A galley kitchen, one with two parallel counters, is a classic design that has survived for decades. While it’s often the most efficient setup for a kitchen with limited square footage, it works just as well with some additional space, too.

We’ve combed through Instagram to find our top 15 eye-catching galley kitchens, each bursting with great ideas to steal for your own home.

Wall of Windows

It might be worth it to forego some cabinet space if you’re able to create a similar wall of windows in your own kitchen. In this example, the homeowners made up for the loss of storage by taking the cabinets all the way up the ceiling on the opposite wall.

Undercover Cabinets

In this sleek galley kitchen, the cabinets almost fade into the background. Without any cabinet hardware, you can recreate a similar look in your own space. The beautiful skylight and bright, white color makes this space feel much larger.

Unexpected Color

This light teal color is not one you often find in a kitchen, but in this gorgeous example, it really helps the smaller space stand out. Using a narrow console table and stools as a breakfast bar is a genius solution for a more narrow kitchen. The art and rug instantly help the space feel more cozy.

Go for the Gold

If you want to "up" the glam factor in your galley kitchen, consider using hammered gold cabinets like they did in this space. While it makes a bold statement, it could work really well in an especially tight space. Also notice how the rest of the space is simple and neutral to offset the bold gold color.

Simple + Gray

Using all one color is another great approach. Even the countertop choice echoes the gray tonal color of the walls. The single color helps the kitchen feel very pulled together.

Shiplap

Shiplap is a material that often shows up in barns or older homes, but it’s also a great choice to use in a smaller galley kitchen. You can choose to use shiplap on just the walls or take it all the way up to the ceiling as they did here.

Bold Tile

Using a colorful or bold pattern tile on your floor is a great way to add some visual interest. If you have a limited amount of floor space, it’s an especially fun spot to experiment with. You might also be able to splurge a bit more on tile if you’re covering a smaller number of square feet.

Wide Open Spaces

While we typically think of galley kitchens as a choice for smaller homes or tight spaces, the design is so functional it’s often chosen for homes with larger spaces as well. In this example, the galley kitchen is huge with a large open space between the two parallel counters. They even managed to fit in a wood burning fireplace!

Chevron Floor

If you’re gun shy about using a bold tile but would still like to make a statement with the floor in your kitchen, consider using more traditional wood flooring but laying it in an unusual pattern. This chevron patterned floor veers from the typical vertical plank pattern used with wood flooring, so it’s a great way to make your space stand out.

Built-In Shelving

In this tight space, the homeowners make excellent use of the opposite wall with a custom shelving solution that works perfectly with their space and provides a ton of extra storage.

Two-Tone

There’s no rule that says that you have to use the same color for each side of your kitchen. In this example, the homeowners have created some additional visual interest by using a darker color on one side of their space. By choosing a color in the same tonal family, you can keep your space looking cohesive.

Extra-Tall Windows

If you’re lucky enough to have high ceilings, think about adding an extra tall window to your galley kitchen. In this example, the window height brings extra light into the small space, making it feel open and spacious.

Dark Cabinets + Graphic Flooring

If traditional, white kitchens feel a bit “been there, done that” to you, it might be time to go dark. In this kitchen, the navy cabinets and black-and-white, graphic floor are a fun surprise. The white backsplash, countertops and banquette balance the dark colors perfectly.

Light Wood

Another unexpected choice for a galley kitchen is to use woods that are lighter in color. In this example, the floor is a light, pickled-white hue and is paired with light wood cabinetry. The lighter woods pair well with the black accents of the space, including the windows.

Vintage Rug

This stunning vintage rug works perfectly in this bright, white kitchen. Using a traditional, non-kitchen rug is one of my favorite ways to bring some personality and uniqueness to a space. For tighter spaces, runners are a perfect choice.