23 Galley Kitchen Makeover Ideas That Will Transform Your Space Into a Culinary Paradise!

Looking for galley kitchen makeover ideas? Galley kitchens are typically long and narrow with lower and upper cabinets, as well as appliances and counters running along both walls.

While a galley kitchen can be efficient, it can also feel cramped and closed off, which is why many homeowners want to open up the space and give it a makeover.

The key to transforming a galley kitchen is to use every available inch of space, while also making the room feel more open and inviting.

With the right design and decor, you can make a small galley kitchen feel spacious and stylish.

1. All-white walls and flooring

If you’re looking to create a simple, clean, and timeless look, you can’t go wrong with an all-white color scheme. This kitchen from Karen at Decor Hint is the perfect example. White walls and white tile flooring make the space feel larger, and the white cabinetry blends right into the walls.

2. Install a pocket door

If your galley kitchen is open on one end, consider installing a pocket door to separate it from the rest of your home. This little detail can make a big difference in the overall look and feel of your kitchen. Plus, it’s a great way to add some privacy if you have guests over but don’t want them to see your kitchen mess!

3. Create a breakfast nook

Adding a small breakfast nook to your kitchen design is a great way to make the most of the space. This renovation by Lorraine G Vale features a cozy seating area with a built-in bench and a custom table.

The window seat is a great place to enjoy a cup of coffee and the view in the morning. And the table can also double as a prep station or serving area when the homeowners are cooking.

4. Add a pop of color

If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to liven up your space, a fresh coat of paint on the walls or cabinets is the way to go. This galley kitchen designed by Emily Henderson features a bold, blue backsplash that adds a punch of color to the room.

The best part? You can easily swap out the backsplash for a new color or pattern if you want to change things up!

5. Add a kitchen island

If your galley kitchen is also on the small side, you may be wondering how you can fit a kitchen island in the middle of your space. The answer is simple: just make sure it’s small!

A small kitchen island can still add plenty of functionality to your galley kitchen. Not only can it add valuable counter space, but it can also be used as a prep area, a place to store kitchen gadgets, and even as a place to eat if you add some bar stools.

6. Add a long rug

A long rug will help give the illusion of a larger space. Plus, it’s a great way to add a pop of color and some texture to your kitchen. Choose a rug that you love, and then pull colors from it to use in the rest of the room.

7. Add a runner

If you’re not ready to commit to a full-blown kitchen rug, a runner is a great alternative. Not only will it add a pop of color and texture to the space, but it can also help to protect your floors.

Just be sure to find a runner that’s the right size. It should be long enough to cover the length of your cabinets, but not so long that it covers the floor space in front of your sink, stove, or refrigerator.

8. Create a gallery wall

A gallery wall isn’t just for the living room! If you have a blank wall in your kitchen, consider creating a gallery wall with an assortment of art, prints, and photographs.

It’s a great way to add personality and color to your kitchen. You can even incorporate a few kitchen-inspired pieces, like the ones seen here, to tie the look together.

9. Add glass cabinet doors

If you have a collection of dishes, glassware, or serving pieces you want to show off, consider swapping out a few of your cabinet doors for glass ones. This is a great way to add a little bit of personality to your kitchen and make it feel more open and airy.

You can add glass doors to just a few of your cabinets, or you can use them throughout your entire kitchen. It’s up to you!

10. Add a mirror

A mirror can do wonders for a small space, and that includes a galley kitchen. In this space designed by Alexander M. Reid, the mirror backsplash makes the kitchen feel larger and more open.

Plus, it reflects the light from the window, which is a great way to brighten up a dark kitchen.

11. Add a skylight

If you’re limited on wall space but have a bit of room in your budget to add a window, consider installing a skylight in your kitchen. Not only will it allow natural light to pour into the space, but it can also add a bit of architectural interest to the room.

In this galley kitchen by Studio McGee, a skylight was installed above the kitchen island, which helps to create a focal point in the center of the space.

