Design Ideas for Galley Kitchen

So much has changed in the way we design and use our kitchens over the last decade, but there's something reassuring in how the galley layout has adapted to the new-found sense of space, and thrived. The galley kitchen layout works well for most styles, including country kitchen ideas.

Named after a ship's kitchen, galleys were orginally designed to be both compact, ergonomic and ultra-efficient, maximising every inch of space for both storage and preparation. Professional kitchens also follow a similar linear plan with rows of cookers or hobs divided into specific stations for prepping different types of dishes.

Where there's room for a parallel run of units - a double galley - you can introduce the classic work triangle, arranging the key task zones of fridge, cooker and sink in this pattern to cut down on the legwork.

This is not only successful in narrow rooms that have enough width to take two rows of units, however. It's exactly the format that's so popular in open-plan spaces, with a long island providing the second leg, often creating a sociable casual seating area and a natural boundary for the kitchen zone at the same time.

Warm materials
If ultra modern isn't for you, this fresh Steamer Bay design is ideal for a galley. Complete with tongue-and-groove panelling, a Butler-style sink and wooden worktops, it will make your room feel warm and homely. John Lewis of Hungerford kitchens start from £17, 000.