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Galley kitchens take some getting used to, but when designed efficiently, they are an attractive place to cook. Help Me! I recently purchased a small condo and I'm completely gutting the kitchen and starting over. What are some tips to ensure that I make the most of my limited space? 
Photo: Age Fotostock
Home Rescue: Galley kitchens are the most common in urban environments - they're efficient, functional options for ultra-small spaces. But there's a fine line between functionality and over-cramped disaster. "When trying to cleverly exploit the space you have, creativity is essential," says designer Shawn Henderson. "The key is to attain a harmonious balance of efficiency, functionality and of course, style." Here are some of Henderson's best tips for designing the most stylish, useful galley kitchen possible.
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You've Got Space
The surface materials that you select can make or break even a well-designed galley kitchen.
The best kitchens are ones with durable materials that you love and that reflect your style. "I like to use a highly graphic stone for a bold statement or a completely neutral stone, such as a synthetic
Caesarstone, for the countertop," says Henderson. If your tastes crave something extra, incorporate a mosaic tile or marble backsplash.
Extending the floor into the kitchen from the adjacent room brings uniformity and the idea of greater space.
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Youve Got Space
The surface materials that you select can make or break even a well-designed galley kitchen.
The best kitchens are ones with durable materials that you love and that reflect your style. "I like to use a highly graphic stone for a bold statement or a completely neutral stone, such as a synthetic Caesarstone, for the countertop," says Henderson. If your tastes crave something extra, incorporate a mosaic tile or marble backsplash.
Extending the floor into the kitchen from the adjacent room brings uniformity and the idea of greater space.
Youve Got Space
Lighting is another important part of the design process many people overlook. The right lighting can make a tiny, dark space feel airy and open.
Accentuate any natural light available -- don't hide it with dark or bulky window treatments.
An overhead light might seem sufficient but creates shadows. "I like to incorporate under-cabinet lighting to help create a sense of balance," Henderson says.
Recessed lighting provides ambiance and is a great decorative touch. Add lighting above cabinets to draw the eye up toward the ceiling as well as underneath, which will brighten the room and make it feel bigger.
Youve Got Space
"Using every available square inch efficiently is very important in making the most of a small space," says Henderson.
Clear out useless and repetitive equipment and pare down to the ones you actually use on a daily basis -- this is imperative to achieving the look of an open, orderly and airy space.
"I love the look of hanging pots and pans - not only does this create extra storage space but it also looks attractive," he says. "Hanging keeps these bulky items out of the way and gives you easy access when you need them."
Roll-out shelves double storage space, and a built-in trash unit keeps the limited floor space open. Deep drawers, as well as focused add-ins such as spice racks can help with organization. "I'm a big fan of drawer organizers and believe there should be a dedicated 'home' for everything."
Make the most of your vertical space. Ceiling-height cabinets maximize storage space while creating sleek lines. Open shelving is another option for making your small kitchen seem larger than it is.
Typically, lighter colors will give a small area a less-cramped feeling. Opt for pale colors for cabinets, and use colorful accessories to brighten up the room.
The color scheme depends on personal style. "Try painting the cabinetry for an updated look," Shawn says. "For example, I like to match the cabinet color with the existing trim of the apartment for a cohesive and streamlined look."
Youve Got Space
Appliances typically take up a significant amount of space -- but the gas range, refrigerator/freezer and dishwasher are absolute necessities if you enjoy cooking. Thankfully, manufacturers now offer space-saving, sleek stainless steel models that resourcefully utilize the minimal space.
Refrigerator/freezer: A great alternative (for those who don't overload their fridge with food) is an under-counter/cabinet option. "However, if you love to cook like I do," says Henderson, "Leibherr makes a superb refrigerator where the entire unit is concealed behind cabinetry panels. The unit is incredibly easy to install and far less expensive then most integrated models."
Viking makes a fantastic 24-inch Professional Series Gas range and offers professional cooking performance in a compact size, Henderson says. "You do not have to compromise quality because of limited space."
Miele has an 18" wide dishwasher that fits flawlessly in a galley kitchen.
Youve Got Space
Finally, get creative and amp up your style with the final accessories.
Hardware and fixtures can help tie the entire look together. Choose interesting hardware, such as ones from the Van Dykes catalog and Waterworks. "I'm a big fan of mixing metals; brass accessories and knobs are de rigueur and look stunning with contrasting stainless steel," Henderson says. "These elements will make a big statement in your compact space."
In small spaces, decorative objects should always be functional and practical: An eye-catching teapot on top of the range can add a decorative touch. Vintage Apothecary jars are great for storing coffee, tea or pastries. "And fresh potted herbs are genius," he says. "They make charming accessories while still being useful."
Youve Got Space
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Source: http://www.shelterpop.com/2011/04/26/galley-kitchen/
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