A narrowboat galley is as minimalist as one can get.
However, this small space works for me, forcing me to keep only the essentials for daily usage.
Being organised, practical, and making little tweaks daily helps to mitigate potential challenges and awkwardness, and to achieve a user-friendly, safe, and efficient environment.
Limited storage on board.
To organise the drawer, I've used plastic storage trays, which add compartments, to make items such as spices, condiments, and other goods more accessible and easier to find.
Additional Cupboard Space
This limited storage space requires us to stick to having essential items, and it helps to curb and dictate our shopping habits.
A single shelf for crockery.
I am not keen on accumulating plates, chinaware, and utensils for show and believe in only keeping what is used regularly. So, some of what you see here is an excess supply of what was gifted to me, which will be dropped off at a charity shop at some point.
Prepping and workspace
Working in a new kitchen takes some getting used to, regardless of the size or whether it's on a narrowboat or a conventional house. However, having lived on both, I can say that it takes more coordination and mental planning in terms of the order in which one works.
Here, the prep and workspace are on an adjustable and extended countertop.
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This folding plank is ace— practical, essential, space-efficient, and easy to clean.
However, it helps if you're organised to avoid needing to lift it while chopping vegetables and prepping in general.
Hanging Spaces
With the small space on a narrowboat, it's unrealistic, impossible, and cumbersome with excessive furnishings. Therefore, hanging space becomes essential.
Simple, inexpensive hooks that can be found in any hardware shop are ideal for use on wood.
I have taken an unconventional approach, and I changed the existing coat rack for pots and pans. This looks practical; pots are easily accessible and secured; and most importantly, they save space. Hanging items against a wall is great as it prevents the items from banging, especially while cruising or sleeping.
Hanging mugs save on space and are aesthetically appealing.
I was left with nowhere to place my eggs, which are guaranteed to keep them visible without cracking them by error, so I hung this metal basket. This way, the eggs and onions on the other side are secured and within reach, as I use both daily.
Hanging cooking utensils makes it easy to grab them while cooking and it eliminates the need to store them on the countertop, or in a drawer, which is not on the boat.
Coffee and tea station
I like the idea of having a designated coffee and tea area, and this one is a work in progress.
Continuing with the hanging of items, I recently found this coat hanger in a shop for only a pound, and I bought it to temporarily hang my coffee paraphernalia.
Having a separate coffee station makes it easier when cooking, especially since one could easily prepare a quick brew without interrupting the cook in the kitchen.
I am in the process of re-installing the shelf below, which will be convenient for canisters as well as a holder for coffee and other beverages while seated there.
Simplicity does it just as well.
Living simply does not have to be frugal or tasteless. Finding stylish, creative, and practical solutions to living in a minimalist space is achievable.
Here's a simple yet complete meal of peppered steak served with red wine, all cooked in my tiny kitchen.
Albeit, it's been one month that I've been aboard this narrowboat, and I do like changes, and if something proves to be a bad idea, then I rectify it accordingly.
As you may have noticed, there are no electrical appliances such as a microwave, toaster, blender, electric kettle, etc., which are all deliberate, as a narrowboat lifestyle is off-the-grid and solar-powered.
Cheers to a lovely weekend!
All images were captured with my mobile phone.