A well-designed kitchen island can be the focal point of any kitchen or great room. It seems that the party always gathers in the kitchen, so why not plan for that in your home? We may be partial, but we think that the kitchen islands in the Phillips Remodel, the Pasadena Kitchen Remodel, and the Bluff Residence are three good examples of how a large kitchen island can be incorporated into your space. Here are some photos of those, and other projects we have worked on.
There are a couple of things to keep in mind when implementing an island into your kitchen design:
Circulation - How will people enter the kitchen, gather around the island, and move throughout the space?
The Kitchen Triangle - This is a theory of kitchen design that takes into account how people move between the refrigerator, the stove, and the sink. Essentially, the space between these three kitchen elements should form a triangle for optimal movement between them.
Spacing Between the Island and Wall Cabinets - Ideally, you'll want at least 3 feet, but maybe more. One more thing to think about here - you'll want enough room that you can walk by an opened dishwasher, if possible.
Storage - A countertop overhang makes for comfortable seating around the island, but it can make access to storage cabinets difficult. Let's be honest, though. Everyone has at least a couple small appliances or dishes that are rarely used, and can be stored in a tucked-away cabinet under a kitchen island overhang.
Size - It is likely that the size of your kitchen will determine just how big your island can be. But, it is important to consider how many seats you might want around the island as a planning input. A good rule of thumb is to provide at least 24 inches of space for each person.
Utilities - Whether you place the sink, oven, or stove on the kitchen island is a matter of personal preference and kitchen layout. However, it is important to include ample electrical outlets in the island, particularly near the seating areas. We prefer the outlets with built-in USB ports.
It is not enough that a project looks nice - Hunter Smith Architecture is passionate about designing functional spaces for our clients. Whether or not you decide that you want a kitchen island incorporated into your project, we are here to help you make the most out of your space. See some examples of from our Portfolio, and Contact us to discuss your ideas for your kitchen.