What are Different Types of Kitchen Islands?
If you’re looking for a way to expand useable space in your kitchen without knocking down a wall for an addition, consider looking at kitchen islands. Whether you’re looking for a temporary solution in a rented space or a more permanent solution, there’s an island that will suit your needs.
Kitchen islands can be both fixed and mobile. If you’re renting a home and don’t have the ability to add a permanent fixture, mobile kitchen islands are a fast, simple way to create more countertop space.
On the other hand, if you own your home and are ready for an upgrade, absolutely consider having a kitchen island installed. There are multiple types of islands worth considering, whether you’re looking for more seating and want a counter to eat at, or prefer a bigger space for food prep.
Kitchen island ideas to consider:
- Do you want cabinet space beneath your countertop for storage?
- Do you want seating so you can snack or eat at your counter?
- What height are you looking for?
- Is there a standard height?
- Do you have accessibility needs?
- Should your island countertop match the rest of your counters?
- How big should your island be?
- Will you run electric to it for items like cooktops, trash compactors, or for running other appliances?
- What type of lighting will you use in the area?
- How much walking space will there be in your kitchen if you add an island?
With so many variations, it’s impossible to give one precise answer. That’s because your kitchen is unique to your home. When creating a kitchen island, you’ll want to look at how much available space you have. Then consider how it will fit into your workflow.
How much extra countertop space are you hoping to acquire? What will the space be used for, and how will that impact the choices you make for the bottom portion of the island?
An average kitchen island runs just over six feet in length, though custom sized islands can be made as well. There are also standards when it comes to counter height, with exceptions made for those who need accessibility options. Standard heights run at 30 inches, 36 inches, and 42 inches tall.
An interesting idea is to create an island that has multiple heights. This would be ideal for those who want one space for cooking, with another for seating.
If you like to keep up with trends, waterfall countertops are another option. This is where the countertop material goes down the side of the unit and doesn’t simply cover the top.
When choosing the feel of your kitchen island, many people wonder if they should choose a matching countertop to the one which they already have, or if it should be a different material, such as stainless steel or butcher block to offer a snippet of contrast.
Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, so go with what makes you happiest. If you like things to match, opt for a similar color or texture. If you like to add a burst of personality, opt for contrast, and consider your kitchen island countertop as an accent piece. Either way, the choice is yours.
Our best advice is to consider how you plan to use your new kitchen island. Countertops made specifically for food prep should be heavily durable and strong. Something along the lines of quartzite or stainless steel offer an excellent food prep surface. Butcher block reminds many of cutting boards, and can add warmth to a room, but remember it will have to be treated and maintained more often than other surfaces.
If you’ve been thinking about adding a kitchen island, we’d be happy to help. Contact us today to discuss options, estimates, and more. Have questions? Give us a call. We’ve helped your friends and neighbors all over the Greater Toledo Ohio area with home improvements. We look forward to adding you to our family of happy customers.