroccan design. This type of kitchen is a great option for small spaces but still makes a dramatic design statement.
Introduction to Moroccan Style
Moroccan style is characterized by rich colors, intricate patterns, and exotic details inspired by Morocco’s geographic location at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa. Common elements include:
- Vibrant colors like jewel tones, terra cotta, and turquoise
- Intricate tilework, zellige mosaics, and geometric patterns
- Arched doorways and windows
- Carved wood, painted furniture, and metalwork accents
- Lanterns and candle lighting
- Textiles like Beni Ourain rugs, pillows, and poufs
This exotic style is warm and inviting, perfect for a kitchen where friends and family gather.
Benefits of a Galley Kitchen Layout
A galley kitchen gets its name from the long, narrow footprint that mimics a ship’s galley. This layout has cabinets, countertops, and appliances lined up on two parallel walls.
Benefits of a galley kitchen include:
- Efficient use of space – The linear design maximizes work area in a smaller footprint.
- Easy to navigate – With everything located on two sides, a galley is simple to move through and work in.
- Flexible – The simple layout accommodates many configurations of cabinetry, counters, and appliances.
- Budget-friendly – With less wall space and fewer cabinets than other layouts, galley kitchens tend to cost less.
The focused galley layout prevents backtracking and makes the most of every inch, ideal for smaller kitchens. The clean sightlines also suit modern and contemporary kitchens.
Blending Moroccan Style into a Galley Kitchen
Integrating Moroccan details into a galley kitchen creates visual interest while maintaining the layout’s functionality. Consider these tips:
Backsplash
The backsplash is the perfect canvas for Moroccan tilework. Opt for:
- Geometric zellige mosaic tiles
- Vibrant colors like turquoise, terra cotta, and yellow
- Decorative borders and medallion accents
Patterned tiles instantly infuse a galley with an exotic feel. Stack natural stone slabs for a less busy look.
Cabinets
Paint or stain cabinets in rich hues found across Morocco. Color options include:
- Spice colors like cumin, paprika, and saffron yellow
- Vibrant turquoise, ruby, emerald, and sapphire
- Warm terra cotta, henna, and desert sand
For a ornate look, add carved wood trim or distressed metal hardware. Opt for open shelving to display colorful cookware.
Countertops
counters should tie into the color scheme. Options include:
- Honed natural stone slabs in creamy travertine or limestone
- Richly veined marble, granite, and quartzite
- Vivid solid surface materials like turquoise or terra cotta
Edge with hand-carved stone trim or tile accents.
Lighting
Incorporate Moroccan lantern pendants over the kitchen sink or island. Look for:
- Metal filigree lanterns with colored glass
- Ceramic tagine pendant lights
- Handworked lamps with mosaic tile
Lantern lighting casts a warm, inviting glow over galley workspaces.
Textiles & Decor
Punch up the Moroccan vibe with accessories like:
- Beni Ourain rugs layered on the floor
- Kilim pillows on built-in banquettes
- Painted ceramics and serving pieces
- Handwoven baskets to store fruits and vegetables
- Vivid textiles as curtains or valances
Keep the overall look cohesive with colors drawn from the cabinetry, counters, and backsplash.
Final Touches
Finish the space with Moroccan accents like:
- Arched entryways or window openings
- Carved wood brackets under wall cabinets
- An intricately tiled niche or display shelf
- Meticulously detailed range hood
- Hammered metal apron front sink
Such ornamental details make a big visual impact without overpowering the efficient galley layout.
Pulling Off a Stylish Moroccan Galley Kitchen
When thoughtfully executed, a Moroccan galley kitchen strikes the perfect balance of form and function. Keep these tips in mind:
- Stick to a cohesive color palette so the look seems intentionally curated rather than haphazard.
- Choose easy-care surfaces like ceramic tile, stainless steel, quartz, and solid surface materials to stand up to kitchen wear-and-tear.
- Incorporate storage like baskets, cabinets, and open shelving to keep the space organized.
- Layer in rugs and textiles to help soften hard surfaces and link to adjoining rooms.
- Use lighting to create a welcoming glow and highlight decorative tilework.
- Add handcrafted accents and ornate details in concentrated areas so the look does not become overwhelming.
- Keep countertops clutter-free and clean so Moroccan patterns can take center stage.
