Remodel Galley Kitchen In spite of the fact that many feel that galley kitchens are strictly for utility and to conserve space, a galley-type kitchen can be extremely pretty and be functional despite the smaller space. As you begin, take a look at what you have. Pay attention to what will work well and what won’t. Think about what you like and what you don’t. Then begin to make your plans.
Galley kitchens can be as elaborate and pretty as you like. If you design it well, such a kitchen can function for every type of cooking, from just microwaving a meal to being a gourmet cook. This is one of the best advantages of a galley-type kitchen: space is economized as is the movement of the cook.
Begin with a layout and a design. Consider how your work triangle will be set up for maximum efficiency. Are there appliances or fixtures that need to be on the walls and where will you put them? How many points of entry would you like and what will you place next to or across from the sink? If one end were closed with only one point of entry, what will you do with that space? Or will it make your kitchen look bigger with an entry into a breakfast nook or dining room? It will surprise you to know how the kitchen changes when you change any one of these factors.
When your layout is done and you understand what you want out of your kitchen, make plans as to how you can better improve the utility of the available space. Do you need a lot of cabinet space? Can you think of more ways to store things without using the usual kitchen cabinets? What about open plate racks or other ideas?
Put time in selecting your materials. If your kitchen will open out into another room, will your flooring need to be the same or will it be different? Pay attention to the colors of the furniture and appliances so that your rooms harmonize with each other. The cabinets you select will depend on the style of kitchen you’re interested in. The wood on your cabinets and other fixtures will need to accommodate each other. The flooring and wall coverings will need to coordinate. Your countertops should be both functional and pretty. Lastly, pick out the appliances that best fit your plans and the sink that coordinates with everything else.
If you want a galley kitchen, you’ll have to trade off the amount of counter space you’ll get with the type of appliances you’ll need to select. How much space do you want to save for a cook top or oven? Do you want to buy an oven that opens at eye level or do you want one that is nestled beneath the counter space? How big will your refrigerator be? Will you select one that is near the standing counters?
Remember that utility is the number one factor in selecting a galley kitchen, other choices are possible that will provide you will a room that is more open and looks highly polished. One example is to use lighter-colored wood or use cabinets that incorporate glass panels. Having no drawer pulls or cabinet doors make the look extremely sleek and will make everything appear more spacious.
Like many galley kitchens, yours may not have a window to let in sunlight. Make the attempt to bring in extra light from any adjacent rooms or put in a skylight if the home allows. Fluorescent tube light brightens the room. Take a look at the possibility of bright track lighting or fixtures placed under the wall cabinets.
If you have a lot of creativity and an imaginative eye, you can build a galley kitchen that is both functional and beautiful. If you are planning to have an economy, average-type or custom remodeling project, it is possible to create a galley kitchen that is everything you hoped for.
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