Galley Kitchen Dilemma

Yes, I can see that your kitchen does indeed lack counter space. I am wondering since the bank of cabinets with the sink seems to be in the middle of two parallel passageways, to what extent do you feel you really need two entrances into the work triangle area of the kitchen (triangle between the sink, stove, and fridge) ?

I would suggest that you consider adding an additional bank of shallow cabinets along the wall with the doorway. Although doing this would block off the access to the kitchen from the hallway, it would give you more of an L-shaped configuration of countertop workspace.

As far as your question whether removing the panelling would make the area seem larger, I would say that it would make the kitchen lighter. However, be aware that the removal process is likely going to damage the drywall underneath. This damaged portion would need to be removed also, then replaced, before painting the entire wall.

Hi Cynthia,

Do not put Fridge next to Stove! Microwave is ok over Stove. White with gold accents - great to make it look bigger. Best wishes

If you are considering purchasing an apartment sized fridge to allow for more light into the work area of the kitchen, I would suggest that you also check into counter-depth fridges. These are a couple of inches shallower than a conventional sized fridge. By removing the baseboard behind the fridge, a couple more inches of depth can often be gained.

Also keep in mind that some smaller fridges are fridge-only, without a freezer section. If you already have a separate freezer for frozen foods, then a smaller fridge-only appliance may be an option for you. It would fit the scale of your kitchen better, and be more attractive than a large fridge/freezer style.

Hello. We remodel our kitchen almost 6 years ago. To make it bigger and brighter we put in white kitchen cabinets and enlarged the room entry opening. Would it be possible to open up your doorway a little more. Looks like the HVAC is above which is a good thing.

Please post your updates. My kitchen is small and set up the same as yours. I too, am looking for suggestions.

I would not remove the paneling as it will be costly, messy, and time consuming. Just scuff sand, prime and paint it! Where are you standing to take the pic? Are you in a breakfast nook? Consider taking that space over for more counters and lower cabinets. Can you move the entire center section to the paneled wall? THAT would make an open kitchen with room for everything along with more counters.

I would also remove the paneling or paint it a brighter color. Are you planning on painting the cabinets a lighter color or updating the counter tops at all? That would make a huge difference! If you want to know how you can painting the cupboards without having to sand - check out this post. https://happydealhappyday.com/how-to-paint-kitchen-cabinets-without-sanding/

For the back splash you can use peel and stick tiles or paint it lighter to make it more open. Can you take out the wall where the fridge goes? What is the area before your kitchen, can you expand into that area? Please take some more pictures for better input.

Would it be possible to remove the opposing wall

Removing or painting the paneling would brighten the space. Removing would cause some damage that can be patched. Painting the cabinets a light color would make it look larger. Microwave over the stove is fine. This would be a quick fix and something to temporary live with.

Now, do you need that far end doorway. Can it be closed up. What is that bump out next to where the stove would go. I assume it's a closet in the other room. Can that be removed. Closing off the doorway and removing the bump out would give you extra cabinet space and countertop space in a "U" shape.

Personally I would move the soffit, upper cabinets, and sink cabinets 2' into the paneled room. Lot of work but bigger kitchen. Things to possibly consider in the future.

Hi! I would paint, not remove the paneling unless you don't mind repairing the wall underneath! The bump out next to the range hood has me curious - is it the back of a closet? If so, you could gain space for your fridge there, keeping it separated from the stove heat, and gain counter space next to the stove. Good luck!

Painting could really help! Here is how I painted my cabinets: https://www.aratariathome.com/blog/how-to-paint-kitchen-cabinets