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Kitchen aisle ideas


34 ways to create a fabulous and functional feature |

(Image credit: Blakes London / DesignSpaceLondon / Kitty Lee Architecture)

Kitchen island ideas boost the room’s preparation and storage space plus they often add seating, but they have a huge aesthetic impact on the room, too.

They might be sized up in larger kitchens, or of more compact proportions in smaller rooms, but either way kitchen ideas such as the selection of materials, color, shape and more can make an island into an attention-grabbing feature.

An island can also be a brilliant asset when designing a kitchen, separating the working areas from space for family and guests to allow the chef to work safely without being isolated. 

Kitchen island ideas

These kitchen island ideas will help to inspire your choice of size, shape, finish and design, as well as island seating ideas, and create a new addition that will completely transform your cooking space. 

1. Make waves with fluted details 

(Image credit: Kitty Lee Architecture)

Fluting around a kitchen island can be far more than just a decorative surface. In this relatively narrow kitchen by Australia-based Kitty Lee Architecture , ease of movement around the island was crucial and fluting served a practical purpose. 

‘The fluted detail allowed us to create a beautiful feature around a curved form, adding texture, warmth, and contrast to the space, while also improving the traffic flow and ergonomics,’ says director, Kitty Lee. It was created using individual 30mm-wide half-round dowels in Tasmanian oak, which is a dense and resilient hardwood with excellent staining qualities. 

2. Use a waterfall edge for a seamless look 

(Image credit: Malcolm Menzies)

A popular design feature that will elevate any island unit, a ‘waterfall edge’ involves continuing the countertop seamlessly from horizontal to vertical. ‘Deeply veined marbles look particularly fabulous using this technique, especially if you source a slab large enough to allow the veining to flow right down to the floor,’ says Oana Sandu, lead designer, Blakes London . ‘It’s important to think about the flooring and how it will complement your choice of worktop, usually a contrast works best.’

(Image credit: Darren Chung)

Put a statement island firmly in the spotlight with thoughtfully selected light fittings that score highly on both form and function. 

‘Characterful, statement lighting should enhance the drama in the kitchen – not steal the show,’ says Richard Atkins, design director, DesignSpace London . Iconic shapes with revered design heritage are likely to outlast trendy fittings, while swerving standard pendant lineups in favor of off-set positioning is a simple move with impressive results as part of breakfast bar ideas.  

4. Use mixed materials for an interesting finish 

(Image credit: Life Kitchens)

When choosing the right sized island, do consider the impact is has on the countertop installation. ‘Joints can be really obvious on island units that are centrally positioned and designed to be noticed,’ says Graeme Smith, head of retail design, Life Kitchens . Islands longer than 11.5ft (3.5m) usually require two slabs of stone or quartz. ‘Adding timber elements such as chopping blocks or breakfast bars is a good way to mix materials while disguising joints,’ he adds. 

5. Go bold with the choice of materials

(Image credit: Ben Waterhouse)

A bold approach to materials can provide extraordinary results. Formed and cast on site by Kote London , this concrete island is a stand-out feature in an otherwise understated kitchen. ‘We wanted it to feel like a piece of art in the space,’ explains Stephen Nash, founder, All & Nxthing Interiors . ‘Rounding off all the corners improves functionality and flow, while helping to soften the look of what is actually a big and very practical island,’ he adds.

6. Try a T-shaped island for an interesting spin

(Image credit: Darren Chung )

A T-shaped island can avoid one of the classic kitchen island mistakes of going too small in a large room and missing the opportunity to accommodate a host of activities at the heart of the room.

If you opt for an island configuration like this, choose between a conventional table height with chairs for seating for the dining area, or keep this element at the same height as the rest of the island and use barstools as here. With the latter choice, upholstered barstools with backs are the most comfortable option.

