Designing a Kitchen Island

Designing a kitchen layout is difficult. It's even more confusing when you add in a kitchen island. To help you figure out how to best implement a kitchen island into your design, ask yourself these following questions!

What is the island's function?

Are you going to be cooking on the island? Eating on it? Or will your main focus be on prep work, storage or entertaining? Will it be used as a catch-all for homework assignments, house projects and more?

If you want a sink and other appliances on your island, you will need a lot more space than if you're using the island solely for eating. If your focus is eating and entertaining, your priority should be on seating.

What appliances do you need in your kitchen island?

Plan for function and space. If you're going to have a sink on your island, you need to plan for a dishwasher. If you're planning on using the space for prep work, you'll need room for trash and compost areas.

The size of your kitchen matters too. If you have a large kitchen, you may want a smaller fridge on the island for easier access.

How much storage do you need?

If you have a lot of kitchen cabinetry, then this may not be a priority. But if you would like more space to store prep utensils or cutting boards, make sure to plan for that. The recommended size of an island is 3 feet wide and 7 feet long if you need to accommodate a sink, dishwasher or cooktop.

How will it fit into your kitchen layout?

The kitchen is the heart of the home. It's never static and as it accommodates so many activities, it needs to be cohesively designed. Make sure the island functions smoothly with the opposite kitchen counter. The recommended open floor area around the island should be about 3 feet to 5 feet.

That's all our tips for when you're thinking about installing a kitchen island! Let us know if you have any questions!