Who doesn’t love an island getaway? No, we’re not talking about taking a vacation to the Bahamas, we’re talking about adding an island to your kitchen! Kitchen islands are great for many reasons, which we will discuss below. However, if you have a small kitchen footprint, we do not recommend trying to force an island into your design. Many kitchens can be functional without the addition of an island, in fact, sometimes when you try to force an island to fit in your space it can create a less functional and clunky space. On the other hand, if you do have the space, we highly recommend adding an island to your kitchen. Not only will it add functionality, but it can be a place for friends and family to gather and create beautiful memories for years to come.
What are the Benefits?
1. More Counter Space
Kitchen islands give you more counter space for meal prep as well as space for extra appliances and outlets. Islands create a separate workstation that is great for giving you the functional workflow you need to be totally satisfied with your kitchen. Gas, heating, and plumbing can all be hooked up to an island which means you can have a stovetop, dishwasher, sink, or any other type of appliance added to the island. If you are looking for a meal prep station, you should include a sink (a sink with a built-in cutting board would be ideal!) a knife sharpener, and a lot of open counter space. If you would prefer a baking station, your island should consist of an oven, additional outlets for small appliances, built-in cooling racks, and you may want to consider even customizing your island storage to accommodate items like baking sheets and mixing bowls. The possibilities are endless!
2. More Storage Space
On top of the additional counter space, islands give you more storage space for small appliances, pots and pans, etc. which is so important for any kitchen space. One of the biggest complaints we get from our clients before we renovate their kitchen is that they do not have enough storage space in their kitchen. Our rule of thumb is that it’s better to have too much storage space than not enough so always look for ways to incorporate additional storage space in your kitchen design. If you are looking for unique storage options in your kitchen, consider adding a built-in wine rack to your island like the one shown in the photo above! If wine isn’t really your thing, there are many other types of unique storage options for your island.
3. Focal Point
Your kitchen’s island creates a dramatic focal point in your kitchen space. Our kitchen designers love using the kitchen island for a pop of color and contrast. For example, in some of our two-tone kitchens, we’ll keep the same color cabinetry for the perimeter, but then have a unique color on just the island to make it stand out. Another way to make it stand out is by having a different countertop than the perimeter cabinetry. Adding unique, eye-catching pendant lighting above an island can also add a great element of design. Islands allow you to get creative with your kitchen design and really show off your personality and design taste!
4. Room for Additional Seating
This is probably the biggest selling point for our customers who love to entertain. Having an island allows your friends and family to gather in your kitchen comfortably while you make food or have a glass of wine. It’s also a great spot for your kids to do their homework while you make dinner, or for them to sit and help you bake cookies during the holidays. We are strong believers that the best memories are made in the kitchen and kitchen islands help you create the memories that will last a lifetime.
If you are interested in adding a kitchen island to your renovation or if you have any other questions about your kitchen cabinets, please reach out to us today.