(Image credit: Nicholas Yarsley)

A cantilevered bar in solid walnut puts extra wow in this 5m long island conceived by Forbes Rix Design . ‘The floating effect was achieved using a steel box frame structure that was concealed under the countertop and between the cabinets, then bolted to the concrete floor,’ explain Andrew Hall, director, Woodstock Furniture . ‘Not only is it guaranteed to impress, but it also leaves more flooring visible, which boosts the sense of space.’

8. Incorporate show-stopping fixtures and hardware

(Image credit: Amanda Evans Interiors)

Consider every element for a successful kitchen island design. ‘Islands tend to become the home theater of cooking, putting the cook at the center of the layout,’ says Graeme Smith. When all eyes are on the island at meal times, every part of it – from the breakfast bar to smaller details like the appliances and the hardware along with the kitchen island lighting ideas – need to be well-considered design-wise. 

In this kitchen by interior designer Amanda Evans , a showstopping apron-front sink becomes a key feature in the design, emphasizing the rustic roots of the design’s contemporary take on farmhouse style. 

9. Create island seating with a wraparound countertop

(Image credit: Davide Lovatti)

‘Islands bring multiple functional benefits to the kitchen, but they can also help to add character to a design,’ says Smith. ‘Large format materials such as granite and quartz tend to work well for modern kitchen islands.’ 

If you’ve fallen in love with your countertop material, why stop at just one surface? Installing a wraparound countertop will bring the material down the sides of the island, creating a luxurious sense of seamlessness, perfect for a very modern look. Leave the perpendicular side open, and this can work as a space for your island seating, as demonstrated in this example. 

10. Think carefully about walkaround space

(Image credit: Blakes London)

When considering island size, think about the space you’ll need beyond it. 

‘Islands are an eye-catching feature in a kitchen but they can eat up a substantial amount of space,’ says Smith. ‘So when thinking about adding one into design, it is important to consider the available space and the circulation area around the island. 

'Typically, 48in (1200mm) between the cabinetry and island will be needed for a scheme that invites an easy flow.’ 

In this compact kitchen, the island area is maximized, but leaves just the right amount of space for users to move comfortably around its sides. 

11. Mix and match your storage options

(Image credit: Baskerville)

If storage space is at a premium in your kitchen, adding an island into the mix opens up a wealth of possibilities. Incorporate a mixture of cabinets and drawers to allow effortless storage for table and cookware of all shapes and sizes. You can also consider adding open shelving to display some of your most characterful kitchen essentials. 

‘To add a homely touch, opt for an integrated island book-end,’ says Smith. ‘This will free up countertop space and allow for the most loved cookbooks to be put on display for an extra layer of personality.’

12. Add curves

(Image credit: Tom Howley)

Soften a rectangular kitchen island design with a curved breakfast bar on one side. This Tom Howley kitchen island mixes different lines to create an elegant feature at the center of the room, and provides an inviting place for guests to sit.

13. Create different zones

(Image credit: Future/Mark Bolton)

Switching up materials on the surface can help to break up a long kitchen island. This can also be done to help zone different areas, depending on what they might be used for.

For example, a surface used for food prep might be kept as stone, whereas wood might be used for breakfast bar ideas – like in this particular kitchen. 

If you love this neutral style, our white kitchen ideas will bring you more inspiration.

14. Double the seating with an L-shaped breakfast bar

(Image credit: Laura Marin/ Extreme Design)

You've probably seen a fair few L-shaped kitchen ideas, but did you know the format typically used with cabinets can work really well for an island?

Creating an L-shaped breakfast bar with your island can be a handy way of doubling the amount of kitchen island seating within the same kitchen island size and creating a sociable cooking space. 

It also makes serving food and drinks easier, so this design is perfect for those who love to entertain. This design also works well for farmhouse kitchen island ideas, as it adds the sociability that defines this style of kitchen.

15. Think big

(Image credit: Smallbone)

For fluting on a grand scale, look to Smallbone’s Icarus Collection for inspiration. Demonstrating the impact of outsized sculpting in the kitchen, this unique design nods to 1920s glamor via scalloped glass, rich textures and warm tones. A shimmering wash of brushed gold accentuates the curved oak cabinet fronts, while allowing subtle graining to shine through. 

