Best Cabinet Layouts for Galley Kitchens

Designing a galley kitchen comes with its own set of challenges and rewards. Known for its space efficiency and linear design, this layout is ideal for apartments, small homes, and ADUs. But to make the most of it, the right cabinet choices and layout strategies are key. At 27estore, we specialize in European-style, customizable kitchen cabinets - including shallow options that make a significant difference in tight spaces

A galley kitchen typically consists of two parallel cabinet runs with a walkway in between. This corridor-like design maximizes functionality in a small footprint. Some variations use a single wall of cabinetry if the space opens into a dining or living area.

The most important goals in a galley kitchen are maintaining workflow and optimizing storage. With limited square footage, every inch counts. A well-planned cabinet layout can support the kitchen work triangle, ensure ease of movement, and create a balanced visual impression.

• Shallow Base Cabinets for Tight Clearance
  One of the most common issues in galley kitchens is tight clearance. Standard base cabinets are 24 inches deep, which can shrink walking space. Our 11 3/4-inch deep shallow base cabinets provide the same premium look and functionality without the bulk. They're ideal for walkways narrower than 48 inches, helping preserve safe and comfortable circulation.
• Narrow Wall Cabinets for Overhead Storage
  Galley kitchens benefit from vertical storage, but bulky overhead cabinets can make the space feel closed in. We offer wall cabinets in heights from 12 to 48 inches and widths starting at 9 inches, giving you flexibility to match the proportions of your kitchen.
• Tall Pantry and Utility Cabinets for Vertical Storage
  For added functionality, tall cabinets can be incorporated at the ends of the galley or next to appliances. Available in widths from 9 to 48 inches and heights from 86 to 96 inches, these cabinets provide valuable storage without overwhelming the room.

• Symmetrical Two-Wall Layout
  A classic galley layout features cabinetry on both walls. This balanced setup supports an efficient work triangle and maximizes storage. If full-depth cabinets crowd the walkway, consider using shallow cabinets on one side to maintain flow.
• One-Wall Galley with Island or Peninsula
  In open-plan settings, a one-wall layout paired with an island can offer the best of both worlds. Full-depth cabinets may work here, but shallow cabinets can still be helpful for maintaining an airy feel and supporting visual cohesion.
• Galley Layout with Built-In Appliances
  Built-in appliances such as ovens, refrigerators, and dishwashers can be integrated into the galley flow with the right cabinets. Tall cabinets designed for appliances ensure everything fits seamlessly while maximizing available space.
• Using Corners Wisely
  Corner spaces are often wasted. Blind corner cabinets or diagonal corner units help make the most of these tricky areas. Reduced-depth options are also available for tighter layouts.

• Custom Drawer Inserts and Pull-Outs
  Even shallow base cabinets can be storage powerhouses with the right accessories. Drawer inserts, pull-out trays, and vertical dividers help make the most of limited depth.
• Floating Shelves and Open Storage
  To reduce visual weight, consider using floating shelves instead of upper cabinets in some areas. This keeps the space feeling open while still offering functionality.
• Integrated Trash/Recycling and Utility Storage
  Narrow base cabinets are ideal for hiding pull-out trash and recycling bins or housing slim cleaning supply compartments.

• Custom Drawer Inserts and Pull-Outs
  Even shallow base cabinets can be storage powerhouses with the right accessories. Drawer inserts, pull-out trays, and vertical dividers help make the most of limited depth.
• Floating Shelves and Open Storage
  To reduce visual weight, consider using floating shelves instead of upper cabinets in some areas. This keeps the space feeling open while still offering functionality.
• Integrated Trash/Recycling and Utility Storage
  Narrow base cabinets are ideal for hiding pull-out trash and recycling bins or housing slim cleaning supply compartments.

Many mass-market options don’t offer shallow depths or narrow widths. That means wasted space and awkward compromises in a galley layout.

At 27estore, our nearly full customization allows you to specify widths, depths, and heights to suit your exact needs. Whether you're designing around a support column or fitting an appliance between two walls, we offer solutions tailored to your space. For apartment renovations and tight urban kitchens, you can also explore our full modern apartment cabinets collection.

Galley kitchens are a smart solution for compact homes, but they demand careful cabinet planning. From shallow base cabinets that preserve floor space to tall utility cabinets that add vertical storage, the right layout can transform a narrow space into a functional and stylish kitchen.

For more space-saving strategies, see how we applied these same principles in our article on 12-inch deep base cabinets for small kitchens.