A kitchen island is as functional as it is beautiful. It makes sense why this focal statement piece has been so trendy for years.
A kitchen island is as functional as it is beautiful. It makes sense why this focal statement piece has been so trendy for years. Kitchen islands can play the roles of cabinetry, counter space, a place to house appliances, a workspace, or merely a space to bond. However, that doesn’t mean that it’s best to add every feature you can. We recommend making choices that work for style and lifestyle when enhancing your kitchen. Since this feature is central, the wrong selection can throw off your kitchen’s ambiance. Before narrowing down a kitchen island, take the time to read these five helpful tips.
Choose the Appropriate Kitchen Island Size
Choose the right fit so you don’t feel cramped. There isn’t anything wrong with choosing a large centerpiece if you have the space. However, if you don’t have the room, you don’t want to overwhelm the room. Optimally, it would be best to have no less than 36 and no more than 48 inches of space between opposite counter areas and another counter. In other words, if there is another cook in the kitchen, you want to be able to move around with ease.
Consider the Shape
The kitchen’s shape will determine the island’s shape. A long and narrow kitchen needs a comparable kitchen island. The same goes for a square kitchen. You could also consider curving the front edge of your island to soften its appearance and create more walking space.
Think About an Open Vs. Closed Island
Big, bright kitchens pair well with solid cabinetry. An open or closed island refers to its base. The base’s configuration can have solid cabinetry or shelving or a narrow pedestal functioning as a foundation for counter space. Also, you might consider a cabinet-based island in a kitchen with dark cabinetry if there is plenty of floor space. On the other hand, smaller kitchens pair well with open space under the counter to not overwhelm the space. A shelved island lightens the visual weight.
Selecting the Style
Any enhancement you add to your home should match the architectural style. If you have an industrial-style loft space, a granite countertop might appear out of place here. However, if the kitchen has modern and contemporary elements, a granite countertop might be more suitable. The materials used in the counter and cabinetry should blend effortlessly with other components in your kitchen.
Figuring out How You’d Like Your Kitchen to Function
If you bake or cook elaborate meals in the kitchen, you’ll want an island with a large surface and minimal obstructions. If you love preparing fresh fruits and veggies, you might consider having a sink in the middle of your kitchen island. You could also like not to cook at all. Then, it might be best to use your island for entertainment purposes only, ensuring that you have enough space for comfortable seating.
KITCHEN AND BATH REMODELING FROM KENWOOD KITCHENS
Ready to get started on your next kitchen, bathroom, or closet project? Kenwood Kitchens can help. Since opening its doors in 1974, Kenwood Kitchens has made a name for itself throughout Maryland as a complete kitchen and bathroom remodeling firm.
We want our clients to get what they deserve: a quality installation with quality products at a fair price. Contact our expert planners today for a free consultation about your dream project.
Our showrooms are unparalleled, each has over a dozen full models for you to explore. With showrooms located in Lutherville, Abingdon, Columbia, or Annapolis, Maryland, Kenwood Kitchens is the place for all of your kitchen and bathroom needs. Don’t hesitate to give us a call at (800) 211-8394.