‘The unique curve was achieved using materials technology typically used in the protection zones for cars in F1 motor racing to reinforce and lighten the doors,’ says Smallbone’s ideation director, Iain O’Mahony. ‘The aim was to capture a sense of boundless imagination and craft-led design.’

16. Go long

(Image credit: Future/David Cleveland)

If you're blessed with a lot of space in your kitchen, your kitchen island ideas can be as large as you want.

One way to make your kitchen stand out is to make the island extra long with ample seating – almost reminiscent of a cocktail bar. We love this elongated design, with space for seven, as a modern alternative to a dining room table.

17. Use it to make the cooktop the center of the room

(Image credit: Future/Brent Darby)

By putting the cooktop on a kitchen island, you're helping to make it the central point of the room. This means a person cooking can face the rest of the room (rather than with their back turned) – making it a clever, sociable design feature. It also offers lots of space around your cooker, for food preparation.

We love the blue kitchen cabinetry in this country house in Wiltshire.

18. Add in a work table to create a multi-purpose space

(Image credit: Plain English)

From a functional perspective, a kitchen island provides extra prep space, cutting down the footwork between key areas of sink, cooker and fridge in an open plan kitchen. It also provides a boundary between the work zone of the kitchen and the neighbouring living/dining zone, keeping children and guests from getting under your feet. It is increasingly a work space, too.

'The rise of the "working kitchen" reflects a repurposing of the traditional kitchen and an increased demand for multi-functional spaces,' says Merlin Wright, Design Director at Plain English and British Standard by Plain English.  

'Worktables offer added space and can include clever kitchen storage ideas to hide not only kitchen items but also office paraphernalia. Often they incorporate a seating area with high stools, adding another valuable space to work or relax and helping to zone the kitchen.'

19. Make space for seating at a kitchen island

(Image credit: Neptune)

Almost all kitchen islands incorporate some form of seating. Even the smallest space can usually accommodate an overhang of worktop and a pair or bar stools, although more of us are opting for long islands with integrated low level, table-style seating at one end as a comfortable set up for family meals and entertaining.

'Extra work surface space is high on our wish lists,' says Annie Tullett, Kitchen Designer at Neptune Hove. 'The kitchen layout is vital to creating extra workspace and designing a harmonious flow.'

You can also make your portable kitchen island ideas work even harder for you by incorporating smart designs and appliances for a veritable tech hub, such as hidden power sockets and charging points.

20. Work in a dining table

(Image credit: Martin Moore)

As well as extra workspace, one of the top modern kitchen island ideas right now is the addition of a dining table for a clever space-saving solution. 

Richard Atkins, Design Director at DesignSpace London , says: 'A decade ago, islands were generally only one height: either worktop height or a higher bar level. Now there is much more variation, with different levels for different functions.

'We regularly integrate a table into the island, due to two main reasons: when a living space is more compact and there isn’t the space for a separate dining table, or when clients actively want to eat in close proximity to the kitchen.'

21. Make a display

(Image credit: Martin Moore)

The small finishing details of a kitchen add another layer of depth. Plain English's Merlin Wright explains: 'No longer content with pure practicality, clients are incorporating open kitchen shelving ideas within islands to act as beautiful displays, curated to showcase unique collections – from vintage curiosities and ceramics, to cookery books and glassware – each adding color and personality. '

(Image credit: British Standard by Plain English)

Giving a nod to simple English countryside style and the cottagecore aesthetic, panelling is having something of a moment. 

Merlin Wright at Plain English says: 'The long established love for tongue and groove panelling is more popular than ever. The natural design choice helps to add a tactile and warm feel when used on kitchen island ideas.'

If you love workstations and breakfast bars with a rural flavour, dive into our farmhouse kitchen island ideas, too.

