Galley design & construction

[schaney]

Thought I would share a few practices I use when optimizing the kitchen / galley layout on an Explorer Box. Seems leverageable for designing a Teardrop galley or a Chuckbox.

When customizing a shelf layout, I start by getting everything together that will be packed in it. I look at what would go together on a shelf, needs a shelf of its own, and what could be grouped together in a drawer. I find that Sterlite plastic baskets work nicely as a drawers and are readily available at many stores.



I then use cardboard to mockup the layout and sizing. This is an easy, cost effective and quick way to test clearances and try out different ways to organize things.



Once I have a layout, I use a corner block building method to keep the weight down. It’s not as eloquent from a woodworking standpoint, but it provides for solid joints when using thinner plywood. Why use 5/8â€

[Woodbutcher]

Nicely done, great tips. Looks like a well made box!

[schaney]

Thanks Woodbutcher ... If saving weight is important, thinner material where possible and some plastic will sure help.

[JuneBug]

When customizing a shelf layout, I start by getting everything together that will be packed in it. I look at what would go together on a shelf, needs a shelf of its own, and what could be grouped together in a drawer.

What a great way to approach your galley organization! I like the mock-up approach as well.

It brings to mind a great book called "The Motion Minded Kitchen" by Sam Clarke that goes back to motion and kitchen efficiency studies back pre-1950s and earlier. Amazingly practical; could easily be applied to galley design. Likely out of print but currently available on Amazon for cheap.

I recall seeing the photos of someone who packs in plastic boxes in the kitchen, and then everything can be carried (already organized) directly to the TD/TTT when loading for the trip. Sounds like your approach would work this way as well. Reverse when you get home.

[JuneBug]

And one more thing. For those who are Splitters (not Lumpers), you could easily create baffles/dividers in the Sterilite containers using dowels. Just use the exiting holes or drill them out slightly to fit your dowel. Might help keep bottles up right, etc. Ahhhh, possibilities, possibilities.

[schaney]

Junebug, Thanks ... there are many other plastic baskets out there depending on your needs and some already have removable dividers.