The Perfect Island

The Perfect Island

Kitchen islands have become one of the most popular features in homes these days. When creating your own, there are several factors to consider. Read through some of the key points we listed below to begin yours! 

Dining or Storage

Kitchen islands have many things to offer. It is important for you to determine what its primary function will be! Would you like to use it as your primary dinning table? Do you need more storage? How about a food prep area? Do you want more room to entertain? To figure this out take an inventory of your kitchen, and view the layout of your space. This will help you narrow in on your needs and determine what your island will predominantly be used for. 

Sizing

Once you have determined your function, it is time to narrow in on size! Depending on what you are using it for, your island needs to be large enough to accommodate your needs, but not so big that it overpowers your space and limits your walk ways. Or vise versa. A small island may not accommodate your primary function and may look out of place in a large kitchen. Sizing is determined by the size of your space. Look at the overall foot print and make sure your are able to have enough walking space and be able to open your doors and drawers without running into anything else! If you are adding to your existing kitchen, a great tip is to measure your island plan and tape the dimensions like a template on your floor.

L-Shaped Island

Galley Shaped Island

All in the Shape

There are several different shapes to islands and the shape will be determined by your function. Common shapes like L-shaped and U-shaped islands offer a lot of counter-top space and are best suited for larger scale kitchens. The most popular shaped island is a Galley shape. This allows for maximum accessibility and can be used in large or small kitchens.

U-Shaped Island

Other custom shapes can be created depending on your needs and will offer the most function for your household but will also make a statement! .

Storage or Appliances

Would you like to move some of your appliances in to your island? Along with considering the primary function, you will have to determine if your island will have other responsibilities. Having a sink, oven or dishwasher in the island will open up some major room on your walls and offer more storage for dinnerware and or food. If no appliances are to be relocated, think of cabinet accessories that will help your island maximize your storage capacity and efficiency. A roll out trash and recycling unit will remove containers off your floor. Pull-out pot and pan accessories will offer you ease and comfort! 

Down to the Levels

Adding multiple levels to your island will add additional function. Depending on your needs, adding a bar height snack bar will create separate areas for specific things and are excellent for entertaining. This second level offers room to eat and serve your guests without taking up your food prep area and will keep things clean and organized. Becoming more popular is adding a lower level, similar in height for dinning table seating. This option again creates separation and will also create a formal seating area without the need for a table. 

On the Move

If your island is mainly for food prep, storage and or seating, you may want it to be mobile! Some islands with caster wheels offer mobility and can be a great solution for smaller kitchens. Space may need to change in smaller spaces depending on the event. Being able to relocate the island will maximize the multiple uses of your space. 

Adding an island to your kitchen will offer some great appeal and style! Above all else it must be functional! When in doubt, ask our cabinet designers to ensure your goals and needs are considered when creating your custom island!