Leyla Sawyer
But with the last of the leaves falling from the trees, the days getting shorter, and the temperatures dropping, it’s finally time to accept that summer is over. The first thing you need to do when designing a kitchen island to make sure you understand the key logistical measurements and requirements for installing one – there are some rules that simply shouldn’t be broken.
This also serves as a way to keep chatting guests and homework-doing kids separate from cooking areas.
Make your island work for you – and increase your open counter space – by including a prep sink and special built-in nooks for microwaves, wine refrigerators, and dishwashers.
Islands provide ample space for all of your kitchen gadgets, from food processors, blenders, and standing mixers, to charging stations and radios. A separate-but-attached dining table not only adds visual interest to your kitchen, but also provides extra seating for entertaining as well as a place where kids can play or work without getting in the chef’s way.
Don’t be afraid to try something a little different with design, layout, or materials – a non-traditional island doesn’t mean it can’t be timeless. A prep sink designates the island closest to the stove as a work area, while seating opens the other up for eating and gathering.
Whether you go for a single show-stopping chandelier or a row of utilitarian pendants, it’s important to hang your lighting at the correct height.
Opt for 30 to 36 inches above the top of the counter for a room with 8-foot ceilings to ensure lighting won’t obstruct views or bang heads.
A smaller, moveable island acts as a functional focal point that can add a ton of character – and extra storage – for a fraction of the square footage (and cost!
