Kitchen Island Design Must Haves and Challenges
Learn the Must-Have Elements For Kitchen Island Design
Adding a kitchen island offers homeowners many benefits like an extra countertop, more storage, a gathering place where family and guests can sit, improved flow, and more. While there are many advantages, designing an island isn't a one-size-fits-all project. The truth is countless considerations go into how your island will look and function.
While there are many benefits, there are some challenges to consider and things to avoid when creating a kitchen island design. This post will explore a few kitchen island must-haves and some things to avoid. Hint, it's all about function first!
Kitchen Island Design Must-Haves
When designing your kitchen island, some features are simply must-haves. They encompass both form and function and can give you an aesthetically beautiful and highly functional island. Here are some must-haves to consider.
Additional Kitchen Seating
By far, the top request from homeowners is additional seating. The island is traditionally a gathering spot for family and friends. There are many different ways to approach seating. It really depends on how your family uses the space.
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For example, if you expect the seating will be used for doing homework or having a quick after-school snack, you might want all the seats on one side of the island. If you want to be able to look at the person next to you when having a conversation, you might consider seating on two sides. Consider that for comfort, you'll need at least 24-inches between each seat.
How you use the island can affect other elements like the countertop height and overhang. For example, the standard countertop height is 36-inches. However, if you plan on using bar stools, consider a 42-inch high countertop with a deeper overhang to accommodate taller barstools.
Double Sided Storage
Your kitchen island design can add tons of storage to your space. While most of the focus will be on the interior side of the island, don't overlook the back side. You can add extra cabinets under the overhang on the backside. It can create a more finished look. Since the latest kitchen designs are moving away from upper cabinetry, your island can help replace lost storage space. You can also consider cabinets, drawers, or shelves at the end of your island.
Electrical Outlets
pop-up outlets can be used to provide electrical where it’s most needed
Building codes require at least one outlet for an island and more based on the size. So you'll want to consider the best location for your outlets. Talk to your kitchen designer and get their advice. Proper outlet placement allows you to plug in a blender right where it's needed. Or you can use the outlets for charging your phone or other devices. An outlet on the back side of an island is the perfect place for kids to charge their laptops when doing homework. You might also want to consider adding an outlet in a drawer for charging devices to cut down on visual clutter.
Adding a Secondary Fridge
Adding a beverage fridge, wine refrigerator, or refrigerator drawer on the island is a great way to add functionality. A second, smaller fridge allows kids to grab a drink or snack without disrupting the main work triangle. A good spot is at the end of the island, far away from the action. A fridge on the outer side of the island is great when entertaining. During a party, the countertop above the fridge can function as a drink station, leaving plenty of workspace on the other side of the island for food prep.
In-Island Microwave
a microwave drawer is the most convenient way to place a microwave in an island. this island is built to look like a furniture piece.
Like a beverage fridge, built-in microwave in the island serves a similar purpose, allowing people to heat up coffee or a snack without getting in the way. If you tend to use the island as the primary food prep zone, having a microwave close by can minimize trips back and forth. Placing the microwave into the island frees up counter space and reduces clutter.
Choosing the Right Countertop Material
The right countertop is critical to a highly functional island. An island typically becomes the main prep gathering area, prep space, homework center, and more. So you want it to be as durable as possible. Many remodelers swear by engineered quartz for its heat and stain resistance. However, quartz isn't the only choice. Your remodeling professional or kitchen designer may have ideas for what might work better to meet your needs and lifestyle.
Prep Sink
If your main sink isn't on the island, consider the addition of a prep sink. It allows more than one person to prep and cook comfortably. If the island is the main preparation area, having a prep sink lets you rinse items right next to where you work. This prevents rinsing items in the main sink and dripping on the floor as you transfer food to the prep space. Consider locating the prep sink off to one side of the island, preferably near the main refrigerator. This lets you quickly access veggies and other food and take it to the basin. Placing the prep sink on one side of the island keeps a large work surface for chopping or serving space.
Challenges to Consider When Planning Your Kitchen Island Design
Even with all the benefits, there are some downsides to having a kitchen island. This is especially true if your decision is led by form and does not consider function. Here are some challenges to consider.
First, an island might not work in your space. If your home has a smaller footprint or a closed-off kitchen, you might not have the space. Unfortunately, even a smaller version can be an awkward addition to a tiny kitchen. An island might not be worth having the extra workspace.
No matter how much counter space you have, stuff fills it up and can cause visual clutter. Adding an island can compound the problem. An island can quickly become a mail-sorting space or a spot to dry dishes. It's not like turning the seldom-used dining room table into a complete mess. It also sometimes becomes a reason to keep adding appliances like that air fryer you always wanted.
The solution is to work with a design-build professional or kitchen designer when planning your kitchen island design. A good designer will work with you to design an island that meets your family's needs aesthetically and functionally. If you have the space, a kitchen island is an excellent addition to your remodeling project.
If you're considering a kitchen renovation project and live in the Greater Madison area, call the experts at Degnan Design-Build-Remodel at (608) 846-5963. We can help you to take your kitchen island design to the next level of comfort and function! If you'd like to know more, we're always happy to answer all of your questions.