23. Use a kitchen island to introduce new materials

(Image credit: Future)

The change of pace offered by an island often encourages a change of material, introducing another dimension to your kitchen design. You might afford to be braver here with a bolder finish or colorway, or perhaps a more expensive material that would be prohibitive across an entire kitchen. 

‘An island tends to define the kitchen, forming a neat and transparent division to the dining and living space beyond,’ explains Laurence Pidgeon, director at Laurence Pidgeon.

24. Add color with a kitchen island

(Image credit: Martin Moore)

A kitchen island is a fabulous opportunity to incorporate fresh kitchen color ideas.

Laurence Pidgeon says: 'At least the facing part of the island should be in warm and welcoming materials to make a transition from efficient kitchen surfaces. For a show-stopping centerpiece, look to luxury materials, from deeply veined marble and mottled granites to exotic timber veneers and gleaming mirror or burnished metal. 

'There’s also a trend for an increasing use of textured materials – think raw or rough-sawn wood, honed or flamed stone tops – as well as a contrast of color or finish between the island and the rest of the kitchen.'

25. Max out kitchen island storage

(Image credit: Paul Massey)

Kitchen island ideas are a golden opportunity to up the storage space in your kitchen, so ensure you work it into both sides of a deep unit. 

Store seldom used items, accessories you need for dining or even homework related clutter on the outer side of the island, with cooking essentials on the kitchen side.

26. Work two kitchen islands into a larger space

(Image credit: Martin Moore)

If space allows, two kitchen islands is always better than one. Double island kitchens have become the last word in luxury, and they’ll maximize usable countertop area compared to a super-sized single island.

Consider the functions of each island when you’re planning the design: one might be for cooking while the other provides seating, for example.

27. Pick a luxury material for your kitchen island

(Image credit: Humphrey Munson)

As we said above, it’s the time of strongly veined marble. ‘Deep veins are a key trend in island surfaces, and marbling comes in lots of colors. Consider seeking out greener tones, which are calming and sophisticated,’ says Sarah Spiteri, editorial director at Homes & Gardens. 

28. Add in a wine cabinet

(Image credit: Davide Lovati)

A few years ago, wine cabinets were considered a luxury appliance, available only to those with big budgets and big kitchens to match. These days however, as prices and sizes have reduced, there’s something to suit every scheme and size. 

Wine coolers built into a kitchen island are a great investment, as they will free-up space in the refrigerator as well as the worktop while keeping your wine in optimum condition. 

If you enjoy entertaining, friends and family can help themselves to a glass while you get on with the cooking. As our kitchens become more like theaters, with island cooking becoming more popular, it makes sense to have a wine cabinet to complete the performance.

29. Light your kitchen island

(Image credit: Naked Kitchens)

Kitchen island lighting is a really important element of its design and should be planned in right at the beginning of your kitchen design journey. 

If you do go for pendants, like in the stylish kitchen above, bear in mind that odd numbers are more visually arresting than even numbers.

30. Devote budget to book-matching

(Image credit: Cullifords)

A stunning slab of stone can be showcased in several ways around an island.  

Bookmatching, where slices of stone reflect their neighbors, or slip-matching, which uses stone slices to produce a continuous effect, are effective techniques but, where possible, a seamless piece of stone mounted across the front of a unit is especially awe-inspiring.

31. Consider deep drawers for a streamlined look

(Image credit: Roundhouse)

Swap cabinets for drawers in a kitchen island if you like sleek modern kitchen ideas. Like these versions, drawers can be generously sized to offer excellent storage for a whole range of kitchen essentials and, because they’re pull out, everything is easy to access.

32. Pick a material that matches your home's fabric

(Image credit: Paul Massey)

If your kitchen is dominated by a particular feature that's part of your home's architecture – whether a marble fire surround or aged wooden beams, as in the cottage kitchen above – picking a material for your kitchen island that complements or mimics it will create a look that's streamlined, sleek and calm.  

However, it is important to work at least one element of contrast into the room – here, the rough plaster of the white walls offers the relief.

