The island, an incredible piece of furniture
When we’re first meeting with clients for an initial consultation about a kitchen remodel, one of the most common things we hear is: “we really would love to have an island” Not every kitchen can have an island and not every kitchen should.
Size will depend on several factors with the most important being your kitchen’s real estate. If you have a large kitchen you have the option to play around with a wide variety of sizes and designs. If your kitchen is smaller then you may consider a peninsula a more compact island.
This being said, standard recommendations for an island work area are leaving at least 36 inches on all sides of and island to accommodate traffic.
When two cooks will be working simultaneously 48-inch widths are preferred to ensure that traffic moves easily around kitchen so that people will still be able to move around the space without having to walk sideways.
*It is true that an island may take up more space in your kitchen, but you can maximize the space to your advantage.
Customizable storage
The main benefit of a kitchen island is the additional countertop space for prepping and staging meals.
The island is a multifunctional element and it serves as a practical storage piece with options for deep drawers, cabinets, open shelving for books, baskets, wine holders, and even an opportunity for dishwasher or small appliances such as a beverage fridge or microwave to free up the space in your perimeter cabinets.
* An island is a great place to hide away your trash and recyclables, so they are not out in the open in your kitchen.
* A designated spot for your best friend…. A doggy or cat station!
The hub of the kitchen
For the homeowner who likes to cook for groups of family and friends and island is a great gathering space!
Islands offer a great location for a main sink or prep sink to add extra countertop space on the perimeter.
An island creates a defined space in an open concept kitchen, the island work area allows you to face quests or family members while prepping meals or entertaining especially if your home as an open floor plan.
Seating
An essential element of kitchen island is seating. One thing to consider is how your family lives in the kitchen. Is your kitchen the place where everyone does homework, pay bills and hang out? If so, then you may want more seating at your kitchen island.
The addition of seating at the island can make a great space for your quests and family to gather, talk, eat and relax while you are cooking.
Consider the available seating options for kitchen islands
You will need to plan for more space if you want seating for your kitchen island. Choose seats that suit the island’s height and that allow at least 12 inches of clear knee space. Bar stools fit underneath 42- to 46-inch-high breakfast bars. Counter stools work with standard 36” inch high island tops. Low stools and chairs tuck beneath tabletop height counters (30” inches)
Seating for kitchen islands can be either stools or chairs. Stools are great space-savers, especially in kitchens where space is at a premium; they can be tucked under countertops to preserve precious walkway.
Designer tips
To create an illusion of an airy space, choose light colours on the surrounding cabinets and countertops. The room will feel larger and organized.
In some kitchen designs the entire kitchen island is a different colour, stain vs. paint, shape or design then the rest of the kitchen cabinets and countertops. This allows the kitchen island to become an accent piece in the room.
An island should integrate seamlessly into your kitchen design and should never feel out of place or crowded. To get the results you will be happy with for years, ensure you get help of a professional designer. Come visit us at 110 Kendall St.
The largest Cabinet manufacturer in all of Pt. Edward!
