Gone are the days when kitchens were merely used for cooking meals. Today’s kitchen is where new recipes get tested, the  family gathers, and friends are entertained. Your kitchen renovation contractor must design a functional kitchen not just a pretty one. And a kitchen island is a must for functionality.

The Function of the Kitchen Island

Islands can be used for several functions.  So start by deciding the job of your kitchen island. If the island is for cooking, you must include space for appliances like oven, cooktop, and necessary ventilation. If you want it for a prepping station, a large and clear surface with a prep sink and dishwasher will do. On the other hand, your island may extend the eating and seating areas in the house. 

Kitchen Renovation Contractor Tips for Island Design

 The main concern with design is space. Without enough room, the island is an obstruction that might prevent access to major work areas like sink, fridge, and cooktop. Always start by considering the existing space constraints of the kitchen before considering appliances and features. The island must be proportional to the kitchen size.  Just because you have a large space, doesn’t you should have a large kitchen island. Right size the island in your design to avoid wasting space. 

Consider the Aisle Space

To work well in the kitchen, you need easy access to counters and other work spaces. Avoid traffic jams.  Demarcate the space for the island and then measure the distance to the kitchen counters. Ideally, you should have an aisle of around 40 inches. In a small space you can go as low as 35 inches but that’s the minimum. Don’t put too much space between the counters and the island either. That requires too many steps to be efficient. 

Incorporate Storage Space

Contemporary kitchen islands should have proper storage units and smart cabinets, so the kitchen stays neat and organized, while ensuring you have everything required within reach. The choice of shelving units and cabinets has to be determined as per the specific needs of the kitchen. If you have limited space, there are fold-away inserts and drawers with extra depth that make up for the lack of room.

Determine Your Island Surface

Popular island top materials like marble look elegant. While the island surface should match the other surfaces, it doesn’t have to be the same.

For example, if you are using the island for food prep, consider a butcher block top. For any easy to clean and long-lasting surface, go for stainless steel. If the island is a cooking station, opt for easy to care for surfaces like quartz and select appliances that match the rest of the kitchen.  This kitchen island surface is beautiful and beautifully contrasts with the other countertops.

Inspired Remodels is the Kitchen Renovator Contractor that Turns Island Dreams into Reality

When you’re ready to stop dreaming of a new island and start using one, call Inspired Remodels. Let Orange County’s finest kitchen renovation contractor design a kitchen island that is functional, beautiful and a welcome member of your home for years to come. Call (949) 716-1938 or Contact Us online today.