Kitchen islands are the superstars of today’s open floor plan kitchens. Not only do they provide extra prep space and storage, but they become a natural gathering spot for family, friends, and entertaining. If you’re remodeling your kitchen, including a thoughtfully designed island should be at the top of your priority list.
But not all islands are created equal. To make the most of your investment, your new or redesigned island needs to check all the boxes when it comes to size, seating, storage, and style. Follow our guide to designing a kitchen island that perfectly fits your needs and aesthetic.
Choosing the Right Island Size and Layout
Let’s start with the fundamentals – size and layout. The island should be scaled appropriately to your overall kitchen dimensions. An oversized island crammed into a small kitchen will disrupt workflow. Conversely, a tiny island in a spacious kitchen looks lost and won’t provide ample function.
As a general rule of thumb, allow at least 42-48 inches of clearance around all sides of the island. This leaves plenty of room for multiple people to work and move around. For barstool seating, allow 25-26 inches per stool.
Common island shapes include rectangular, L-shaped, and U-shaped. Opt for a layout that fits your existing floorplan while supporting your intended uses. An L-shaped design can allow for seating on two adjacent sides, for example.
Be thoughtful about where you position the island in relation to work triangles, appliances, entryways, and windows. You want to allow for natural workflow between tasks while keeping the space open and inviting.
Maximizing Your Island for Storage
One major advantage of islands is their ability to incorporate customized storage. While traditional base cabinets only offer access from one side, an island can be designed for storage accessibility from all directions.
Incorporate deep drawers for pots and pans, pull-out shelves for spices and cutting boards, and specialized compartments like appliance garages. Glass-front cabinets show off pretty dishware while closed storage conceals less attractive items.
Get creative with extra storage options like wine fridges, microwave drawers, and built-in charging stations. Take advantage of every nook and cranny – you can even use toe-kick space for pull-out storage.
Organizational accessories like tiered shelves, utensil dividers, and lazy susans keep items neatly arranged and easy to access. Labels ensure everything goes back in its place.
Comfortable Yet Space-Saving Island Seating
For many homeowners, one key motivation for adding an island is gaining a casual dining space. Barstool seating around a portion of the island perimeter allows you to take advantage of the extra surface area.
Allow 25-26 inches per stool to comfortably accommodate pulled-out seats. Look for adjustable-height stools that work for both counter and bar height. Swivel capability makes getting in and out easier.
Maximize your existing footprint by choosing stools with a slim profile or transparent design. If you’re tight on space, stools with a backless, saddle-style seat take up less room when pushed in.
Rather than seating around all sides, limit it to just one side or two adjacent sides. This still allows accessible standing room for food prep and entertaining.
Choosing the Right Island Countertop
The countertop material plays a big role in your island’s aesthetics and functionality. Butcher block is trending for its natural, timeless look that fits both rustic and contemporary styles. It also provides a durable work surface.
But don’t overlook other great options like granite, marble, and engineered quartz. While matching the island countertop to your main kitchen counters creates a streamlined look, contrasting materials make a bold design statement.
Details like an integrated sink or waterfall edge complement the island style. Carefully weigh the pros and cons of each material in terms of durability, ease of cleaning, and appearance.
Islands for Food Prep and Dining
Seamlessly incorporate your island into food preparation tasks with the inclusion of a prep sink and accessories. Leave ample counter space next to the main kitchen counters for transferring ingredients back and forth.
Under-cabinet outlets and pop-up charging stations ensure you can plug in appliances and devices right where you need them. Task lighting illuminates food prep areas, while pendant lights add ambiance for dining.
If using the island for casual meals, allow enough countertop space for plates, glassware, and other tableware items. Multi-level islands provide room for dining at counter height on one side and standard height on the other.
Entertaining and Working from the Island
With its spacious surface area and open access, an island naturally becomes the go-to spot for entertaining guests. The open concept connects it to living areas, allowing you to mingle with guests as you prepare appetizers and drinks.
Incorporate extras like stemware storage, a wine refrigerator, and outlets for party appliances. Charging stations let guests plug in phones and other devices.
The island can also double as a workspace for homework or office tasks. Built-in lighting illuminates the surface for reading or using a laptop. Hide cords and chargers in discreet pull-out drawers.
The Finishing Touches – Decor and Details
Tie your dream island together with gorgeous finishing details. Contrast the island color and materials from the main cabinetry for an eye-catching focal point.
Personalize with trimmed corners, fluted panels, or ornamental brackets. Coordinate any metal finishes with fixtures like lighting and hardware for a cohesive look.
Don’t forget about the barstools! Their style, height, shape, and color should complement your island design. Integrated lighting casts both tasks and ambiance.
By considering all the options for storage, seating, and design, you can create a kitchen island that checks every box on both form and function.
With proper planning and design considerations, your new or remodeled kitchen island will enhance both the style and practicality of your kitchen. Maximize every inch to incorporate specialized storage solutions. Allow comfortable seating space without disrupting workflow. And customize the finishes, materials, and accessories to create your perfect island focal point.
Keep these tips in mind, and you’ll end up with a kitchen island that serves your needs beautifully while providing the gathering place your home deserves.
