The article reflects on the author’s experience of living with a compact galley kitchen and how, over time, it has become a space she genuinely appreciates rather than resents. Measuring less than three metres long, the kitchen is designed around a natural ‘work triangle’ between the fridge, sink and stove, making cooking efficient and movement minimal. Instead of viewing the limited space as a drawback, she highlights how it encourages better habits, such as cleaning as she cooks, putting ingredients away immediately, and maintaining a more organised, clutter-free environment. The author also notes that small kitchens are easier to maintain and clean, reducing both effort and time spent on household chores. While larger kitchens in holiday homes or other people’s houses may seem appealing at first, she often finds them less practical due to the increased distance between work areas and the inefficiency of movement during meal preparation. Over the years, she and her husband have made thoughtful, cost-effective upgrades, including reclaimed timber flooring painted in a checkerboard pattern and marble benchtops that have developed a patina over time. These improvements demonstrate how smaller spaces can be personalised without requiring large renovation budgets. Storage limitations have also encouraged creativity and discipline, with only essential items kept and excess belongings regularly removed. Additional kitchen items are stored elsewhere in the home when needed. Decorative yet functional storage solutions, such as antique crockery, wall-mounted knife holders, and vintage bowls, help maximise space while maintaining aesthetic appeal. Finally, the author suggests that a small kitchen can even be socially advantageous, with guests naturally gathering in the space and a relaxed atmosphere during entertaining. It also provides a convenient excuse to avoid unwanted kitchen gifts or inherited items, reinforcing the idea that constraints can lead to simplicity, efficiency and satisfaction.