33. Be flexible with a mobile island

(Image credit: Future)

Kitchen islands needn't be fixed pieces of furniture – freestanding or portable kitchen islands are a versatile choice that allow you to flex your kitchen layout over time, or to create a more relaxed look that's the antithesis of the fitted finish. 

These kitchen islands are unlikely to house appliances or electrical points – instead they are purely for prep and eating, storage and, of course, display. Put yours on casters if you want it to be truly mobile.

34. Go for an island with fluted details

(Image credit: Malcolm Menzies)

A modern twist on traditional fluting, ribbed designs take a more angular, geometric direction. The surface of this island by Blakes London features drawers with deep battened fronts. 

‘The deeper the battens the more dramatic the aesthetic,’ says lead designer Magnus Nilsson. ‘Bear in mind that battening will add weight to drawer fronts. Here we added weights at the back for balance and a smooth experience when opening the drawers.’ Magnus took the vertical detail up a level by incorporating a stripe into the liquid brass painted wall units – adding a touch of ritzy glamor.

Is a kitchen island a good idea?

‘Even in small kitchens, a kitchen island is a fantastic way to maximize space, as you can make it as multi-functional as possible by incorporating integrated appliances and smart storage solutions,’ says Darren Watts, Showroom Development and Design Director at Wren Kitchens.

‘The kitchen is the heart of the home social life, and it’s important to consider the comfort of the cook. Integrating cooking appliances into the island puts them at the centre of the action – even better if there is space for bar-style seating too so guests can socialise while the food is prepared,' adds Daniel Bowler, Director of Eggersmann UK.

Is my kitchen too small for an island?

If you don't have a lot of space, you might be thinking your kitchen is too small for an island – but this may not be the case.

‘It is all about proportions and practicality; the room needs to work ergonomically and have enough space to move around. For example, to incorporate seating on an island, we would suggest a minimum of 1.2m between a breakfast bar and a wall or furniture,’ says Richard. 

Don’t install an island for the sake of it; they have to play a vital role in cooking efficiency (preferably multiple roles) and not get in the way. Try using a table or even boxes to block out the space for a few days – it’s a great way to work out how an island will impact the room’s flow.

(Image credit: Plain English)

What color kitchen islands are on trend for 2023?

The kitchen island colors on trend vary depending on your kitchen's look.  

For painted kitchens, dark blues and grays are ideal for kitchen islands, helping to add depth to an otherwise plain design. While more modern schemes include burnished metal trims and handles alongside clean white and gray kitchen cabinet ideas.

Look out for an embracing of earthy reds and rich grassy green kitchens. These are paired with burnished brass and soft gold finishes for handles and trim. 

Texture is in abundance, too. Fluted cabinetry echoes the fluted glass we’re seeing in designs from companies such as Ledbury Studio – the new company led by kitchen supremo Charlie Smallbone.

Faux marble worktops with waterfall edges encasing an island are also proving increasingly popular, pairing pattern with an easy-to-clean durable surface.

Jennifer is the Digital Editor at Homes & Gardens. Having worked in the interiors industry for a number of years, spanning many publications, she now hones her digital prowess on the 'best interiors website' in the world. Multi-skilled, Jennifer has worked in PR and marketing, and the occasional dabble in the social media, commercial and e-commerce space. Over the years, she has written about every area of the home, from compiling design houses from some of the best interior designers in the world to sourcing celebrity homes, reviewing appliances and even the odd news story or two.

With contributions from

62 Kitchen Island Ideas You'll Want to Copy

By

Farima Ferguson

Farima Ferguson

Farima Ferguson began her career at HGTV where she worked with designers to write about home design. Her work has appeared in HGTV, Insider Reviews, Travel Channel, and more.

Learn more about The Spruce's Editorial Process

Updated on 05/11/22

The Spruce / Christopher Lee Foto

The kitchen is oftentimes the heart of the home. It's where you and your family fuel up for the day, make memories during the holidays, entertain friends and family, and celebrate life's big moments during get-togethers.

