The term ‘galley kitchen’ is one which comes up frequently, but the feature’s origins and benefits are not always discussed.
Generally defined as two parallel benches or cabinets facing each other, the term galley kitchen was originally used to describe a kitchen on a vessel or ship where there was limited space, according to Humphrey Homes Interior Designer Joie Stevenson.
“In residential design we tend to stretch this definition and create extra spaces to book-end a galley kitchen, with a desk, e-nook area or a beautiful built-in piece of furniture,” she said.
“We design some kitchens with galley-style sculleries, mirroring the kitchen and creating a space to hide away mess.
“We also use the term to describe a kitchen which is open to the living area of a home with an island bench in between.”
Ms Stevenson said people who liked to entertain while cooking could benefit from a galley kitchen.
“New-style galley kitchens tend to have one side open to the living area of a home and utilise space well,” she said. “You can have a lot happening in a reasonably compact area, bearing in mind the kitchen work triangle which dictates that the sink, fridge and oven should all be within a couple of steps.
“These days we design kitchens with multiple chefs in mind to cater for families that cook together and do homework in the kitchen before dinner.
“I always ask my clients how they live, how they cook and if they entertain regularly, to fully grasp their lifestyle and how they will use their home.
“Our Architect Helen and I then respond to these design briefs and make sure the kitchen and scullery area works well for their needs. After all, the kitchen is the heart and hub of the home.”
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This story first appeared in The West Australian's New Homes liftout on October 5, 2019.