The Kitchen Island
Kitchen Island Design Ideas
Everyone loves the idea of having a kitchen island. They can provide additional storage space, prep area, and seating. With a million different island designs out there, how do you know what will work best for you? Here is a list of things to consider if you are looking to incorporate an island into your kitchen.
The first thing you need to consider is how much space do you have? The best way to determine this is to cut out cardboard, or tape off a section of your space approximately the size and shape of the island you are thinking of. Walk around it. Move from the sink to the refrigerator, from the sink to the cooking area. Is the island in the way? If there is more than one person working in the kitchen, is there enough space for both of you? The recommendation is to have a 36-42” minimum walkway around the island. However, keep in mind that what works on paper, does not always work for your specific needs. So try it out. Make sure you are comfortable in the space.
Next, decide what are you looking for the island to do? Do you need more prep space? In that case, you may want an island that is large and all one level, with no interruptions, like a sink or cooktop in it. Do you want additional seating or a place for people to gather? Ideally, your countertop should overhang your cabinets by 12”. Do you need extra storage? Make sure you think about what you are going to store there. This can help determine the size and type of cabinets that go in the island.
Now that you know what the function of the island is, you need to decide on the look. A two-tiered island can provide seating while keeping guests away from your food prep, and create a visual barrier between the “mess” of food prep, and other areas of your living space. An Island with decorative panels and decorative base molding, done in a different color than the main kitchen, can have the look of a furniture piece.
Planning these details ahead of time can help make sure that your island is beautiful and functional. Get more tips from kitchen and bath remodeling experts at Remodeling Expo.