12. Add under-cabinet lighting

“Under-cabinet lighting is a great way to add a little bit of ambiance to your kitchen,” says designer Bria Hammel. “It’s also a really good task light for when you’re doing things like chopping or cooking.”

This kitchen designed by Hammel features under-cabinet lighting, as well as lighting inside the cabinets. It adds a warm glow to the space and highlights the beautiful tile work.

13. Add a kitchen garden

If you have a window in your kitchen, consider adding a small kitchen garden to the sill. Not only will it bring life to the space, but it will also provide fresh herbs for your culinary creations. Just be sure to select a variety of plants that are suited for the amount of light your kitchen receives.

14. Add a chalkboard wall

This is a great budget-friendly addition to any kitchen. Chalkboard paint is easy to apply and you can create a fun focal point in your space.

If you’re not ready to commit to a wall, you can also use chalkboard paint on your fridge, cabinets, and more!

15. Add a glamorous chandelier

Even if your kitchen is on the smaller side, you can still add a glamorous light fixture. These statement chandeliers are made from a series of pendants, which means you can adjust the length to fit your space.

The gold finish on the pendants adds a touch of glam to the otherwise neutral kitchen.

16. Add a window seat

If you have the space, consider creating a cozy window seat in your kitchen. Not only will it add extra seating, but it will also make the room feel more inviting.

You can add a window seat with a built-in bench, or simply place a small table and chairs in front of a window. Either way, it will make your kitchen feel like a charming breakfast nook.

17. Add a bar cart

If you have a little bit of extra room in your kitchen, a bar cart is a great way to incorporate additional storage and a splash of color. You can use a bar cart to store your most-used cooking supplies, or you can use it as a coffee station.

18. Add a bold backsplash

A backsplash is a great way to add color, texture and personality to a kitchen, especially in a galley kitchen where there may not be a lot of wall space to decorate.

In this modern galley kitchen designed by Arent & Pyke, a bold, black-and-white patterned backsplash adds a graphic pop to the white walls and light wood cabinets. The designers selected a simple, square tile to keep the pattern from feeling overwhelming.

19. Add a statement rug

Not quite ready to commit to a new floor? A rug can be a great way to add color and pattern to your space without breaking the bank. Just make sure you choose one that can stand up to the wear and tear of a kitchen. Rugs made of synthetic materials like polypropylene are a great option because they can be easily spot-cleaned and even hosed off outside if needed!

20. Add a statement light fixture

If you’re looking for a way to add a pop of personality to your galley kitchen, look no further than a statement light fixture. A bold pendant light can be the perfect finishing touch to a kitchen makeover, and it’s a great way to add a little bit of color to an otherwise neutral space.

Or, you could opt for a more timeless look with a beautiful brass or bronze pendant. Either way, a statement light fixture is a great way to add a little bit of drama to your galley kitchen.

21. Add a statement piece of art

If you have a blank wall in your kitchen, take advantage of the opportunity to add a pop of color with a statement piece of art. This can be a great way to set the tone for the rest of your kitchen makeover and can be an awesome way to bring in some personality to the space.

If you’re not sure where to start, think about the colors you want to use in your kitchen and look for art that includes those colors. You can also use the art to help you choose a color scheme for your kitchen.

22. Add a bookshelf

If you have the space, a built-in bookshelf is a great way to add character and storage to your kitchen. Use it to store your most beautiful dishes, cookbooks, and other kitchen essentials.

23. Add a statement ceiling

Don’t forget about the ceiling! This often overlooked space is a great spot to add a pop of color or pattern, like in this galley kitchen designed by Emily Henderson. The bold green and white striped ceiling really draws the eye up, making the space feel larger than it is.

Conclusion

Galley kitchens are small, but they can be made to look larger with the right design. We hope you’ve been inspired by these galley kitchen makeover ideas to make the most of the space you have. Share your thoughts in the comments section below.