What's the best layout for a narrow galley kitchen in an older Fredericton home?

Galley kitchens in older Fredericton homes can be incredibly functional when designed thoughtfully — the key is maximizing your limited width while creating an efficient work triangle between sink, stove, and refrigerator.

For a typical 8-10 foot wide galley in a 1920s-1940s Fredericton home, consider placing your sink on one wall with the dishwasher adjacent, then positioning the range on the opposite wall with the refrigerator at one end. This creates a compact triangle that minimizes steps during meal prep. If you have a window (common in these older homes), definitely keep the sink there — natural light makes food prep much more pleasant and helps the space feel larger.

Storage becomes critical in narrow spaces. Floor-to-ceiling cabinets on both walls maximize storage without eating into your walking space. Pull-out drawers in lower cabinets work better than traditional shelves since you won't be reaching deep into corners. Consider a pantry cabinet at one end if space allows — many Fredericton homes from this era lack adequate pantry space.

The 4-foot minimum walkway between counters is essential for two people to pass comfortably, though you can go as narrow as 3.5 feet in a pinch. Light-colored cabinets and countertops will help reflect light and make the space feel more open. Under-cabinet LED lighting eliminates shadows on work surfaces.

Electrical upgrades are often necessary in these older homes — many still have the original 60-amp service and limited kitchen outlets. You'll need a licensed electrician (TIS-licensed) and an NB Power wiring permit for any electrical work. Plan for at least two 20-amp circuits dedicated to the kitchen, plus GFCI outlets near the sink.

If you're removing walls to open up the space, you'll need a building permit from the City of Fredericton (506-460-2020) and likely an engineer's assessment to ensure you're not affecting structural elements. Many of these homes have load-bearing walls that can't be removed without proper reinforcement.

Start by measuring your exact dimensions and sketching different layouts. Consider hiring a kitchen designer familiar with older home challenges — they'll help you work around quirks like sloped floors, uneven walls, and existing plumbing locations that are expensive to relocate.