Island Time: Why Kitchen Island Design Matters

The kitchen island is today's most popular kitchen built-in, and it plays a huge role in how your kitchen works and looks. It adds storage and workspace and becomes a statement piece and gathering spot. Before you build one, here are three things to consider.

1. Location Matters

Islands are usually centered in the kitchen to create a focal point that is easy to reach from anywhere. A central island anchors the room and provides counter space in every direction.

If the island holds the sink or cooktop, keep the work triangle between sink, refrigerator and stove in mind. Plan for 42 inches between the island and base cabinets for a single cook, or 48 inches for multiple cooks. Not sure an island fits? Read how to know if it's island time in your kitchen.

2. Function Is Beauty

Decide how you will use your island first. Many islands serve two roles, with cooking on one side and eating on the other. Ask yourself and your family:

• Do you want appliances? A cooktop, dishwasher, microwave, wine cooler or sink may need plumbing, electrical or ductwork and more space. Your designer will make sure everything fits.
• What storage do you need? Large drawers for pots and pans, or smaller drawers for utensils? If your kitchen already has plenty of storage, you may not need much more.
• Fixed or mobile? A rolling island works well in smaller kitchens. Larger kitchens usually call for a fixed island.
• Will it have seating? Plan for stools or chairs, countertop height and enough overhang for comfortable knee room.

3. Light It Up

Your island is the center of your hardest-working room, so it needs layered lighting. Learn more in 4 tips to brighten your kitchen.

• Pendant lights create focused pools of light and add style. In an open plan, coordinate them with lighting in nearby rooms.
• Recessed lights keep the space bright and functional without fixtures to bump into.
• A single large fixture combines fashion and function and adds ambient light in a spacious kitchen.

Design Your Kitchen Island

Once your island is in place, you will wonder how you lived without it. Explore our kitchen remodel projects, then call Tracy Tesmer Design and Remodeling at 678-450-1700 or contact us online.