When working with small homes, small kitchens often come with the territory. It can be a struggle to achieve the needed floor space and countertop space in a limited area. However, utilizing a one-wall design for your kitchen can provide you with the much-needed functionality that other layouts simply cannot achieve in small spaces.

If you’re thinking about planning out your kitchen layout along a single wall, have a look at the list below. The list includes the most inspiring one-wall kitchens to help you work with your limited horizontal space and create the kitchen you’ve been dreaming of.

A Functional Grey One Wall Kitchen Layout

A simple, linear layout, this kitchen design utilizes a small cooktop and sink to help maximize usable countertop space. The abundance of drawers and cabinets creates more space for storage, keeping things organized and de-cluttered.

This one-wall kitchen also creates visual balance by placing the wall cabinets away from the left-hand corner of the room and using greenery to take up some of the negative space on the right.

Styled by Emma Fisher, Annica Clarmell, and Anna Granberg, photographed by Peter Pousard for Alvhem

An Open and Airy, Yet Compact, Single Wall Kitchen

This one-wall kitchen layout features a narrow stove and large cabinets in an off-white shade of paint that matches the walls of the room. The black countertop provides just enough contrast to create depth while the orientation of the flooring draws you into the workspace.

This color palette provides a sense of space, making the kitchen seem larger than it is. Additionally, the large area of open floor space enhances this effect while improving the work triangle.

Styled by Grey Deco, photographed by Henrik Linden for Alvhem

High Contrast Colors in a One-Wall Kitchen Layout

This one-wall layout uses standard-size appliances as well as a table that can easily function as an island for efficient food preparation and ease of cooking. In smaller homes with limited counter space, furniture that can serve multiple purposes is something to be taken advantage of.

This high-contrast interior design style creates an area of the house that you want to spend time in, while the dining table increases the functionality of the kitchen itself.

Styled by Grey Deco, photographed by Fredrik J Karlsson for Alvhem

One Wall Kitchen Design With Varying Cabinet Depths

For those in search of a unique design that uses a blend of materials, this one-wall design checks all of the boxes. The natural contrast between the marbled countertops, brown kitchen cabinets, and the stainless steel range hood creates visual interest, however, the built-in features are the true star of the show.

The section of cabinets slightly recessed from the natural line created by the lower and side cabinets allows for a greater appearance of space. As a bonus, this design allows you to grab things easily and quickly while cooking your meals.

Styled by Lindholm, photographed by Boukari for Historiska Hem

A Minimalist One Wall Kitchen With Open Shelving

A simplistic design with a rustic feel, this one-wall kitchen features a small stove and sink with plenty of shelving. The use of raw, natural wood for both the kitchen layout and the dining space allows for nearly endless styling and decor options.

The open-face shelves also provide incredible versatility, serving as a place for decor or for storing items that are used frequently and need to be quickly accessed.

Styled by Thomas Lingsell, photographed by Per Orchidéen for Historiska Hem

Sleek Appliances and Cabinets With a Rustic Touch

In a similar design to the previous one-wall kitchen layout, this kitchen also uses wood to create a slightly rustic style. This kitchen, however, uses a much more subdued wood in a combination of vertical and horizontal planks and pairs it with a marble countertop and a full-size, modern stove.

The strip of dark, natural wood spanning the perimeter of the space features versatile pegs that can be used for hanging everything from tools and utensils to small decor items.

via DeVOL Kitchens

Light Grey and Neutral Tones for Peak Functionality

Unlike many one-wall kitchen layouts, this design has found a way to incorporate a full-size refrigerator into the room without compromising either the living space or the work area. The everyday color palette used here allows you to change up the style of the rest of the kitchen area without needing to rework the design or styling of the workspace.

This also allows homeowners to decorate the space in conjunction with the seasons or holidays while maintaining the overall functionality of the kitchen.

via Innerstadsspecialisten

A Dark, Dramatic One Wall Layout

If you’re in search of a more bold kitchen design, this dramatic yet elegant style is for you. The room makes full use of a range of black materials to achieve a dark, monochromatic single-wall kitchen.

Touches of dark brown wood add a layer of depth by breaking up the intensity of the black. To maintain the effect, it’s important to use strategic lighting and dark appliances. The open geometric shelving helps to maximize storage space without adding unnecessary visual weight to the room.

Styled by Nouvel Interior, photographed by Alen Cordic, for sale via Entrance Makleri

Full Cabinetry for Extra Storage Space

Make the most of your one-wall kitchen space by installing a full set of drawers and cabinets. This layout uses different types of cabinetry to provide the most storage opportunities available. These smooth-faced cabinet doors provide a sleek, modern look while keeping your counter space open and free of any clutter.

