15 Stunning Galley Kitchen with Island Designs to Inspire Your Home Today

There are tons of ways you can decorate a galley kitchen with an island to create stylish yet functional cookery at home.

Even if you have limited space, we have some fun ways to elevate your interior.

A galley kitchen simply refers to the layout that resembles kitchens on a ship or boat. The typical galley kitchen is nestled between two parallel walls or cabinet structures with cabinetry, countertops, and appliances in straight lines.

Meanwhile, adding an island is perfect for increasing counter space, which can be important if you have a smaller kitchen. It also provides more storage for your tools and utensils and offers more seating options with stools.

Islands are also great to define the space in an open concept home, as it creates separation between different functions in your house. So, let’s look at some of the best galley kitchen designs that feature an island!

1. This Galley Kitchen with an Island Combines White Heron OC-57 by Benjamin Moore and White Oak Wood Flooring for a Farmhouse Vibe

This first example shows a bright and stunning galley kitchen with some farmhouse elements. The island offers additional counter space and a second sink, while the galley layout helps create a cozy environment.

The walls here use White Heron OC-57 by Benjamin Moore, a basic white color that provides a clean and crisp foundation for your kitchen.

You can then step up the details, such as the cabinet color, which is Devoe Paints’ ICI A 1929 Pepper Tree.

This is a very muted and calm color that still gives the interior a nice pop and brightness. It will look even more charming when paired with the medium-toned wood countertop and stainless-steel appliances.

The faucet used here is by Kraus, which is the Single Handle Pullout Spray Kitchen Faucet (KPF-2220). Whereas the sink is the Kohler Vault, a farmhouse model with a metallic twist!

Moreover, the floors are original white oak wood, which is a very hardy species that will last you a long while. Even with daily use, the flooring will remain intact and undented.

The natural shade looks especially suitable for the farmhouse vibe.

2. Use Exposed Wooden Beams in a Galley Kitchen with an Island to Add Dramatic Architectural Intrigue

In the following example, you will see how using your house’s natural architecture can pay off as it creates a dramatic appeal and interest.

For instance, the exposed wooden beams on the ceiling of this galley kitchen create a rustic ambiance while also matching the wood flooring. These also contrast the white walls and cabinet beautifully.

Using a galley kitchen layout is also great in an open concept kitchen and living area, as this minimizes the amount of room needed without restricting the cooking space.

One idea is to turn the large island into an eat-in spot.

Simply place some bar stools, and you have a casual dining area for when you’re only eating alone or with two other people. Meanwhile, the formal dining table sits just a few feet away!

3. This Open-concept Galley Kitchen with an Island Mixes Exposed Brick and Wood for a Charming Farmhouse Style

One of the best things about having a farmhouse-style interior is the effect of coziness and warmth that you get. And that is no exception here!

You can mix natural materials like exposed brick and wood and juxtapose them with glossy surfaces. This is a foolproof way to create intrigue and elevate your galley kitchen.

You’ll also see some metal elements, such as the Falcon FHDSE Chimney Hood.

The dark blue cabinets look stunning with the white countertops and stainless-steel stovetop. It’s able to encapsulate the modern yet timeless style with the exposed brick accent wall and white ceiling.

This kitchen also features a spacious island with built-in shelves, which offers the perfect place for storing cookbooks and other utensils.

Finally, the floor here is wood in a gorgeous Herringbone pattern from Cheville Flooring in Fulham, London.

If you want to introduce some more colors, you can place yellow-framed bar stools and live indoor plants.

4. Create a Contemporary Galley Kitchen with a Large, Unique Island and Modern Track Lighting

It’s time to look at a more contemporary and modern design. This galley kitchen incorporates a stunning island with an asymmetrical silhouette and combination of materials.

Here, you can see how the island serves as more than an eat-in bar and extra countertop space. It is also an important focal point that the rest of the galley kitchen is built around.

Another unique feature is the modern track lighting, which is in a black color that stands out from the white ceiling. However, they are still narrow and small enough, so they don’t detract from the overall interior.

The flooring here is American Oak with a clear coat finish. It gives the surface a beautiful gloss and sheen, enhancing the space. Meanwhile, the walls are painted in Whisper White from Dulux, a classic choice for a modern home!