Get Inspired by These Kitchen Island Ideas You'll Want to Copy

At the center of the kitchen is the kitchen island, the part of the room that provides an extra spot for meal prepping, cooking, gathering for casual meals or coffee breaks, and even extra storage space. Aside from all its practical uses, the island can also serve as a decorative focal point of the room. We've gathered our top kitchen island ideas, from big to small and simple to over-the-top to help inspire your kitchen design.

The Best Kitchen Islands for Stylish Storage

These Are the Best Brands of Paint for Kitchen Cabinets to Update Your Style

how to make a convenient layout - INMYROOM

Tips

At what height to hang a cabinet, what threatens the proximity of the stove and refrigerator, where to place the bar counter - together with a specialist, we analyze these and other nuances of a competent kitchen layout

In a modern house, the kitchen plays no less an important role - and sometimes the most important - than other rooms in the apartment. When choosing a kitchen set, it is important to think not only about the aesthetic side, but also about convenience and basic safety. By rationalizing the placement of equipment, time savings of up to 30% can be achieved, and travel distances of more than 50%. Stepan Bugaev, art director of Pobeda Design studio, told us what to look for when planning a kitchen properly. nine0003

Stepan Bugaev

EXPERT

Permanent contributor to InMyRoom, founder of Tochka Design bureau, lecturer at HSE School of Design.

Planning is key

When choosing your kitchen layout, always keep your personal needs in mind – what is convenient for your friends and acquaintances may not necessarily be useful for you. The layout can be single-row, two-row, L-shaped, U-shaped, island - each of them has its own advantages and features.

Single-row kitchen layout is one of the most popular, suitable for both small and large spaces. The minimum width of the kitchen is 1.7–1. 8 meters . Place the most important work areas from right to left (mirror for left-handed people) against one wall. The sink is usually installed in the center of the row, the stove and refrigerator at the edges - this allows you to make activities in the kitchen less energy-intensive.

For a through room kitchen, the two-row construction option is considered optimal - place the work areas in parallel at two opposite walls. On one side from floor to ceiling, place closed shelves, and on the other side - a food preparation area. For a comfortable passage, the distance between rows should be not less than 120 cm and not more than 165 cm.

Furniture placement in the form of the letter "L" is suitable for a medium-sized room. With such a layout, convenience and comfortable work in the kitchen is guaranteed to you. A feature of the L-shaped construction is the protection of the working triangle from through traffic - even in a situation where the kitchen is a walk-through room.

If you have a separate dining area and don't need to leave room for a dining table in the kitchen, U-shaped arrangement is your choice. Also, this type of arrangement of kitchen furniture is suitable for studio apartments - you will be able to make the transition from the kitchen to the living room smooth and expedient. And an additional workplace by the window will please any hostess. nine0003

At arm's length

Consider the shortest possible path from the refrigerator to the work surfaces, then to the sink and stove. This will make it easier for the hostess to move around the kitchen with groceries and create more comfort for cooking.

If you connect three main elements with lines: a refrigerator, a sink and a stove, you will get a working triangle. The sum of its sides should not exceed 6 meters. Keep a distance of at least 40 cm between the stove and the sink so that splashes of water do not extinguish the fire. This space can be occupied by a countertop. nine0003

Unobstructed

Each piece of kitchen equipment has its own “opening zone”. It is important to take this into account when planning the kitchen to ensure free movement and convenient use of the kitchen set and household appliances. For example, to work with an oven, leave at least 110 cm in front of it, but in front of a kitchen cabinet with drawers, you can put a table after 90 cm .

Please note that an open dishwasher takes up more space than other household appliances - so that the hostess can freely load and remove dishes, there should be 100 cm unoccupied area.

Safety in mind

The kitchen is a place where safety must not be forgotten even for a minute. When arranging equipment, keep in mind that the stove or hob should be located away from the aisle so that occupants cannot touch hot pots and pans. Do not place the stove in a corner close to a wall or next to a refrigerator - leave at least 30 cm between them .

