Galley Kitchen Layout Guide
Discover how to maximize efficiency in narrow spaces with the galley kitchen layout. Two parallel countertops create an optimal work triangle perfect for apartments, small homes, and busy commercial kitchens.
Quick Galley Kitchen Facts
What Is a Galley Kitchen?
A galley kitchen features two parallel countertops with a central walkway between them, resembling the narrow cooking areas found on ships. This efficient layout maximizes functionality in compact spaces while maintaining an organized work flow.
Common Use Cases
- Apartments: Perfect for narrow urban apartment kitchens where space is at a premium
- Small Homes: Ideal for compact houses, condos, and starter homes
- Commercial Kitchens: Popular in restaurants for efficient food preparation workflows
- Open Floor Plans: Works well when transitioning to living areas without disrupting flow
Alternative Names
Also known as: galley layout, parallel kitchen, narrow kitchen design, corridor kitchen, two-wall kitchen, straight-line kitchen
Ideal Dimensions & Work Triangle
Perfect Galley Kitchen Dimensions
Walkway Width
- • Minimum: 36 inches (tight but functional)
- • Ideal: 42-48 inches (comfortable movement)
- • Maximum: 60 inches (maintains efficiency)
Length Requirements
- • Minimum: 8 feet (basic functionality)
- • Recommended: 10-12 feet (optimal workflow)
- • Maximum: 15 feet (before becoming inefficient)
Counter Specifications
- • Depth: 24-25 inches standard
- • Height: 36 inches standard
- • Overhang: 12-15 inches for seating (if space allows)
Work Triangle Optimization
Appliance Placement
- • Sink: Position at one end, preferably near window
- • Range/Cooktop: Center or opposite wall from sink
- • Refrigerator: Near entrance for easy access
Triangle Measurements
- • Total Distance: 12-26 feet ideal
- • Each Leg: 4-9 feet recommended
- • No Obstacles: Keep triangle clear of traffic
💡 Pro Tip
In galley kitchens, the work triangle becomes more of a "work line" - keep the most-used appliances within easy reach along the parallel counters.
Pros & Considerations
✓ Galley Kitchen Advantages
- Efficient Workflow: Everything is within arm's reach, creating the most efficient cooking experience
- Cost-Effective: Requires less cabinetry and countertop material than other layouts
- Space Maximization: Makes the most of narrow, challenging spaces that other layouts can't accommodate
- Easy Supervision: Perfect for watching children or engaging with family while cooking
- Simple Installation: Straightforward plumbing and electrical requirements
⚠ Important Considerations
- Limited Counter Space: Less prep area compared to L-shaped or U-shaped layouts
- Traffic Flow Issues: Can become bottleneck if walkway is main traffic route
- Storage Challenges: Limited wall space requires creative storage solutions
- Can Feel Cramped: Without proper planning, may feel claustrophobic
- Limited Dining Space: Rarely accommodates kitchen island or dining table
Galley Kitchen Design Variations
Classic Galley
Two parallel counters with equal length, creating perfect symmetry and balanced workflow.
- • Best for: Small apartments
- • Size: 40-80 sq ft
- • Cost: Most affordable
Open-End Galley
One end opens to dining or living area, reducing the corridor feel while maintaining efficiency.
- • Best for: Open floor plans
- • Size: 60-120 sq ft
- • Cost: Moderate
Galley with Island
Small island or cart added to one end, providing extra prep space and storage.
- • Best for: Larger galley spaces
- • Size: 100-150 sq ft
- • Cost: Higher investment
Storage & Space Optimization
Vertical Storage Solutions
Tall Cabinets
Extend cabinets to the ceiling to maximize storage capacity. Use the top shelves for items used less frequently.
- • 42" standard height vs 36" for more storage
- • Add crown molding for finished look
- • Include pull-down shelving for accessibility
Pull-Out Drawers
Replace traditional shelves with pull-out drawers for easier access to items in back.
- • Soft-close mechanisms for smooth operation
- • Full-extension slides for complete access
- • Varying heights for different storage needs
Smart Organization Ideas
Wall-Mounted Storage
- • Magnetic knife strips and spice racks
- • Hanging pot racks above counters
- • Open shelving for frequently used items
- • Pull-down paper towel holders
Corner Solutions
- • Lazy Susan organizers for deep corners
- • Corner drawers with angled fronts
- • Diagonal corner cabinets for easy access
- • Pull-out corner shelving systems
Planning Tools & Calculators
Galley Layout Calculator
Calculate optimal dimensions for your galley kitchen based on your space constraints.
Use CalculatorWork Triangle Planner
Plan your optimal work triangle for maximum galley kitchen efficiency.
Plan TrianglePlanning Worksheet
Comprehensive worksheet specifically designed for galley kitchen planning.
Download PDFPerfect Cabinets for Galley Kitchens
White Shaker Cabinets
Bright white cabinets make narrow galley kitchens feel more spacious and open.
Shop White Cabinets →Wall Cabinets
Maximize vertical storage with tall wall cabinets that reach the ceiling.
Shop Wall Cabinets →Base Cabinets
Efficient base cabinets with pull-out drawers for easy access in tight spaces.
Shop Base Cabinets →Cabinet Hardware
Soft-close hinges and full-extension slides essential for galley kitchens.
Shop Hardware →Galley Kitchen FAQ
Ready to Design Your Galley Kitchen?
Our kitchen design experts can help you create the perfect galley kitchen layout for your space and needs.