An island can take your kitchen to the next level of functionality, helping you get more from the space you have. Let’s talk about purpose, island types, design considerations and other important topics. 

Your Kitchen Island’s Purpose

What do you want from your kitchen island? The list of possibilities available is quite long. How many of these you incorporate into your kitchen island design will depend on your personal preferences balanced with your budget and the space you have to create your ideal kitchen space.

• More space: Countertop space for food preparation or for small appliances, eating space or desk space
• More storage: Enclosed or open storage space for pots, pans, gadgets and cookbooks
• More functionality: A prep  location for your  that creates more efficient movement between the sink, refrigerator and range or cooktop

Kitchen Island Types

Here’s an overview of your island options. Perhaps it will help solidify what you want in an island. 

Work: If your greatest need is more workspace, a table-like work island with open sides is an affordable and attractive choice. Work islands of this type are not anchored to the floor, so they are moveable.

Storage: This type includes a work top with closed storage cabinets and/or shelving. 

Moveable/Cart: Moveable kitchen islands are small and light enough for one or two people to lift and relocate. Storage cart islands have wheels with locks to allow or prevent rolling. They are available in many designs.

Things to Think About in Kitchen Island Design

Giving thought to these factors will help you decide on the kitchen island design that adds maximum value to your kitchen without being “in the way.”

The space available: An island should look proportional to the rest of the room. It shouldn’t block paths connecting the refrigerator, sink and range. The traffic paths around the structure shouldn’t be cramped.

The moveable island option: A moveable island cart on wheels is ideal where kitchen space is limited. Ready-to-assemble islands on wheels are available.

The height of the countertop: Standard is 36 inches, but a 42 inch countertop works well for a breakfast bar with stools, if that’s part of the design. A lower countertop, perhaps 30 inches, makes chopping vegetables, kneading dough and rolling it out easier. It’s a better height for kids preparing food. A lower tier on the island countertop should also be considered if you are short in stature. After all, this is your dream kitchen, and it should be a custom fit for you, not for someone you might sell the home to in 15 years.

Overhead lighting: Good lighting complements good island design. Because it is work space, the island should be lit brightly but pleasantly. Hanging lighting is one way to bring bright, focused light to where it is needed.