Washington, DC

When galley kitchens are done wrong, they can be frustratingly small and somehow inefficient at the same time. When galley kitchens are done right, they can be the most effective layout for cooking, cleaning and entertaining, allowing the chef to do all three by just pivoting her stance. The clients came to us with an outdated galley kitchen that lacked storage and design. The footprint of the kitchen wasn’t changing, but that didn’t mean we couldn’t capitalize on creating an efficient layout and maximize the storage while drawing the eye up to accentuate the tall ceilings. A clean contemporary style was chosen to keep the space feeling open and uncluttered. The color palette consists of a pairing of light and dark melamine wood grain finishes with a pop of orange back painted glass backsplash. The backsplash reflects the light off the large window on the opposite end of the kitchen. The back painted glass continues above the cabinets, so the narrow space seems larger. Dark, oil-rubbed bronze finish knobs and pulls punctuate the light wood finish cabinets. Instead of keeping the original, framed drywall pantry closet that wasted space, we designed pantry cabinetry in the light melamine finish. Framing the pantry area with a dark melamine detail highlights the pantry area and makes it appear to float in the space. The backs of the pantry doors were outfitted to accommodate can storage and keep staples organized. We knew that our clients were avid entertainers, so we kept that in mind when designing the versatile eat-in dining niche. We created a deep window ledge that serves as a buffet/serving piece when guests come over. In addition, we outfitted the dining table with casters, allowing the homeowners to use the table for additional prep space, seating or serving, depending on the need. Tucked into the niche, the table has room for 4 seated diners. When pulled out into the room, the table can serve as a wet bar or a serving station for guests to prepare their plates before sitting down in the formal dining room.

Designed by #JGKB. Photography by Bob Narod.