Single-Wall Galley Kitchens Catch the 'I'
I-shape kitchen layouts take a streamlined, flexible approach and can be easy on the wallet too
When it comes to kitchen layouts, certain alphabet letters get all the love. There's the U shape, the L shape, the G shape. But you don't hear as much about the I shape: a kitchen that occupies just one wall.
This style, also known as a single galley, is a must for some, a choice for others. If you live in an open loft, a pocket-size condo or a tiny cottage, the I shape might be the only logical way to orient your kitchen cabinetry and appliances. Even with a little more breathing room, though, you may simply gravitate to this streamlined approach and its advantages.
This style, also known as a single galley, is a must for some, a choice for others. If you live in an open loft, a pocket-size condo or a tiny cottage, the I shape might be the only logical way to orient your kitchen cabinetry and appliances. Even with a little more breathing room, though, you may simply gravitate to this streamlined approach and its advantages.
Flexibility. Without the constrictions of all fixed cabinetry and islands, single galley kitchens lend themselves to modular extras that can be moved around as needed. Many kitchens of this type incorporate a freestanding table or cart to be pulled into service as a dining space, makeshift work zone or place for guests.
Budget friendliness. Less cabinetry and less countertop area usually equal cost savings on materials. If you're pinching pennies, you may be able to keep the price tag low by choosing affordable surfaces and finishes. If there's wiggle room in your wallet, pricier options may be within reach because you won't need big quantities.
Budget friendliness. Less cabinetry and less countertop area usually equal cost savings on materials. If you're pinching pennies, you may be able to keep the price tag low by choosing affordable surfaces and finishes. If there's wiggle room in your wallet, pricier options may be within reach because you won't need big quantities.
Cons of I-Shape Kitchens
Less storage area. Because cabinetry must share wall space with countertops and appliances, storage comes at a premium in this layout. In addition to editing down your kitchen paraphernalia, consider specialized cabinet and drawer inserts; hooks, racks and open shelving on adjacent walls; freestanding case goods; and other space savers.
Limited countertop surface. As with cabinetry, countertop space in an I-shape kitchen is precious. Consider a small portable island that you can pull in when you need more prep space, or use your dining table as a worktable.
Less storage area. Because cabinetry must share wall space with countertops and appliances, storage comes at a premium in this layout. In addition to editing down your kitchen paraphernalia, consider specialized cabinet and drawer inserts; hooks, racks and open shelving on adjacent walls; freestanding case goods; and other space savers.
Limited countertop surface. As with cabinetry, countertop space in an I-shape kitchen is precious. Consider a small portable island that you can pull in when you need more prep space, or use your dining table as a worktable.
Two-cook chaos. Multiple cooks easily can trip over each other as they tread the line from fridge to stove to sink and back. If you frequently cook with a partner, try to divide tasks in a way that minimizes bumping elbows. Or simply agree to take turns.
Foot traffic. If your I-shape kitchen sits in a crossbar between frequently used rooms, it might become a passageway between them — and cooks' frustrations can mount quickly. Assuming you have the option, ask family and guests to use another route.
What other advantages and disadvantages of I-shape kitchens have you found? Please share your experiences in the Comments below.
Foot traffic. If your I-shape kitchen sits in a crossbar between frequently used rooms, it might become a passageway between them — and cooks' frustrations can mount quickly. Assuming you have the option, ask family and guests to use another route.
What other advantages and disadvantages of I-shape kitchens have you found? Please share your experiences in the Comments below.
Ease of access. Although they're not as efficient as kitchens that have a classic work triangle, single galley kitchens put gear and groceries within quick reach. There are no deep corner cabinets or other spots where equipment may get pushed out of the way, so your things stay close at hand. Appliances tend to be close together as well.
Small footprint. If square footage is tight, an I-shape layout can do wonders to conserve space and lend a sense of openness. The relatively shallow footprint frees up as much floor area as possible.