Removing Wall for Galley Kitchen Remodel

Many older homes have galley kitchen layouts which feature narrow spaces between parallel sets of cabinets and countertops. While galley kitchens maximize storage, the confined quarters can make cooking, cleaning, and hosting guests challenging.

However, removing walls opens up galley kitchens and allows for a more functional layout. Transforming a cramped galley into an open concept kitchen creates space for multiple cooks, improves sightlines, and enables easier hosting.

Defining a Galley Kitchen Layout

Galley kitchen layouts consist of cabinets and countertops lining each wall, usually with less than 4 feet between the counters. One entrance typically delineates the kitchen from adjoining rooms. Galley kitchens maximize storage with their floor-to-ceiling cabinets. Yet, the single pathway restricts traffic and hinders multiple cooks.

Common Galley Kitchen Layout Features

• Narrow walkways between 3-5 feet wide
• Counters and cabinets lining parallel walls
• One entry/exit access point
• Floor-to-ceiling cabinetry for ample storage
• Cramped work triangle restricting movement

While galley kitchens simplify cleaning with their confined footprint, the tight quarters limit remodeling options. However, removing walls can completely transform cramped galley kitchens into spacious, functional rooms.

Benefits of Removing Walls in a Galley Kitchen

Taking down walls in a galley kitchen remodel opens sightlines, eases traffic flow, and creates a flexible entertaining space. Benefits include:

Improves Natural Light

Removing walls adjoining dining rooms, living rooms, and outdoor areas enables sunlight to permeate previously enclosed galley kitchens. Open concepts create brighter, airier kitchens.

Expands Work Triangle

Widening passageways expands movement between sinks, stovetops, ovens, pantries and refrigerators. More generous work triangles allow for multiple cooks.

Enables Flexible Entertaining

An open kitchen with adjoining living areas accommodates guests more comfortably. Traffic flows smoothly from kitchen prep zones to dining spaces.

Modernizes Dated Kitchens

Opening up partitions transforms old-fashioned galleys into spacious showpieces overflowing with natural light. Contemporary conveniences replace cramped cookspaces.

Boosts Resale Value

Open concept kitchens attract homebuyers with their relaxed sightlines, flexibility and abundant natural light. Updated open kitchens boost resale appeal.

Key Considerations Before Removing Walls

While opening walls creates spacious kitchens, major structural renovations require significant financial investment. Consider key factors beforehand:

Structural Elements

Inspect walls carefully to determine if they are load-bearing or dividing existing rooms. Removing load-bearing walls requires installing temporary support beams.

Utilities

Electrical, plumbing, HVAC and internet lines run through walls. Verify their locations before knocking down partitions. Be prepared to reroute utilties.

Floorplan Changes

How will eliminating walls impact existing room configurations? Bedroom or dining room access points may change.

Costs

Knocking down walls and revamping kitchen layouts carries hefty price tags. Create reasonable budgets accounting for dumpster rentals, construction crews, materials and permits.

Preparing for a Galley Kitchen Remodel

Meticulous planning ensures galley kitchen remodels progress smoothly. Key preparation steps include:

Hire a Remodeling Contractor

Find qualified specialists experienced executing structural demolition. Meet with several contractors and evaluate referrals, reviews and references. Ensure liability insurance coverage protects from onsite injuries or property damage.

Develop a Reasonable Budget

Creating realistic budgets prevents cost overruns mid-project. Factor expenditures for structural engineering, construction crews, custom cabinetry, new appliances, countertops, flooring, lighting, paint and utilities. Expect costs between $30,000-75,000+.

Secure Required Permits

Local municipalities require permits when modifying home structures. Secure proper authorizations before demolition. Permits for revamping kitchen layouts often require professional drawings outlining intended renovations.

Finalize New Kitchen Layout

Decide where to eliminate walls and how to use the space. Consider an open concept blending kitchen and living spaces, a kitchen peninsula or kitchen island in place of removed walls.

Knocking Down Walls in Galley Kitchens

Safely removing walls requires strategic processes. Follow best practices to avoid injury or property damage.

Protect Surrounding Surfaces

Shield floors, ceilings, and remaining walls from debris during demolition. Plastic sheets contain dust while furniture pads prevent scratches.

Turn Off Electricity and Utilities

Prevent fires or electric shock by shutting off power via circuit breakers. Turn off water lines leading to kitchen faucets, sinks, and appliances as well.

Knock Down the Wall

Carefully dismantle wall segments using hammers, crowbars, reciprocating saws and sledgehammers. Wear protective eye, ear and breathing gear when tearing down partitions.

Dispose of Debris

Deposit wall fragments, supporting beams, insulation and wiring materials into rental dumpsters promptly. Quickly discard debris to maintain tidy work zones.

Designing a New Open Concept Kitchen

Reimagine cramped galleys by opening sightlines and introducing spacious layouts. Utilize design techniques enlarging rooms visually.

Include Peninsula or Kitchen Island

Peninsulas or kitchen islands placed where walls once stood anchor open floorplans. These fixtures corrall sinks, appliances and counter space while segmenting living areas.

Widen Passageways

Removing walls adjoining dining and living rooms expands doorways. Eliminate narrow galley-style walkways by opening passageways between rooms.

Accentuate Sightlines

Extend uniform cabinetry, tiles or backsplashes throughout kitchens and living rooms. Continuous design elements trick the eye, making divided rooms appear cohesive.

Mirror Walls and Ceilings

Glossy subway tiles or mirrored backsplashes impart depth while reflecting light. Metallic ceiling paint doubles perceived room dimensions.

Zone Spaces

Define kitchen, dining and living room areas within open concept interiors using area rugs, pendant lights or flooring materials. Clear transitions prevent excessive blending of family spaces.

Completing Your Galley Kitchen Remodel

Final appointment stages prepare revitalized kitchens for debuts. Complete checklists include:

Install Cabinetry and Countertops

Anchor open layouts by mounting custom cabinetry punctuated with smooth granite, quartz or marble countertops. Clean lines and neutral hues enlarge rooms.

Add Finishing Touches

Adhere tile backsplashes, integrate lighting schemes and mount decorative range hoods over stovetops. Accessorize with greenery, window treatments and accent lighting.

Install Flooring

Durable vinyl plank, hardwood or porcelain tiles withstand high traffic once cabinetry and paint dry. Waterproof flooring materials simplify cleanup following cooking mishaps.

Eliminate construction debris using vacuums, mops and cleaning solutions. Transfer dishes and small appliances into cabinets and drawers to put finishing gloss on your gorgeous galley transformation!