A gorgeous open and inviting room, complete with granite countertops, tall ceilings, tons of storage, stainless steel appliances, and a large island… a common dream among many for the perfect kitchen. This is not a reality for many homes, but if you’re planning on renovating and would love to add a kitchen island then here are some questions you need to ask yourself first.
What is the sole purpose for the island? If you plan on using it for extra cook space then having a sizable island will matter. If you want to use it for extra space to entertain guests then you’ll want to make sure to have a countertop overhang (about 15 inches) so guests can pull up a bar stool. If you want to use it for more storage then you’ll need to plan on adding shelving.
Will this obstruct the kitchen triangle? The most common and functional layout for the kitchen is to create a triangle between the sink, refrigerator, and the stove. If your dreamy new island is going to break up the functionality of this trio then you may want to reconsider the addition. If you have the funds to move electrical and plumbing in order to relocate the appliances and sink then continue on, but keep the trio in mind.
What size island is best for the size of your kitchen? Typically, a kitchen island should be at least two feet deep and three feet wide. If this isn’t a possibility for your kitchen then an island is out of the question. If you have plenty of room to add a sizable island then keep in mind that you’ll want at least 3 feet of clearance on the ends and about 4 feet of clearance on the working sides. Adding a sink or cooktop will increase the necessary dimensions to at least 7 feet.
How high should it be? A large island can be beautiful as one big slab or broken into tiers. A typical island 36 inches high for a comfortable workspace. If you’d like a tiered look then raise the bar seating area to 42 inches high.
Do I need a designer? Odds are a project like this may be a little over your head between coordinating the cabinetry, countertops, electrical, and plumbing, all while being unable to cook for a period of time. We don’t want you living on hot pockets and fast food for weeks on end, so we can help get the project done as quickly as possible. Schedule a consultation with us today.
