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11 of the best Galley Kitchen Lighting Ideas

Galley kitchens typically are arranged like a narrow hall with cabinets on one or both sides. While the arrangement can be convenient and save space, these kitchens can sometimes feel cramped. The lighting you choose for your galley kitchen can make all the difference.

Create an Island

By removing one wall of your galley kitchen and creating an island, you can give the space a much more open feel as Joe Human of Designs By Human did here. Two clean, globe pendants illuminate the island. All-white cabinets reflect plans of light while blue base cabinets provide an unexpected pop of color.

Enhance the Backsplash

Kelly Taylor of Kelly Taylor Interior Designs selected a linear backsplash tile to complement this open galley kitchen. It picks up on the warm tones of the wood floor, while also relating to the white cabinets. The result is neutral but also adds movement to the space. The space features recessed lights and a simple pendant hangs above the sink.

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Wood Plus White

While all-white kitchens have been popular in recent years, try combining warm wood tones with crisp white surfaces. This results in a kitchen that feels both cozy and modern. Recessed lights provide task lighting as needed, while a dramatic linear wood fixture feels like part of the architecture.

Stick with Black and White

Black and white always looks fresh and modern for a kitchen design. Complement the look with under cabinet lighting, which works especially well with a white backsplash as it reflects the light. Minimal linear and circular pendants look sleek and make the space feel taller.

Bohemian Vibes

This cozy galley kitchen is infused with color and texture, making it an inviting and homey space in which to prepare a meal. Embrace the smaller scale of your galley kitchen by adding hanging plants, a fluffy rug and patterned wallpaper. Brass hardware works with a semi-flush mount pendant to add a finished touch.

Light and Bright

For this galley kitchen design, Joe Human of Designs By Human opted for clean white cabinets, soft blue backsplashes and recessed lighting. Recessed lights can make a low ceiling feel higher. White cabinets and ceilings help to reflect more natural lighting.

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Find Your Rhythm

Combining recessed lighting with simple pendants can make your galley kitchen feel more spacious. White cabinets and countertops can contribute to the effect. Establish a sense of rhythm with your light fixtures to add depth to the space.

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Go Custom

A sleek recessed linear light provides a modern edge to this galley kitchen design by Joe Human of Designs By Human. Marble slab walls, modern millwork and white surfaces contribute to the high-end look. Custom millwork can be worth the price for a tailored, built-in effect that maximizes a small space.

Consider a Bold Color

Orange is not a typical color choice for a kitchen, but these orange base cabinets make quite the statement. The rest of the surfaces are kept minimal and modern, accented by simple white drum pendants. A pop of blue upholstery brings the bold look together.

Color and Coordination

This sunny galley kitchen benefits from crisp white walls and cabinets with a pop of color in the form of colorful artwork and a rug. Brass cabinet pulls coordinate with a simple wall sconce and a semi-flush mount fixture with glass globes. While the space is long and narrow, it manages to feel bright and inviting.

Blank Slate

Painting your galley kitchen all white is a great way to make the space feel more open, as Jill Shevlin of Jill Shevlin Design did here. Try coordinating the finish of your fixture with your hardware, and stick with clean lines for both. Incorporating recessed lighting can supplement your other lighting sources.

Even though galley kitchens are notoriously narrow and sometimes cramped, with the right finishes and the right lighting you can make your kitchen feel much more open. From semi-flush mounts to recessed light fixtures, there are plenty of options in a range of styles that can work for a galley kitchen. We hope these tips have helped to guide you in your selection.



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