Are you planning to add a custom kitchen island to your kitchen renovation project? You’re not alone. It’s one of the most common requests from homeowners. Whether you’re trying to maximize storage space or use it as a gathering space, here is a list of questions to remember when you’re planning to update your kitchen.
How much space do you require for your countertops and the kitchen island?
An open kitchen should be at least 42 inches, or 3.5 feet, of space across the island. If that sounds to be a lot, we’ll explain. The primary purpose of an island in the kitchen is to serve as a workspace. Therefore, it is essential to have enough space to move and pivot while cooking food or opening up your kitchen cabinets and making room for the table in your kitchen. It isn’t a good idea for the island to block the workflow between your sink, refrigerator, or oven and your stovetop.
What size ought a kitchen island to be?
Custom-designed islands are available in various sizes. A kitchen island typically measures four feet long by two feet wide. If you’re using it for eating, raise the height to 42 inches from the regular 36 inches. Make sure to include the bar stool for dining since you must allow at minimum two feet of space to avoid the room being too cramped.
Should the kitchen island contain the cooktop or the sink?
A custom island for your kitchen is an excellent location for a stove or sink with a built-in faucet when you have space. Having more freedom when you spend long hours cooking is also beneficial. On a stove, it gets recommended to keep 12 inches on either side and 9 inches behind for safety. Consider installing a downdraft vent hood or fan for proper ventilation when you grill or fry. Consider if it will be your primary sink for food preparation or one for bar use. A sink for food preparation should be 16 inches by 16 inches and 8 inches in depth. Adding a built-in appliance may enhance the utility of your kitchen island. However, storing your cabinets and counter area may be more challenging.
What shape should the kitchen island have?
Kitchen islands come in a variety of sizes and shapes. Taking into account the size of your kitchen and how you want to use it is one of the best ways to choose the condition of your custom island. Galley kitchen islands are the simplest form and require the least space. Other custom alternatives include circular or half-moon kitchen islands, which demand more room but are an excellent choice for several cooks or large family gatherings. There are different shapes, like the L-shaped island in the kitchen and a U-shaped island, that both need more space than the galley kitchen island. However, they offer more space for custom-designed counters, cabinet seating, and the possibility of a sink or cooktop. Consider your desires for usability while deciding on the design of the appropriate island.
Will my home’s design complement the new kitchen island design?
The last item you wish to do when upgrading is get installed on a new kitchen island that doesn’t match the style of your house or put a large kitchen island in a small kitchen. A fashionable custom kitchen island that complements your home’s overall decor can get created when you collaborate with a custom kitchen contractor. A kitchen renovation specialist will ensure the right features are in place based on how you utilize your house and kitchen.
What are the advantages of a kitchen island?
There are apparent advantages of a kitchen island:
- More counter space
- Additional kitchen storage
- A dining space
- There is potential for space to install an application or sink.
Most importantly, we want you to picture a kitchen where you can chat with your loved ones while you cook or work on your children’s homework on the island. Adding your dream kitchen island can transform your living and entertaining space.
While a custom-made kitchen island with cabinets may only be ideal for some kitchens, we’re here if you’re in the middle or want an expert’s opinion. Set up a consultation with Ottawa Home Pros by calling (613) 288-9145 or sending an email to info@ottawahomepros.com to talk about incorporating a custom kitchen island into your kitchen remodeling project.