The simple, low-profile cooktop and built-in stove allow for a wide variety of cooking options. Meanwhile, the medium-sized sink placed strategically in the middle of the countertop space and the mildly recessed upper cabinets ensure comfortable mobility.

Photographed by Frederic Boukari for Historiska Hem

A Fun Color Palette and Open Shelving

Showcase your personality with a fresh, bold color palette. These dark blue cabinets pair well with the dark blue of the sofa in the living room area and pull in tones from the fun and unique rug.

To make the color pop, this single-wall kitchen surrounds the blue with bright white tiles on both the countertop and the wall with a complementary wood tone for the shelves. The floating shelving creates more visual space in the room, making it seem larger.

Styled by Lingsell, photographed by Florbrant for Historiska Hem

Dark Cabinetry Paired With Abundant Natural Light

If your one-wall kitchen has large windows that provide a lot of natural lighting, you can experiment with dark shades without committing to a fully dark and dramatic kitchen.

This design uses built-in appliances, including a camouflaged refrigerator to maintain a uniform look. The mix of shelf sizes creates just a touch of visual interest and utilizes a simple pattern that is easy to replicate when disguising the fridge.

To optimize storage space in your one-wall kitchen layout, go for a floor-to-ceiling kitchen design.

Styled by Emma Fischer, Linnéa H. Manaberi, and Annica Clarmell, photographed by Anders Bergstedt for Alvhem

A Simplistic, Yet Cozy One Wall Kitchen Layout

Classic kitchen layouts are known for their cozy, inviting air and this one-wall layout is no exception. With wall-to-wall countertops and a small dining nook, this kitchen hearkens back to a bygone era.

The simple design provides everything needed for an efficient, streamlined cooking experience by utilizing all of the provided space in a meaningful way. This timeless kitchen design is sure to last a lifetime.

photographed by Krister Engström, styled by Livindeco, sold via Kvarteret Mäkleri

Full-Size Appliances and Floor to Ceiling Tiles

This one-wall kitchen sports full-size, bold appliances and understated tile alongside marbled countertops and a large dining table. Similar to a previous kitchen idea, this design allows the table to double as an additional counter or island space with the brightly colored chairs offering an extra pop of color to the space.

The undermount sink provides a larger usable area on the countertops, something that is both pleasing to the eye and practical.

Styled by Van Keppel, photographed by Andersson for Historiska Hem

Smooth Faced Cabinets and Small Appliances in an Airy Space

This final one-wall kitchen layout combines many of the elements we’ve discussed already. Sleek, smooth cabinets, built-in appliances, an under-mounted sink, large windows, and a floor pattern that draws you in are all present here.

All of these elements come together to create a unique kitchen that’s bright and airy, avoiding any feeling of being cramped as some other small kitchens do.

via Stadshem

Marble is a popular choice for both kitchens and bathrooms, often serving as a more elegant alternative to granite and a more bold alternative to quartz. A marble kitchen island is a fantastic way to bring a sense of wow to your kitchen space without sacrificing function.

The material is easy to clean with a wipe or two but can be susceptible to stains, two things that are crucial to consider in a family home.

In the list below, you can find the most beautiful marble island ideas to help you find the inspiration you need for your perfect kitchen design.

Heavily Veined Marble Kitchen Island Paired With Medium-Toned Wood

This kitchen space uses medium-toned natural wood in the cabinetry, herringbone floor, and decor to allow the boldly veined marble island to truly pop. The white in the marble contrasts with the array of dark wood tones around it, standing out more predominately than it would in an all-white setting.

By using matching material on the countertops and backsplash, you can create a cohesive design. Additionally, the nook underneath the island allows for bar stools to be added for extra functionality.

Note that the bar stools underneath the island are picked out in the same wood tones as the cabinetry for a flair of elegance.

via Nordiska Kök

Subtle Marble In a Neutral Kitchen

If you’re a fan of more understated design, this subtle marble pattern is for you. The light color of the marble doesn’t distract from the rest of the room, instead serving as a touch of texture that’s gentle on the eyes.

This brings together the smooth surface of the cabinets and the texture of the flooring in a way that feels natural. Furthermore, the overall neutral design allows homeowners to prominently display artwork without the stress of feeling overwhelmed by clashing elements.

via Ahre

Under Lighting for an Elegant Touch in Smaller Kitchens

Brighten your space by placing warm-toned LED lighting under the lip of your kitchen island and cabinetry. This island is a bit smaller than average, as is appropriate to the size of the room, but that means you have less to work with when it comes to making an impact.

