Galley kitchens are a staple of apartments and homes alike in New York. Galley kitchens often allow for a full kitchen space to be compact and space-saving across 2 walls. Below, we will discuss 5 ways to upgrade and reinvent your galley kitchen.
Mirrored Backsplash
Adding a mirrored backsplash to one side of your galley kitchen will make the space feel bigger, and make better use of natural light in the space. Be sure to only mirror one side. Doing both will create a disorienting mise en abyme effect that can be actually make the space feel recursive. Instead, try to follow up with a light colored backsplash on the other side, which will further help reflect light.
Pendant Lights
Pendant lights along the length of the galley can add area light and spacing, while the style of the fixtures can add character and elevate the space. Making good use of pendant lights in a galley kitchen can ensure that the whole place is well-lit. Mix with undermount lights for even more illumination.
Specialty Drawers
We have discussed drawers that function as refrigerators, freezers, trash compartments, warming trays and more; in a number of other articles on this website. Drawers such as these can allow you to (with enough storage space) forgo large and bulky refrigerators that can overwhelm a smaller galley kitchen space. Making effective use of these inventive storage options can allow you to save space by cutting back on traditional appliances.
Spread Out the Kitchen Triangle
The “Kitchen Triangle” refers to the paths you walk between the 3 most vital parts of the kitchen; the stove, fridge, and sink. Keeping some reasonable distance between the 3 will make the kitchen feel larger and allow for more than one person to operate in the kitchen effectively. Appliances should be evenly distributed throughout the length of the galley kitchen. It is also important to make it a triangle. Do not put all 3 on one side of the galley. A galley often works best with the stove and fridge on the same side; with the sink, and possibly a dishwasher, on the opposite side.
Invest in a Range Hood
Galley kitchens, especially those in more cramped living spaces can get very hot, very fast. Adding a range hood to your kitchen can help you minimize that heat buildup. Range hoods come in all sorts of sizes. Pick one that can effectively fit in the space while providing the proper ventilation.
To discuss bathroom or kitchen remodeling options that would be best for your home please contact us at (718) 273-6233 or visit our showroom at 711 Port Richmond Ave., Staten Island, NY 10302.