Kitchen islands provide additional work and storage space, and can really enhance the look of your kitchen. If you have a small space, though, is it really worth trying to incorporate one? We take a look at the pros and cons of adding this feature to your kitchen.
What are kitchen islands?
Kitchen islands are freestanding units which aren’t integrated with the rest of the cabinets. Usually, they’re made to look like the other cabinets for continuity and topped with the same worksurface. There’s no reason why you shouldn’t go for something completely different though, if you like the eclectic look!
They vary from the small and simple to the elaborate, containing everything from extra seating and sinks to cooking appliances and storage. If well planned and sited they can be ergonomically efficient, so that you can reach your extra workspace just by turning round.
The vast majority of kitchen companies will offer options for a kitchen island, and you can have something made to measure if your space is particularly awkward. You can even get islands on castor wheels which can be moved around depending on how you’re using them.
Do you have room for a kitchen island?
While kitchen islands can be very useful, there’s no point in having one if you’re going to have to turn sideways to squeeze between it and the wall! For safety purposes you need to have at least 1 metre of space all around the island, otherwise it will form a blockage in the ease of movement around the room.
Remember that you’ll sometimes have cabinet doors or drawers and the doors of the cupboards in the kitchen island open at the same time, so there needs to be room to do both safely. The island itself needs to be at least 1 metre square to be of any use.
It’s also best not to put the island too far away from the other units, even if you have a huge space at your disposal. If the corridor is too wide, the work area starts to become unergonomic as you’ll have to take a step to reach the island rather than just turning round.
What should you use your kitchen island for?
Depending on the size of the island you have room for, the world is your oyster! Small islands can incorporate a couple of cupboards in the pedestal unit and a couple of bar chairs to make use of the overhanging worktop as a breakfast bar. For larger islands, you can have a sink, hob, oven or anything else you like, which means you can keep your main worktop free.
Kitchen island alternatives
Kitchen islands look great but they can be pricey, and if space or budget doesn’t allow then you might like to consider a butcher’s block or even an old-fashioned drinks trolley. These will both give you extra workspace without taking up too much room – you might like to chock the wheels on the trolley, though, to prevent it skittering away at the wrong moment!
If you’re keen to add a kitchen island to your room, then it’s best to consult a designer who’ll come up with a plan for how best to use the available room. Many manufacturers offer a free design service, or one which can be redeemed against purchases, so it can be cost effective to get expert advice.
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