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An Incremental Galley Kitchen

July 29, 2024

This compact kitchen design presented by Aadhana Srinidhi, Architect, Chiraag Kapoor Architects, Chennai was the joint 3rd Prize winner at the Hettich presents Kitchen Ideas Design Challenge 2023-2024.


This design approach aims to make the kitchen adaptable to the indoor environment in manageable steps, according to the changing needs of the user. “While the fixed side houses the non-compromising elements of the kitchen, the adaptable side acts as an important design aspect of resilience and flexibility. Integrated sections are designed to accommodate different tasks. By adding suitable functions to the necessities in each iteration, the kitchen maximises its efficiency, whether it is in use or not,” explains Aadhana Srinidhi, Architect, Chiraag Kapoor Architects.

Aadhana Srinidhi, Architect, Chiraag Kapoor Architects, Chennai presenting her design at the Grand Finale of Hettich presents Kitchen Ideas Design Challenge held at JW Marriott, Juhu, Mumbai.

She further adds that by adding associated functions through iterative design, the kitchen evolves to meet the demands of a multi-use space, providing a versatile layout and increasing efficiency for various changing activities. “Together, it follows a cohesive design. Because of these scalable inserts, in both the fixed as well as the movable edges, the user is not forced to follow a particular layout like U-shape, L-shape or an Island Kitchen.”

Design Features


· The kitchen is a prototype of 90 sq. ft. when open and when it’s closed or not in use, it gives an incremental space of 36 sq. ft. in an open floor plan.

· The fixed edge houses all the quintessential parts of the kitchen like the sink, cooktop, built-in chimney, refrigerator, microwave oven, OTG etc.

·  The designer has incorporated scable inserts in the fixed as well as the movable sections. A pull-out insert that also acts as a preparation counter has been added.

· For the movable section, the sliding track has been given from the floor as well as the ceiling. And, a wire manager track has been inserted from the loft and the ceiling so that power points and the other appliances function properly.

· The movable section is segregated into three tiers – storage for accessories and cutlery, preparation counter and beverage appliances with two-way access.