Adding lighting is a simple way to finish off a modern, high-end design without minimizing the usable spaces. As an added bonus, the lights in this example help to accentuate the coloring and pattern of the marble.

via Sjöman Frisk

Light-Toned Marble in a Sleek Black and White Kitchen

This kitchen island uses a marble pattern that is similar to what you’d see with granite. Unlike the hallmark wide set veining typically seen, this pattern adds just the right amount of visual texture in an otherwise sleek room.

Again, we see the material echoed in the matching backsplash along the wall which plays well with the smooth, dark cabinet doors. This bold, high-fashion style will serve to set the tone for the house, impressing guests at any event.

via Picky Living

A Highly Functional Kitchen Island With Built-In Dining Area

Designed with a blend of functionality and ultra-modernism in mind, this marble kitchen island completely transforms the feel of the space. The thick slab of marble used for the countertop as well as the support structure makes a statement as soon as you enter the space.

The height of the island lends itself well to creating a small dining area that’s perfect for casual meals and conversation while the minimal details in the stools add just enough balance.

via Nordiska Kök

A Marble Island In an Open and Airy Kitchen

The uniquely curved wall and large window provide instant character to this kitchen. You can capitalize on these features by accentuating them with contrasting elements such as in the case of this marble kitchen island.

This island functions as both a decorative piece and a storage area, bringing visual interest to this bright space while allowing you to keep your kitchen clean and tidy. The thinly planked wood flooring and textured rug help to complete this look.

via Entrance Makleri

Mix Marble and Light Wood Cabinets

Mixing materials is a surefire way to create a bold and luxurious feel. Though we’ve seen marble paired with a dark wood, the lighter tone of the cabinet doors here is a better choice in this setting, particularly due to the uniqueness of the kitchen flooring.

These elements combined allow the all-over marble island to be showcased front and center. A similar look can be achieved with quartz, however, quartz is more vulnerable to heat, something that needs to be considered for kitchens.

via Nordiska Kök

Bold, Dramatic Marble for Peak Elegance

Due to the one-of-a-kind nature of marble, many people think of it more as a piece of art than just a countertop material. Proof of this notion can be seen here.

The beautiful, bold veining in this kitchen island is the focal point of the space, made more pronounced by the lack of obvious patterns elsewhere. The solid-colored cabinet doors and small drawers behind the island are the perfect backdrop while the plain yet inviting seating space avoids pulling attention away.

via Sjöman Frisk

Unique Grey Marble in a High Contrast Kitchen

So far, we’ve seen marble in varying shades of white with dark details. But what if you’re looking for something a little more uncommon? In an already uniquely designed kitchen, try an equally distinctive finish for your kitchen island.

This stunning grey marble pairs well with the slightly industrial style of the kitchen, working with the metal elements instead of against them. Additionally, the bench stool seems almost made to fit the space, nestling into the island perfectly.

via Alicia Edelman

Heavily Veined Black and White Marble as the Main Source of Visual Texture

This next look makes a bold statement without the need for added decor. This kitchen island is in a class of its own, and by using it in such a dramatic way, the details could easily become overpowering when combined with other textures and patterns.

Fortunately, these smooth, solid cabinet doors and gentle chevron flooring work to maintain a balance, allowing you to have this incredible piece in your home.

via Nordiska Kök

Grey, Slate-Like Marble Paired With Dark Wood Cabinets

Granite, quartz, and stone countertops all have their pros and cons. However, if you’re looking to combine characteristics of all three, marble is often the way to go.

This slate grey kitchen island helps to bring a sort of compromise to the home without any sacrifice. Plus, when paired with the coffee brown cabinet doors, you’re left with a warm, luxurious look.

via Erik Olsson

A Narrow Marble Island With a Cooktop

Having a small kitchen space doesn’t mean that you have to give up on your dreams of having an island. Designed with an integrated cooktop, this kitchen island creates added countertop storage for extra versatility.

