When you close your eyes and picture your dream kitchen, we bet it features a kitchen island. The kitchen island is often the centerpiece of any modern kitchen. If you have space, the island can be one of the most functional and fabulous additions to any kitchen.
Designing an Island for Your Kitchen
Before you start designing the island itself, you need to make sure that you have the right amount of space in your kitchen. The island is supposed to improve the flow of the kitchen. But if you try to force an island in a too-small space, it’s only going to get in the way and make your kitchen cramped and oppressive. If you have space, the island can bring drama and function to your kitchen, adding more storage space and more counter space.
Measurements
To figure out if you have room for an island, you need to have an exact overview of your kitchen. For the island to be of any use, it should be at least 4 feet long and 2 feet deep. Anything less, and it’s going to be too small to serve any function. You also have to consider that you still want to have the traditional cabinets and storage along the walls, including kitchen appliances. Make sure you consider how much space this will take before you try to fit in an island.
Kitchen Island Function
If all you’re looking for is a bit of extra counter space, a small island may be quite sufficient. Many people have more ambitious goals for the kitchen island. The island is a great way to include a bit more storage space in the kitchen or even a casual seating area. If you use the island as a chopping and prepping station, you may want to include a sink and a trash receptacle. Figure out what functions you want the island to serve, and then make sure that you have space for an island big enough to fulfill each purpose.
Opening Doors and Drawers
One measurement that many forget to include is the space you’ll need to open cabinet doors, drawers, oven, refrigerator, and dishwashers. A common mistake is to design a kitchen that works when everything is closed, but when it comes to opening anything, you start banging into things. You also have to account for the space that you will need to move about in the kitchen while opening doors and drawers comfortably.
For more specific measurements and design ideas for your kitchen, including the iconic kitchen island, visit our kitchen showrooms and talk to a design expert.