There are so many factors to consider when planning or re-designing your kitchen. Whether you’re building a new extension or simply renovating your existing space, for many a kitchen island is a must have. Not only do they provide a lot more counter space for your cooking, baking, dining and entertaining, they also provide you with ample storage and add the ultimate wow-factor to a kitchen.
But how do you know what style, shape and finish to go for?
What will you use the island for?
When planning your new kitchen island, you’ll need to think about what it’s main functions will be. Will you be using it as a dining and entertaining space? What about somewhere to bake or cook for the family? Perhaps you’ll use it as a washing up area? Ultimately, deciding on its functionality will help you during the design phase.
If it’s going to be an entertaining space, why not include some bar stools so guests can sit and enjoy a drink or food? You could even incorporate a built in wine cooler if your budget will allow.
If you’re going to be cooking and baking on your new kitchen island, you could choose to have a hob and extractor fan built into the worktop. This creates a modern, sleek finish and is sure to wow your family and friends.
How big does your kitchen island need to be
The size of your new island will ultimately depend on the amount of space you have in your kitchen. If you’re building an extension, it’s like that you’ll have create enough space during the planning process for an island as big as you’d like. However, if you’re working within your existing room, you’ll need to consider the size carefully.
You don’t want your island to take up too much space, but for some, the bigger the better! It’s very much personal preference where size is concerned. The size highly depends on what you will actually use your kitchen island for: Do you want to use it for entertaining and dining? Or is it simply meant to provide more workspace? Many people envision their new addition as the new social hub, bringing together guests and in that case a big kitchen island is the right way to go about it.
Before committing to choosing a specific size you should check that the chosen worktop material is available, though, since ideally it should be created from one slab of material to ensure no joint lines are spoiling the look.
Should you opt for a standard shape?
Did you know you don’t have to choose a standard square or rectangular shape? If you have the space available, you could opt for an L-shaped or even a curved island for more of a wow-factor! Remember, you will need quite a substantial amount of floor space to fit in a kitchen island like this. You don’t want to leave yourself with very little room to walk around it!
Above these top three things to consider, you’ll also want to think about things such as whether or not your new kitchen island needs a power supply, which is likely to be a yes if you’re thinking of using any appliances on it. You’ll also need to put some thought into what type of worktop you’re going to choose. Will you opt for a simple style or have marble or quartz draping over the edge to the floor?
With so much to think about, it can be difficult to know where to start. But with these top questions to ask yourself, you’ll have planned your perfect kitchen island in no time!
