In recent years, many have favoured an open-plan layout complete with a kitchen island. It is easy to see why, due to the many benefits this type of layout offers. Whether you are wanting extra seating, increased storage space, or a more integrative layout, a kitchen island may be the right choice for your kitchen.
What is a Kitchen Island?
A kitchen island refers to a freestanding work surface which is typically in the centre of a kitchen. These islands work to maximise your surface area, which can be especially useful for those needing more space for chopping or food preparation. Additionally, kitchen islands can act as an additional dining area with extra seating, or a key storage unit to make the most of your kitchen space.
Benefits of a Kitchen with an Island
There are many advantages to designing a kitchen with an open-plan layout and island. Here we explore the key benefits:
More Space
Having a kitchen with an island facilitates more counter space. This, in turn, makes all food preparation far easier and can help to maintain a clean kitchen. With more space, there is more room for chopping, rolling or mixing. The additional space can prove especially beneficial for those frequent cooks or those who like to try new recipes with multiple elements.
Additional Storage
A kitchen island enables you to store more things in your kitchen. Whether you opt for an island with classic cabinets or cupboards, or prefer a more bespoke model with designated drawers, fridges or wine coolers, a kitchen island can open a whole world of possibility for creative storage solutions. This can be useful for those with a small kitchen or with few cabinets who want to maximise their storage space.
Dining Area
One of the key functions of a kitchen island is as an extra seating and dining area. This can act as a key social hub in the home. Rather than having the kitchen and dining room as two totally independent spaces, the kitchen island allows those using the kitchen, and those looking to eat or work at a surface, to exist simultaneously. As such, kitchen islands can be a great option for families, co-living spaces or those who frequently host guests.
Change Shape
Kitchen islands can add a great deal of flexibility for your kitchen. Not only do they add the option of additional seating or storage, they also help you convert the shape of your kitchen For example, if you have an L-shaped kitchen, by adding an island, you can easily change this into a U-shaped kitchen.
Factors to Consider
Space
Experts, the National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA) suggest that an open kitchen with an island design should have enough space for a minimum of 42 inches of clearance on each side of the island. When building a new kitchen, you should take into account the dimensions of your kitchen, how much space you have and how big the island should be.
Affordability
Another factor to take into consideration is your budget. The costs incurred from building a kitchen island can soon add up, both for the countertop itself, any cabinetry and any additional features such as sinks, refrigerators or fixtures. Of course, the price will depend on the design and any features you choose for your kitchen island.
To discuss a kitchen island and bespoke kitchen for you, speak to one of our dedicated staff members today on 0208 806 5166 or email us at [email protected]
