The Philippine Institute of Interior Designers (PIID) celebrated its 60th Anniversary last October 5 at Centro de Turismo in Intramuros, Manila. Interior designers, architects, suppliers, and various industry partners attended the event held at the old San Ignacio Church, which PIID rehabilitated and transformed into the country’s tourism center. “In Chinese tradition, 60 years is […]
Galley Kitchens: Making the Most of Every Inch
Are you tight on space but want to showcase your cooking creativity? Living in a smaller home doesn’t have to mean sacrificing your culinary dreams. If you have a galley kitchen, we got some space hacks to maximize functionality without sacrificing an inch of style.
The Galley and its Backstory
The galley kitchen originated in ships, trains, or aircrafts to cook and prepare meals for passengers and crew. It typically featured a narrow aisle about 3 to 5 feet long between two parallel walls of cabinets and appliances.
This compact design had to cleverly use its limited space with an efficient layout. Overhead and base cabinets line the walls to provide ample storage, with appliances like stoves built in to prevent spills caused by the vehicle’s movement.
This efficient kitchen idea came from the proposed design of American author, columnist, and home economist Christine Frederick in 1913. Inspired Austrian architect Margarete Schütte-Lihotzky developed the Frankfurt kitchen model in 1926 to alleviate the housing crisis in the aftermath of World War I. This became the blueprint of modern galley kitchens today. Over time, galley kitchens found their way into homes to still seamlessly carry out your kitchen chores.
Small Space, Big Advantages
Galley kitchens may be limited in space, but they offer a lot in terms of comfort and convenience. Inside its confined space are some major benefits ranging from economic to ergonomic.
Compared to other kitchen layouts, galleys are relatively smaller, which means lower costs for installation or remodeling. Since its features are practically minimized to fit the space, you can save your budget on other kitchen essentials.
Additionally, this layout offers space-saving solutions for all your equipment. Aside from leaving no unused corners, this design allows you to have access to kitchenware and key appliances within arm’s reach. It also provides more storage since cabinets and countertops enclose the area. Plus, you can have all the workspace to yourself as it is specifically designed for minimal foot traffic.
Aside from easy-access, galley kitchens are also easier to maintain. Because of its straightforward design, you can quickly spot dirt and dust and wipe them off in one swift direction. And since kitchen services are placed closely together, it’s also easier for plumbers and electricians to locate and repair damages.
Not a Tiny Galley
Like any other cramped spaces, galley kitchens can look and feel spacious with a few tweaks and visual tricks.
Perpendicular vs. Parallel Flooring
Regardless of the material, and depending how you want the galley to feel, how you orient your flooring can make a big difference. Installing your flooring perpendicular to the walls creates the illusion of making the aisle feel wider. On the other hand, if you want it to look longer, install the flooring parallel to your cabinetry.
Horizontal vs. Vertical Backsplash
Similar to the length/width enhancing function of floors, your backsplash can also help make your space feel more spacious. Again, orienting the backsplash tiles horizontally creates the illusion of length, while placing them vertically adds height and depth for added visual dynamics.
Keep it simple
Stick to standard or smaller appliances to avoid a cramped and overcrowded space. Better to include only the essentials and refrain from adorning the kitchen with unnecessary decorations to emphasize its clean lines. In other words, adopt a minimalist style.
Keep it light
Light or neutral color schemes create an open and airy ambiance as these hues mimic natural light. Apart from walls, you can also use these colors in cabinets, counters, flooring, and even appliances.
Keep the aisle clear
As much as possible, avoid placing a permanent kitchen island or breakfast bar in the middle of the walkway. Instead, opt for foldable, mountable, or movable options to keep your work triangle free of distractions.
Galley kitchens rewrite the rules for limited spaces. These compact powerhouses unlock an interior design potential by redefining the idea that kitchens should always be spacious. It is a statement that area restrictions won’t hinder your cooking passion. By adopting a chef’s workstation-like style, you can transform this afterthought narrow portion into the heart of your home.
Read more: A Studio Type Apartment That’s Big on Style
Kasalukuya’t Kasaysayan ng Artista ng Bayan (ABAY), 1985-1994, is an important historical exhibit in today’s stormy political times. Containing twenty-one artists and former members of Martial Law-era group ABAY, it displays the important work of cultural workers in mass movements in changing the world today. Lisa Ito curated the works of the exhibit. In a […]
Jason M. Allen, the “artist” infamously known for winning an art contest with AI-generated artwork, sued the U.S. copyright office over their decision to reject his petition for copyright protection for the award-winning artwork. The artwork, “Théâtre d’Opéra Spatial,” became controversial after it won the Colorado State Fair’s art competition in 2022. Allen created the […]
You might have encountered the ‘very demure, very mindful’ trend all over social media platforms these days. It’s not easy to escape when everyone seems to have their own forthright or ironic interpretation of this phrase. While this is mostly displayed through an individual’s behavior and aesthetics, did you know that this phenomenon can also […]
M+ typically creates exhibitions based on their collection, but the I. M. Pei Retrospective is an exception. Although the museum only had three items from the architect, the city in which it stands and where he once lived resonates with his global influence. Born out of a decade-long research process, helmed by Shirley Surya and […]
Bang & Olufsen, the renowned luxury Danish audio and video brand, relaunched its flagship store at Shangri-La Plaza Mall. Spanning 124 square meters, the newly renovated space reflects the brand’s signature Scandinavian aesthetic and cutting-edge technology. The store showcases a full range of premium products that deliver unparalleled audio and visual experiences. An Immersive Journey […]
Download this month's BLUPRINT magazine digital copy from:
Subscribe via [email protected]