A galley can be extremely efficient when the aisle is not treated as a hallway and opposing doors do not block one another.
Decide whether it is one-cook or two-cook
A narrow galley may work beautifully for one cook but become frustrating when several people need the same aisle. Consider whether one side should hold tall storage and passive functions while the other holds active work.
Stagger major appliances
Avoid placing the dishwasher directly opposite the range or refrigerator where open doors close the aisle. Draw every door and handle depth.
Light both sides
Central ceiling light often leaves the cook’s body casting shadows on both counters. Add well-positioned task lighting and control glare from glossy finishes.
Open selectively
Removing a wall is not automatically the best solution. A pass-through, wider doorway or end opening may improve connection while preserving cabinet and sound separation. Structural assessment may be required.