In the heart of the home lies the most important room—the kitchen. Whether you’re a self-proclaimed chef or a budding baker, the value of a well-designed kitchen is obvious. However, this is one space that is notoriously difficult to design. To make things easier for you, we’ve created  an extensive inspiration guide, starting with one of the most efficient layouts— the parallel kitchen. Come, take a look at the best parallel modular kitchen designs for home.

What Is a Parallel Kitchen?

Also known as a galley kitchen, parallel kitchen designs are perfect for compact homes or for one-cook kitchens. With aesthetics similar to an alleyway, you have the chance to pack it with storage on both walls.

A parallel or galley kitchen is a classic layout with a narrow space that comprises two walls with a passageway between them. Packed with base and wall cabinets on either side, it is an easy layout to design as there is no need to worry about fitting cabinets in corners.

Why Should You Choose a Parallel Kitchen?

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A dash of the royal blue can make things regal quick enough

Be it ergonomics, layout or appliances, parallel kitchen ideas are superior for many reasons. Here’s why you should opt for a parallel kitchen interior:

  • In most cases, parallel kitchen design ideas take up less floor space and work well for compact homes
  • Lesser materials are used on the countertops and cabinets, thereby cutting down the overall design cost
  • A parallel kitchen interior is ideal for homes with one cook and lesser footfall
  • It helps keep the design simple as it is easy to stick to the basics. It has limited design scope for a breakfast counter or kitchen island

Things to Keep in Mind About a Galley Kitchen

  • Maximise storage by adding wall and base cabinets on either side
  • Maintain equal distance among the elements that make up the kitchen golden triangle
  • Keep the sink and hob on the same side
  • Position the fridge on the opposite side, preferably between the line of the sink and hob

Pros and Cons of Parallel Modular Kitchen Designs

ProsCons
They take up less floor spaceParallel kitchens are usually very narrow
They are cost-effectiveNot ideal when there are multiple cooks
Provides plenty of workspaceThey provide limited storage

Here are a few Livspace parallel kitchen designs for inspiration.

#1: A Sleek Parallel Kitchen With a Pop of Colour

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Elegance and luxe, two in one

A glimpse of grandeur is what this modern parallel kitchen design is all about. The sleek storage allows easy movement with floor space to spare. This is great for big families, as it can support movement and multiple cooks at one time. We love the high glossy finish. It’s remarkable, don’t you think?

#2: Add an Island to the Parallel Modular Kitchen

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A parallel kitchen that’s perfect for working couples

This is one of the best small parallel modular kitchen designs that helps create a spacious look to the peninsula layout. The prep counter and the smart breakfast counter are perfect for working couples that can help you multitask in more ways than one!

#3: A Small Space Parallel Kitchen Design

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A galley kitchen with a gold finish

Although the layout seems compact, the storage capacity is better than a normal kitchen. That’s one advantage of small space parallel kitchen designs. Also, take a look at the tall units that house all necessary appliances. The LED strips below the counters add a touch of visual dimension to the space.

#4: Parallel Kitchen Interior With a Multi-Purpose Layout

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Extra room to work in this beautiful olive parallel kitchen

With a soothing yet stark contrast of colours and a mix of open and closed cabinets, this parallel kitchen interior design is brilliance in a byte. Take a look at the efficient layout as well, which has ample prep counter space for a big family. Hosting parties becomes a lot easier when the kitchen is this spacious.

#5: Opt for a Scandinavian Kitchen Design

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Rooted in minimalist design and full of surprises

When you don’t want to opt for a plain look, go Scandinavian! Scandinavian kitchen designs rely on the use of white or neutrals, simple lines with pops of wood to add contrast and warmth to this parallel kitchen design. The modern counter stools further add a Scandi edge to the parallel kitchen interiors. Wonderful, isn’t it?

