Galley Kitchens - Limited Space

• Galley designs are kitchens that are typically long and narrow, having two separate counter tops on each side of the kitchen (the counter tops do not connect). This design became popular for smaller homes and apartments. An average size for a galley kitchen is eight feet long with approximately three to four feet in width. This design can feel closed in due to the lack of space. However galley kitchens, like most designs, have been updated and modernized. For example, opening up one wall or creating a window that looks into another room such as a family room or a dining room can give it a more modern feel as well as making the space feel larger. Galley kitchens have the sink and fridge on one side and the stovetop/oven on the other. Please visit the Galley Kitchen reference below for pictures and ideas.
  
  

L Shaped with Island

• L shaped kitchens, where one long counter connects with another counter going off in the opposite direction (south and east), are common since they accommodate kitchens of most sizes. For kitchens that do not have a lot of room, the L shape kitchen allows for a dining table, whether it be round or rectangular in shape, to fit in the center of the room. For kitchens that are larger and have adequate space off to the side of the kitchen for a dining table, then an island can be added to the center for additional counter space and storage. However it is important to do proper measuring before placing the island in the center so that you know beforehand that the dishwasher door, oven door and fridge door all open without hitting the island. The size of the island can vary depending on how much space you have. In an L shaped kitchen the major appliances can be situated close enough together for easy access during cooking. Please visit the L Shaped Kitchen reference below for pictures and ideas.
  
  

U Shaped

• U shaped kitchens are also common and can allow for the room to have a full view of other parts of the house, such as the family room or dining room. A typical U shaped kitchen has three sides, with the sink on one counter, the fridge on another side, and the stovetop and oven on another counter. This can be a very successful work triangle if the space in your kitchen is not too large. If there is too much space, then you might feel like you are running all over the place while cooking. One thing to consider if you have three sides of wall space that need counters but there is a large opening of space in the middle is to place an island, made to accommodate a stove top. This will cut down on the amount of running around you would have to do from one end of your kitchen to the next. Please visit the U Shaped Kitchen reference below for pictures and ideas.