For anyone buying, building or remodeling their home, the kitchen island is among the most sought-after amenities. And why not? Kitchens with islands are admired as much for their form as their function.
They often serve as the centerpiece of the most important room in the house, a structure that anchors and defines the space. They’re also incredibly practical, providing extra counter space, additional cooking tools and an area around which friends and family can gather.
Source: Shawn St.Peter Photography via Houzz
Yes, everyone wants an island in their kitchen, so everyone should consider these factors when determining which type of island to install:
The Size
The size of your island might be the most important decision you make. It needs to be big enough to meet your needs, but not so big that it encumbers your ability to cook, congregate and converse. In general, you should have at least 36 inches of clearance on all sides of the island.
The Shape
There is no “right” shape for an island—it depends on the size of your kitchen and how you plan to use it. The most important factor when deciding the shape of the island is convenience. Just make sure the shape works for you and your family.
The Amenities
Islands are a great way to add features to your kitchen that are lacking (like a pull-out cutting board or extra storage space) or features that make your life just a little bit easier (like a prep-sink, hooks for hanging towels or even a built-in microwave or mini-fridge).
The Seating
Not every kitchen island needs seating, but it is a nice feature if you entertain a lot. If you do decide to make your island amenable to seating, consider the type of stools or chairs you plan to use and have your island fabricated accordingly to accommodate the proper height and legroom requirements.
The Kitchen Countertop Materials
Decisions about which kitchen countertop materials are important. Base them on what you already have in your kitchen if you’re remodeling, how you’ll use the counters if you’re building something new. And always consider the overall look and feel. Natural stone like granite, marble, quartz and soapstone are functional and fantastic-looking kitchen countertop materials.
If you’re buying, building or remodeling your home, make sure to consider all of your kitchen island options—and then contact Arch City Granite & Marble to create just the right island for you and your family.