#6: Galley Kitchen Design in Vastu-Approved Colours

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Add the brightest hues to your kitchen space

A pop of yellow is certain to brighten your day! Easy to cook in and grab some food when you’re on the go, this parallel shaped kitchen is ideal for working couples and young chefs. Moreover, it’s vastu-approved. Take a look at a few other vastu-approved kitchen colours.

#7: A Modern Parallel Kitchen Design for Multiple Cooks

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With a perfect mix of open and closed cabinets for convenience

Got a big family? This relatively spacious modern parallel kitchen design can accommodate your members with ease and allow minimum disruption to work. The work triangle gives you perfect movement and access, especially when you’re in a hurry.

#8: A Parallel Kitchen Interior With Maximum Storage

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Perfect for small, modern families

Not enough storage in the kitchen? Then a parallel kitchen with a mix of open and closed cabinets works best for you. An added bonus is the lofts that increase the utility of the kitchen.

#9: A Low-Maintenance Parallel Modular Kitchen

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Perfect for small families that love a clean space

For the busy couples out there who feel maintenance is a task, this kitchen is a perfect fit. The glossy shutters, countertops and backsplash are easy to clean with their smooth surfaces.

#10: An Elegant Livspace Parallel Kitchen

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Sleek, for a modern look

A flawless solution for a rectangular layout is this parallel kitchen. Sleek storage, neutral colours and glossy finishes make it appear bright and spacious. You’ll be surprised how easy it is to achieve effortless elegance.

#11: Seamless and Handleless Look

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The best parallel kitchens often come with a handleless look

A handleless finish for a seamless look is matched with elegant blue tones for those who love offbeat styles. Pick a mix of open, closed and frosted-glass or plain-glass shutters for a balanced look. The best parallel kitchens give your home an edge that’s unparalleled.

#12: A Classy Parallel Kitchen

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Pristine white for elegance and class

Finally, white kitchens are getting their well-deserved popularity. After letting go of the myth that they are hard to maintain, these homeowners opted for an efficient and bright kitchen. This home was designed by Livspace for a pilot couple!

#13: Parallel Kitchen Ideas Decked in Wooden Finishes

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Warm, wooden vibes

Bring in classic notes with wooden finishes, but choose to contrast it with a light patterned backsplash. The glass door lets in ample light so that the kitchen appears bright. If you’d like your entire home is dipped in warm browns and beiges, check this home for inspiration.

#14: Parallel Kitchen Design Ideas in Bright Colours

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All things bright and beautiful!

This yellow kitchen with a Moroccan backsplash has a quirky look that is accentuated with a classy granite countertop. Dedicated zones for appliances make cooking a smooth process. A mix of open and closed shelves make the space convenient. The membrane finish looks great on the kitchen cabinets.

#15: A Monochrome Themed Galley Kitchen

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The cabinets come with a soft close mechanism

Talk about colour-coding! This monochromatic parallel kitchen is a balance of utility and aesthetics. Handleless cabinets with a soft-close mechanism, frosted-glass shutters along with built-in appliances are bound to encourage your culinary skills. Check out this home for a Moroccan-inspired theme.

#16: Best Parallel Kitchen That’s Dual-Toned

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For a glamour-packed cooking shesh

Ever wanted a glamorous cooking session? A pop of cherry red, black countertops and elegant in the backsplash, this classy parallel kitchen is stunning. Pull-outs, tandem drawers, cutlery units and open shelves ease storage needs and make for the best parallel kitchen design you’ll find in modern homes.

Take a look at this video for more inspiration:

Love these kitchens? Then also take a look at the Pretty, Plush and Practical: L-Shaped Kitchen Designs

How Can Livspace Help You?

We hope you found our ideas useful! If you want a beautiful and well-designed home, then look no further. Book an online consultation with Livspace today.

Wondering how our customers feel about working with Livspace? You can check out the Livspace kitchen reviews here!

***Colours and finishes are subject to availability. Please check with your nearest Livspace store to check availability.

Write to us at editor@livspace.com