Kitchen Islands
Smart Design : Episode SDN-202 -- More Projects »
The kitchen has become an important room in the American home--it's the home office, meeting room, entertainment center and dining area. To meet these new needs, a variety of kitchen improvements have happened over the past few years, one of which is the kitchen island: - Kitchen designers and builders have found that an island can be the most versatile and productive surface you can have. They offer a great place to gather and entertain because the latter is more informal today.
- Islands can be any size, shape and color and no two are the same. They're designed to be a direct reflection of what is important to the homeowner both in style and function. Appliances can be installed underneath or auxiliary sinks can be included for easier food preparation.
When choosing the island's countertop, don't be limited by the existing countertops. Choosing a different but complementary material can expand the feel and the functionality of the space. Tiled limestone and granite are harmonious in this kitchen (figure A). If you're planning to install a kitchen island keep a few points in mind. It should be placed at least 36 inches away from any existing counter and 42 inches is preferred if possible. Try to preserve "the triangle"--the linear space between the sink, refrigerator and stove. Leaving it open allows for ease of movement between the three. Before living with a permanent island, tape-off the area for a few weeks first to see how comfortable it will be.
Top two four-foot indoor benches with two five-foot ones for a unique island and connect them from underneath with C-clamps. Fill it with baskets for neat and attractive storage (figure B).
Guests Susan L. Komins
Kitchen Designer, Kitchen and Bath Designs, LLC
Email:
Skomins@Magpage.com
Dina Pavel
Interior Designer, Dina Pavel Design
Phone: 610-664-5300
Also in this Episode
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