The Map to Kitchen Island Design

Explore islands' endless possibilities and trends for kitchen workspace.

Filed under: Kitchen Island, Kitchens

Good island design follows the general shape of the room.

The farm table provided a much-needed work surface in the kitchen 100 years ago. In today's kitchens, islands perform the same function, as well as adding seating, storage and a personal design statement.

The island currently is the single most popular design element in today's kitchen. It offers endless design possibilities and a wide range of choices in styles and materials.
Islands can help define the kitchen workspace in today's open floor plans by separating the cook from the rest of the room.
Islands are used to help establish the traffic pattern by directing the traffic away from the work triangle.
The island should parallel the shape of the room and have plenty of clearance around all sides.
A variety of appliances and accessories can be built into an island: sink, microwave, dishwasher, trash compactor, cooktop and a warming drawer, which is especially convenient to keep plates and food warm when the island is used for buffets.
Islands can have several levels, depending on function. Counters can be high or dining table height. A raised level above the eating level can hide kitchen mess from the rest of the room.