It’s hard to miss all the photos on Pinterest and Houzz of those elegant kitchens with the large focal point islands. They are beautiful, functional, and one of the most desired aspects of kitchen remodels. They have multifunction design aspects that can add both storage and counter space, seating, and entertaining areas. You have a myriad of designs, materials and colors to choose from, as well as complimentary pendant lighting. How do you achieve that functional, perfectly designed kitchen island that suits your space and your aesthetic?
It’s easy to focus on just the appearance of the island, and while that is certainly important, there are other factors to be considered. How you will be using the kitchen island will dictate its design more than anything else. Will you use it for meal prep? Will it be used for DIY projects and kid’s homework? Are you planning on hosting a using the space for appetizers and drink for your guests? These are some of the questions you will need to consider when designer your island.
The Size
Another question to consider is the overall size of your island. All kitchens are uniquely different and you must consider the space available and the way you will be using the island. An oversized structure that is too large for your particular kitchen may take up precious walking space. Finding the perfect fit that will give you the functionality you need as well as enhancing the overall appearance of your kitchen is the key.
The Appliances
Not all kitchen islands have a cooktop, but deciding want to include in your island will be essential to its design. Designing your island will reflect your personal needs. Even though incorporating a cooktop will sacrifice workspace, this may be a priority for you. The appliances you use regularly would also be a factor. For example, if you use your Kitchen Aid mixer frequently, you would want to make room for that.
The Countertop
As you design your kitchen island, another important decision to make is the type of countertop you want. You could obviously use the same material that you have throughout your kitchen, but there are no rules and mixing and matching is a fun new trend we see in kitchen island designs. Just keep in mind the island is likely to receive more wear and tear than other countertop spaces. This means it’s more susceptible to staining or chipping. If you have marble as your perimeter countertop, maybe consider a similar-looking quartz product. Conversely, if a rustic look is more to your taste, you could choose a wooden top that will stain, dent, and tarnish with age, creating its own unique patina.
The Outlets
In order to use your island as intended, it’s crucial to consider ample outlets for all those appliances you love to use. There are many innovative options that can be hidden, preventing them from being an eyesore. Remember, outlets are not only important for appliances, but you might want to charge your tablet while watching your favorite show as you cook dinner.
The Seating
If you have enough space in your island design, you might consider adding a ledge to the island design, allowing the addition of hight-top seating to your kitchen island. This is an excellent way to open the space up to visitors and family who might want to hang out with you while you’re cooking.
The Lighting
Whether you are preparing your favorite dish or your children are working on their homework, you’ll want plenty of light, which brings up another important consideration. How will you light the island? The most popular way is decorative pendant lights. These hang from the ceiling and get closer to the surface of the island than recessed ceiling lights. You could even decide to have both, to ensure you have all the lighting needed to complete any task.
The Color Pallet
Similar to the countertops, your kitchen island cabinets match your other cabinets, or you can follow the latest trend choosing a bold color to make your kitchen island pop! Another option is a stained wood look while your perimeter cabinets are painted. Either way, it’s something you’ll want to consider as you finish up your kitchen island design decisions.
A kitchen island is an exciting element to a kitchen remodel, and by going through this list with your designer you can to ensure that you will have the kitchen island of your dreams!