5. Utilize Reclaimed Wood and Different Materials for Your Galley Kitchen with an Island to Evoke Industrial Charm

Another neat interior trick is to use reclaimed wood as part of your design and incorporate a variety of other materials. This will help establish a nice industrial vibe, which often makes for a more comfortable mood at home.

To start with, the reclaimed wood has been transformed into a sleek and rustic cabinetry unit, as well as for the 16 ft conversational island and tabletop that extends for it.

Using plumbing pipes as the table legs add even more interest and style.

The island obviously comprises a huge part of the interior, whereas installing a tile backsplash from Walker Zanger in autumn brown makes it even more eclectic.

In terms of the layout, this galley kitchen feels very cozy and spacious at the same time. This is always a huge plus, especially if you’re going for an open concept floor plan with the dining area.

6. Install Classic Farmhouse Cabinets in a Galley Kitchen with Island and Reclaimed Wood Flooring

One of the most classic interior styles you can go for is the farmhouse, especially when it comes to the kitchen. This eat-in kitchen includes both a dining table set and stools on the island.

The island cabinets are stained in ‘Smoke’, which is a beautiful and texture grey color that will look right at home with the reclaimed wood flooring.

Overall, this rustic vibe works well with the farmhouse style of this space.

We also love the intricate pendant lights lined up above the island as they add a touch of traditional charm and a Victorian vibe.

Furthermore, the galley kitchen layout gives you plenty of space to move around, which can make preparing large amounts of food much easier and faster.

7. A Granite Backsplash and a Glass Chandelier Can Transform Your Galley Kitchen with an Island into an Elegant Space

This is an inspiration for a modern galley kitchen remodel that you can try out. It features dark wood flat-panel cabinets, stainless steel appliances, glass countertops, and a brown stone backsplash.

Another striking feature is the tall island and bar, which can be great if you like hosting parties and having friends over.

This glowing glass countertop adds a modern and jazzy vibe to the entire space.

You can also ensure that your galley kitchen doesn’t feel small by incorporating tall ceilings and built-in appliances, including the microwave and oven.

Not to mention the glass chandelier, which adds a lot of intrigues!

8. This Bright Farmhouse Galley Kitchen with an Island Features Linen Pendants for a Homey Feel

Up for a simple and homey galley kitchen that feels bright, clean, and spacious. You might love the photo above!

The designer has chosen to use Benjamin Moore’s Mayonnaise for the walls, ceiling, cabinets, and even bar stools here.

This single color is perfect for establishing a bright ambiance, and having skylights can also help maximize the natural light here.

Of course, the island is also a huge part of this galley kitchen. It provides a comfy spot for eating right after you finish cooking.

We love that the floors use antique reclaimed heart pine from Longleaf Lumber in Cambridge, MA. These are then finished in matte Bona Kemi Traffic for a durable and elegant coating.

The wood color and texture add warmth to this otherwise all-white space.

Lastly, one of the more unique details about this kitchen is the linen pendants. They are custom-made lights designed to match the calm and relaxing mood of the interior.

9. Paint Your Galley Kitchen with an Island in Pewter by Benjamin Moore and White for a Timeless Interior Style

The first thing you may notice about the following example is that it features a lot of greys! This is Pewter by Benjamin Moore, a medium gray shade that provides an elemental anchor to your home.

We love that it is neither too light nor dark, therefore ensuring an ideal canvas for you to play with! One way to complement these grey walls is with white inset cabinets and a marble top island, which creates a simple and timeless look.

The island here doesn’t have any bar stools, so it mainly serves as storage and counter space. But you can see that there is a dining table right next to the kitchen so that it’s still an eat-in kitchen!

Meanwhile, the galley layout means that one length of the wall is lined with cabinetry and the stovetop. This narrow shape is excellent for keeping the rest of the floor empty so that it feels larger.

10. This Grand Galley Kitchen Features a Spacious Island and Dining Table for a Cozy Yet Luxurious Ambiance

This galley kitchen has an extremely grand and lavish interior, which may inspire those of you who like more opulent and ritzy designs.

It is an eat-in galley kitchen with a beautiful dark wood floor that complements the white raised-panel cabinets, brown tile backsplash, and granite countertops.