The distance from the stove to the window must be at least 45 cm , otherwise there is a great risk of blowing out a fire or a curtain fire. The placement of the hood also has its own nuances: it will work most efficiently if it is placed at a distance of 70–75 cm from an electric stove or 75–80 cm from a gas stove.

For the convenience of the hostess

The working surface should be located in such a way that the hostess does not get tired of her back during work. The stove, sink, lower cabinets should be located at the same height of the countertop, which directly depends on the height of the hostess: for a woman with a height of 170 cm, the optimal value is 85 cm .

When planning a set, think: is it convenient to bend down to the bottom cabinet or reach for the top shelf? Store heavy dishes and bulky items in the lower cabinets, as they will be easier to get from there. It is also very important to place the top drawers at an acceptable height - at least 45 cm .

Universal island

The island complements the layout of the kitchen - making it whole and complete. This type of layout creates a lot of options for creating an optimal "work triangle" - bring a work surface to the island with a stove or sink, or use it as an additional table. nine0003

The optimal height of the working surface of the island is 90 cm , this is the size that will be convenient for most family members. Raise one edge of the table top to a height of 120–130 cm to create a comfortable bar counter.

9 principles for planning a modern kitchen - INMYROOM

Before you go to the store for a set and household appliances, decide what dimensions should be observed for aisles and doorways, guests sitting at the table and comfortable use of household appliances. nine0003

Professional decorator, artist and blogger Oksana Panteleeva took the recommendations of the National Kitchen & Bath Association as a basis and supplemented them with practical advice.

Oksana Panteleeva

DECORATOR

Every day she remodels and repaints something in her apartment and shares it in her blog “On the wave of decor”

not less than 80 cm

. At the same time, nothing should prevent them from opening freely.

Russian manufacturers offer standard door leaf sizes: 1900×550 mm, 1900×600 mm, 2000×600 mm, 2000×700 mm, 2000×800 mm, 2000×900 mm. Consider this when choosing the door itself and when arranging furniture next to it.

All doors must open without touching each other

Not only entrance doors, but also doors of cabinets and household appliances must open freely. Therefore, it is better that they do not interfere with each other. nine0003

For example, if you put a refrigerator in a corner, very often it interferes with the full opening of the door. Due to this neighborhood, the door handle can damage the kitchen facade or household appliances. If there is no way to avoid obstacles, take care of the limiters.

When kitchen furniture is arranged in two rows, the distance between the rows must be such that all doors open without hitting each other.

Leave space inside the working triangle

The distance between the "heights of the triangle" - refrigerator, sink and hob - should not be less than 1.2 m or more than 2.7 m .

INMYROOM Tip: In order not to rack your brains and manually redraw the layout of kitchen cabinets and appliances, use convenient online planners.

For example, from the German brand Nolte Kuchen , you can choose the type of kitchen set to fit your kitchen, try on cabinets and countertops, and build in all the necessary appliances. nine0111

Do not separate the work surface

The work surface - kitchen worktop - must not intersect with large non-mobile cabinets, household appliances and other objects. If possible, you should leave it alone, and install a sideboard or refrigerator to the right or left of the countertop.

If the kitchen is walk-through, take this into account in the plan

It happens that the kitchen is a passage between rooms or part of the living room and dining room. It is worth noting on the plan where the people's routes will pass, and excluding the working triangle from this space. It's better if those who just passed by don't get hit. nine0003

Leave space for work

Keep at least 110 cm inside the "working triangle" if one person works in the kitchen, and at least 120 cm if you usually cook with two people. Do not confuse workspace and aisle. So much space is needed for the one who cooks to move freely and use appliances and kitchen furniture.

...and passage space

Minimum recommended passage width is 90 cm . But if two “paths” pass through the kitchen, perpendicular to each other, then it is recommended to leave 110 cm for their intersection.

Leave room for a passage near the table

If the kitchen has a dining table or bar, then for a comfortable meal, leave at least 80 cm in front of them.

Learn more