Depending on the size of the space and design of the island, you could add small bar stools for additional seating options or choose an open front island for extra storage.

via Nordiska Kök

A Lightly Patterned Marble Island in a Minimal Kitchen

This kitchen island features subtle details to enhance the chic atmosphere. This is a very high contrast space with the black cabinet doors and drawers sandwiched between the light wood flooring and white walls. By adding an understated island, an air of sophistication without lots of effort.

via Norm Architects

Distinguished Brown-Toned Marble With Dark Neutrals

A granite-like marble is yet another way to add style and personality to your home. This island paired with the palette of dark neutral tones, clean lines, and tasteful decor creates a distinguished yet earthy look that’s as inviting as it is luxurious.

via Nordiska Kök

Intense Black Marble Featuring an Uncommon Design

Finally, this stunning geometric kitchen is sure to be the star of the show in any home. The design of this island checks multiple boxes, including those of functional and elite styling. With an integrated cooktop and recessed bar area, this kitchen island is for more than just looks. For an even bolder look, place this design in a predominantly white space.

via Kvanum

A galley kitchen layout is planned out in rows of cabinetry and appliances placed on opposite walls of a narrow space. A galley kitchen layout makes it easy to grab what you need while you prepare a delicious meal since everything is within arm’s reach. However, some homeowners find this kitchen style confining and challenging to navigate due to limited square footage.

In the list below, you can find the most creative galley kitchen ideas that are both practical and stylish at the same time. You don’t need to sacrifice style if you have a galley kitchen. Read on to discover some inspirational design ideas that will get you excited about creating an original kitchen refresh of your own.

Take Advantage of Natural Light

Since galley kitchens have smaller footprints, this designer left the window at the end wall open, allowing the sunlight to pour in. The absence of curtains or blinds encourages natural light to flow into the room, giving the illusion of a larger space.

A large window like this one is typically enough to provide ample lighting during the day. Despite its narrow layout, this beautiful galley kitchen feels big, open, and airy thanks to the design. Note how the wall closest to the window doesn’t have cabinets, helping the space feel less cramped.

The open shelving is attached right above the kitchen backsplash and its location right next to the window makes it ideal for a green plant.

via Historiska Hem

Integrate Open Shelving

Open shelving adds storage while helping galley kitchens look roomier. However, there are still kitchen cabinets on one wall, offering plenty of hidden storage for cooking essentials in this sage green kitchen.

The use of a beautiful green color helps this kitchen feel light and bright. Regardless of its galley layout, the space looks functional and beautiful all in one. This design proves that even in small spaces, you can still enjoy lots of functionality.

Not that the cabinetry on the left side starts more narrow, to give this galley kitchen a more spacious look and feel. The open shelving is painted in the same color as the kitchen cabinets for a beautiful effect against the limewash walls.

Styled by Anna Van Keppel, photographed by Mia Borgelin, for sale via Historiska Hem

Maximize the Use of a Narrow Space

Despite this being a narrow galley kitchen, there’s still enough room to cook and eat. At the end of the room is an extension of the counter that creates a bar top along with stools for a nice breakfast nook which gives this galley kitchen two functions in one.

A plethora of countertops provide lots of surface area so the homeowner can prep, cook, and eat without running out of room. Even though this is a small galley kitchen, there’s ample space to do everything you need here without feeling cramped.

The upper cabinets don’t continue up to the ceiling, making the space feel larger and allowing the white ceilings to bounce light back into the small space.

via deVOL Kitchens

Use Neutral Tones for Versatility

When brainstorming galley kitchen ideas, using the right colors will make a big impact. This interior designer opted for butcher block countertops and a soft color palette to make the kitchen feel larger. White walls, floors, and upper cabinets help to give it an airy feel.

Thanks to the open floor plan in this home, the galley kitchen opens to another room with a dining table and chairs, adding to the functionality. A beautiful rose pink color on the wall helps to separate the two spaces, even though they’re technically connected.

The wood tone of the butcher block countertops comes back in the small glass cabinet on the wall, which is a nice and elegant touch. Even though the kitchen doesn’t get any direct natural light, by selecting a light floor and white cabinetry, the galley kitchen still looks light and bright.

via Stadshem

Use Built-Ins for Extra Storage

This small galley kitchen has a distinctively modern style thanks to the use of bold colors and contemporary finishes. The navy blue pantry and cabinets and the white built-ins on the opposite wall offer loads of extra storage for everything from plates and cookware to spices.

The design here proves that you don’t need to have an all-white kitchen to enjoy a functional space. An open floor plan offers enough room for a separate eating area. It also helps to make a tight space feel much more open.

Styled by Emma Fisher, photographed by Anders Bergstedt for Alvhem

Add a Feature Wall

Bold patterned kitchen wallpaper on a feature wall draws the eye toward this modern galley kitchen. A white backsplash with subway tile adds to the high-end aesthetic. Many galley kitchens have a plain, basic design, but not here.