We also love how the simple but charming light pendants add a cozy ambiance.

There is also a large island with multicolored countertops, complete with lots of drawers and storage space that will ensure the kitchen remains clutter-free.

This stunning kitchen faces a small informal dining table where the family can sit down together.

11. Go for a Modern Farmhouse Vibe in a Galley Kitchen with Sherwin Williams’ Waterloo Island and Wooden Bar Stools

This farmhouse galley kitchen offers a very simple and minimalist approach, where placing wooden accents and details like the fruit bowl can also enhance the style.

Here, you can use Sherwin Williams Waterloo for the island as it adds some color without being too flashy.

Installing a white countertop will provide a stark and striking contrast that matches the overall bright mood.

The wooden bar stools with metal frames also look especially great, as it matches the wood flooring.

You may also notice the metal light fixtures above the island, which add so much character! And yet, its hollow frame also means the interior still feels large and spacious.

12. Hang a Colorful Floral Chandelier in Your Eat-In Galley Kitchen with an Island for a Fun and Eye-Catching Feature

Next, we have a contemporary galley kitchen with countertops and cabinets lining both walls, as well as a small island serving extra storage and working space.

You may notice the colorful chandelier in a floral pattern, which, although small, is a stunning feature that will catch your attention. These provide soft and warm lighting while also adding some pops of colors.

It’s actually a colored plastic model from Richmond Lighting in Melbourne.

Another unique feature is the built-in benches and table in the window alcove. This can work especially well if your kitchen faces a garden or other natural landscapes so that you can dine while enjoying the view.

13. Evoke a Sophisticated and Comfortable Mood for a Galley Kitchen with an Oak Island and Tile Backsplash

For the following example, check out this sophisticated galley kitchen that is super trendy. It features an oak wood island, tile backsplash, and many modern appliances.

The island is built by The Maker & Solid Surfaces, whereas the backing is Polytec EVOLUTION Ravine Sepia Oak with horizontal grain.

We love how the natural wood textures are contrasted with glossy countertops and shiny tiles. This includes the contemporary bar stools with their fluid shape and simple structure!

Moreover, the galley kitchen also uses a polished tile backsplash from Tiles Expo.

The black color is an excellent complement to the wood-colored and white cabinets, as these create a harmonious combination of neutral and versatile shades for a refined finish.

14. Use River White Granite Countertops to Make a Galley Kitchen with a Curving Island Look More Elegant

Rectangular and square islands are everywhere, but have you considered a curved kitchen island like this?

It’s a great way to jazz up your galley kitchen and add an exciting and eye-catching feature.

The curves and arches make your space feel more elegant, while the countertops here use River White granite. You may want to add some personalized details like flowers or other decorations to make this kitchen feel like your own.

In terms of the cabinets, they have been painted in Farrow & Ball’s Oxford Stone 264.

This timeless dark taupe takes its inspiration from the cottages of Cotswold villages in Oxfordshire, so you can immediately evoke a charming pastoral vibe in your home!

15. This Galley Kitchen with an Island Features a Grey Subway Tile Backsplash and Sliding Doors to Blend the Indoors and Outdoors

Finally, an idea to make your galley kitchen feel like the ultimate contemporary oasis is to seamlessly connect it with the outdoors! You can do this with sliding doors made almost entirely out of glass.

Not only does this allow you to maximize natural light and fresh air, but hosting outdoor parties and gatherings will also never be easier. Don’t forget to place some outdoor seating out on the deck.

Back in the kitchen, a double farmhouse sink on the island will make it so much easier to clean up after cooking. We also adore how the wood countertops look against the grey subway tile backsplash and white floors.

You can hang some grey pendant lights above the island for the lighting. There is also a skylight above the alley space of this galley kitchen, which ensures even more natural light.

Closing

At the end of the day, there is no one right or wrong way to style a kitchen. This is a private space where you can cook food for the entire family or simply hang out with friends and loved ones.

As such, even a galley kitchen can provide so much warmth and character if you decorate it right.

Adding an island is one way to elevate the area, but don’t forget to incorporate elements that resonate with your own personality.

You might even want to combine ideas from several examples and develop your ideal design.

Why not explore out of your usual style too?