The linear galley layout offers smart functionality while Moroccan accents infuse exotic character. Blend these elements together for a stylish, efficient kitchen.
Inspiring Examples of Stylish Moroccan Galley Kitchens
For additional inspiration, here are some stunning examples of galley kitchens enhanced with Moroccan details:
Turquoise Tilework
This galley features brilliant turquoise subway tiles paired with open shelving and intricate tilework around the range hood. Pops of ruby and saffron add vibrancy.
Photo from Modsy.
Zellige Backsplash
The backsplash steals the show in this kitchen, covered in elaborate square zellige tiles. The patterns tie together built-in banquette seating.
Photo from Clique Photos.
Colorful Cabinets
Vibrant turquoise, red, and yellow cabinetry makes this galley kitchen pop. Notice how open shelves keep the space feeling light and airy.
Photo from Designer Lisa Staton.
Neutral Backdrop
This kitchen lets zellige patterning shine against a neutral backdrop of creamy cabinetry, marble, and limestone. Pendant lanterns add Moroccan flair.
Photo from DeVOL Kitchens.
Bold Color Combinations
Vibrant colors meet in this galley, with emerald green lower cabinets, ruby uppers, and undulating turquoise backsplash tile. The look is warm and inviting.
Photo from Designer Tineke Triggs.
Tips for Achieving the Look at Home
Want to recreate the magic of a stylish Moroccan galley kitchen in your own home? Follow these top tips:
Select vibrant backsplash tile. Make the backsplash the star with colorful zellige patterns or geometric motifs.
Paint cabinets in rich hues. Forest greens, deep rubies, turquoise, or terra cotta instantly transform plain cabinetry.
Incorporate open shelving. This keeps the space feeling airy and provides beautiful display space.
Add ornate lighting. Look for Moroccan pendants to infuse exotic flair above sinks and counters.
Use colorful textiles. Kilim pillows, Beni Ourain rugs, curtain panels, and other soft touches add warmth.
Include carved wood accents. Add trim to cabinet fronts, window frames, or open shelves for an ornate touch.
Display decorative ceramics. Handpainted plates, cups, and serving pieces make artful focal points.
Add an arched opening. Arches connecting to dining or living spaces instantly evoke Morocco.
Opt for patterned hardware. Intricate metal pulls on cabinets and drawers reflect the motif.
Include a tiled niche. Frame out a section of the backsplash for displaying cherished items.
Frequently Asked Questions About Stylish Moroccan Galley Kitchens
Here are answers to some commonly asked questions about creating a stylish galley kitchen with Moroccan flair:
What colors work well in a Moroccan galley kitchen?
Some of the best colors to use are vibrant jewel tones like emerald green, ruby red, and sapphire blue. Turquoise and terra cotta are also signature Moroccan hues. Neutrals like cream, beige, and soft white create a soothing backdrop.
What kind of tile should I use for the backsplash?
Moroccan zellige tiles, subway tiles in geometric patterns, and decorative mosaic medallions are perfect backsplash options. Stacked natural stone slabs also look elegant.
What type of cabinetry works best in this style?
Opt for streamlined Shaker-style cabinet doors painted in rich hues. Open shelving creates display space. Some ornate carved detailing on cabinet fronts can provide exotic flair.
How do I add Moroccan accents on a budget?
Inexpensive touches like colored glass pendant lights, Beni Ourain-style cotton rugs, patterned throw pillows, and decorative ceramics go a long way. Painting existing cabinetry also costs less than a full remodel.
Should I use an accent wall in my Moroccan galley kitchen?
Yes, an accent wall is a great way to add impact! Use a vibrant paint color, intricate tilework, or a textured decor wallpaper as the focal point. Avoid Pattern overload.
What kind of lighting works well in this kitchen style?
Pendant lights are essential over sinks, islands, and counters. Opt for metal Moroccan-inspired lanterns or tagine-shaped lamps. Sconces flanking shelves also provide ambient lighting.
Conclusion
A stylish Moroccan galley kitchen blends efficient layout and exotic design for a space that is as practical as it is visually inspiring. The long footprint maximizes work area while vibrant colors, ornate tilework, and handcrafted details infuse warmth and character. Creative use of materials like tile, cabinetry, metalwork, and textiles allows you to realize this dramatic look even on a limited budget. With mindful planning and strategic Moroccan-inspired accents, your tiny kitchen can feel like an exotic oasis.