Dark base cabinets ground the room, while modern hardware and solid surface marble countertops give it a luxe vibe. Integrating lots of greenery on an assortment of open shelves makes this galley kitchen feel cozy yet contemporary for an eye-catching finishing touch.

via Alvhem

Keep it Light

White can make a small space feel larger and this galley kitchen design uses white combined with a very muted sage green to do just that. Under cabinet lighting adds functionality and a warm glow for cooking and entertaining.

A transom window that likely opens to a living area brings a visually elongating effect to this chic galley kitchen. Even with small layouts, this design shows you can still enjoy a versatile space while maintaining a sense of style.

The side of the galley kitchen cabinetry has a light wood built-in shelf that offers a small storage module next to the dining area.

via Entrance Makleri

Make it Minimalist

Simple kitchen designs are often the most effective. This ultra-modern galley kitchen features flat panel cabinets to reduce the appearance of visual clutter. An extra lower cabinet on the end doubles as a comfy seat, adding even more versatility to this modern space.

Since the colors are similar for the cabinets and counters, it creates a cohesive look. Rather than opting for classic white cabinets, the designer chose a subtle, earthy color instead.

Styled and photographed by Therese Jahnson for Historiska Hem

Combine a Variety of Materials to Add Texture

Even if you have a galley kitchen, it doesn’t have to be boring. In this design, a blend of different materials creates a visual feast and a nice juxtaposition between natural and modern elements. Wood countertops on one side play beautifully with the higher-end marble countertops on the other.

The tile backsplash on one side distinguishes the two walls, and the other is simply painted white. High ceilings also give the illusion of a much larger space. There’s also plenty of counter space for small appliances and other kitchen must-haves.

Photographed by Jonas Berg for Entrance Makleri

Add Personal Touches to Make a Galley Kitchen Unique

This chic galley kitchen boasts an ultra-modern vibe with a unique gallery wall for a pop of personality. Utilizing the plain wall at one end for artwork allows the homeowner to showcase their personal collection, giving it a one-of-a-kind look.

Stainless steel appliances and shades of gray also help to make this galley kitchen appear more modern. Industrial-inspired statement lighting above the sink adds functionality and a fresh, contemporary touch.

via Entrance Makleri

Take Advantage of Windows

Even with minimal floor space, you can still maximize your galley kitchen’s functionality. For example, the large window in this kitchen makes a perfect area for a dining table and chairs which transforms the space into an eat-in galley kitchen.

The more things you can do in the kitchen, the more you can maximize any available space. White is the base color in this room, while the black dining chairs and light wood decor bring a fun and creative element. If you want to spice things up, you could easily replace the existing rug with a colorful runner for a playful pop.

Styled by Grey Deco, photographed by Jonas Berg for Stadshem

Keep Things Simple

Although this galley kitchen is larger than most, the interior designer chose to keep things simple. A large arched window allows the light to bounce off reflective surfaces like the white floors.

Brass hardware for the sink brings this kitchen a fun, sleek component as well as the wall shelving on the opposite side. This design demonstrates that you can add other things to your kitchen including decorative accessories and wall art without being excessive.

via Stadshem

Hide Items Out of View

A large pantry on one end of this galley kitchen and lots of lower cabinets give the homeowner tons of storage. Instead of placing small appliances on top of the counters, they’ve chosen to keep them hidden from view until they’re needed.

Cutting out clutter makes even the most narrow galley kitchen look roomy. The taller upper cabinets on the pantry help maximize vertical space to provide even more convenient storage for coffee mugs, dinner plates, and other important dining essentials.

via Nordiska Kök

Be Smart with Your Layout

if your kitchen is long and narrow, one of the best galley kitchen ideas is to design a smart, efficient layout. Here, one end of the counters has been cut short, adding more space for a small table and chairs instead.

By “chopping up” the layout, it gives this galley kitchen extra room to enjoy eating breakfast and other meals. Large lower cabinets and deep drawers also help to maximize space for the storage of bulky items like pots and pans.

via Entrance Makleri

Install Task Lighting in a Narrow Galley kitchen

This kitchen has a challenging layout, so the designer opted to implement extra task lighting. By installing some lighting above the sink and a section of the countertops, the kitchen is much brighter, especially at night when no light is coming from the window.

The more lighting you have in a room, the larger it will feel. This is especially important in a small galley kitchen since you’ll need to be able to see what you’re doing while you cook.

via Alexander White

Make it Elegant

Galley kitchen ideas can be as elegant and dramatic as you like. In this kitchen, the homeowner chose a beautiful white farmhouse sink and marble countertops.

Black cabinets and a black hood fan bring drama to this small yet sweet cooking space. Glass doors on some of the upper cabinets also help to make the space look and feel a bit larger.

via Alvhem