A galley kitchen features two parallel countertops with a walkway in between. Equal parts cozy and compact — a galley kitchen layout has all the ingredients you need to cook up the meal prep and dining space of your dreams. Click along to see 20 gorgeous galley kitchen designs and read our top galley kitchen remodel tips article for more great ideas.

Use the small scale of your galley kitchen to your advantage and splurge on luxurious materials that would cost a fortune in larger, traditional kitchen layouts. Here, interior designer Marie Flanigan creates a drool-worthy statement in a modern galley kitchen with creamy Calacatta Vagli marble counters, backsplash and range hood. Lacquered white cabinetry plays a supporting role in the space, ensuring the veined stone features shine as the focal point of the design.

Want to maximize every available square inch in your galley kitchen? Make this cozy coral kitchen by Barbie Palomino your blueprint and fill the awkward gap between your kitchen cabinets and the adjoining wall with a pint-sized, built-in banquette. Paint your built-in bench the same hue as your existing cabinets to maintain a cohesive visual. And, pro tip: Opt for a pedestal-style table to free up as much floor space possible.

If you're working with little natural light in your galley kitchen, don’t be afraid to join the dark side. Lean into the shadowy space and paint your galley kitchen cabinets a moody black or rich jewel tone in a high-gloss finish. Pair the dark hue with a creamy white, ivory or gray stone countertop for visual balance. And for a sparkling finish, dress the cabinets with polished nickel or unlacquered brass hardware, and select statement-making light fixtures to illuminate from overhead.