Kitchen island width standard

Kitchen Island Dimensions | Best Height, Width & Depth

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Posted on: December 28, 2020

Kitchen islands have become somewhat standard in many homes. They are convenient and add aesthetic appeal to the space. These design highlights don’t work for every kitchen — however, some kitchens are simply too small for an island.

So, what are the right kitchen island dimensions? Is there a standard kitchen island size? How tall should my kitchen island be? Find out below!

How tall should a kitchen island be?

Is your kitchen island used for mainly food preparation and cooking? Thirty-six inches is a recommended standard height for a kitchen island. Seating at a 36-inch-high island is somewhere between a typical kitchen table seat and typical bar stools. Some professionals recommend 42 inches for an island that will be used mainly for seating and eating.

How wide should a kitchen island be?

Many kitchen islands are about 2 or 3 feet wide, but if you need more counter space, seating space, etc. , you can go a little larger. Budget around 7 feet if you want a cooktop or sink in the island.

How deep should a kitchen island be?

A kitchen island should be at least 2 feet deep. Leave enough room on all sides to move around — 3 feet of floor space on the ends of the island is good.

Can kitchen islands be taller than counters?

It is actually very common for kitchen islands to be taller than standard kitchen counters. The advantage of this increase in height is that it can conceal any clutter or dirty dishes from view. This is a good option to consider if you have a very open floor plan.

The kitchen island height can also act as a room divider, separating the kitchen from the rest of the space. The raised island also allows for family and guests to interact with the cook without actually being in the “work area.”

What is the difference between a kitchen island and a peninsula?

Both kitchen structures are named after the geographical features they align with. An island is a free-standing space with four open sides, while a peninsula has one end attached to a wall or other structure, with three open sides.

How do you create your dream kitchen island?

The island can be the heart and central hub of your kitchen, but it needs to be the right size. Think “Goldilocks and the Three Bears” meets custom kitchen design. Too small and it won’t function the way it should; too big and it can hinder traffic flow and decrease overall efficiency — it needs to be just right. Ultimately, the dimensions of a kitchen island will depend on how it’s being used.

Should your kitchen island match your cabinets?

Your kitchen island does not have to match. Although matching your kitchen island to surrounding cabinets and countertops creates symmetry within a kitchen, using different cabinet colors or different countertops can turn an island into a beautiful focal point that complements the rest of your kitchen.

Other Kitchen Island Design Tips

Islands can be great places for extra storage! Two 24-inch base cabinets back to back can accommodate most under-island storage.
Two-tiered kitchen islands can be great for multiple functions. For instance, you can use the lower level for food prep and the higher level for eating (with tall bar stools or chairs).
If you do a lot of cooking, an island with a second sink or stove may be ideal.

Ready to design a kitchen island in Maryland, Northern Virginia, or DC? We’d love to be your design partner! Call us at 301-363-4064 for a consultation.

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Kitchen Island Size Guidelines - Designing Idea

Here we share kitchen island size guidelines including how to determine dimensions and select the right size island for your design layout.

Kitchen islands are a hugely sought after feature in the home. It has become an integral part of the kitchen where one can work or prepare food, store appliances or utensils and do special tasks like baking. Additionally, the kitchen island has also become a “social hub” at home, where family and friends can gather, chat and enjoy meals together. While in terms of design, it is often used as the focal point of a kitchen interior.

If you plan on making this multi-functional built-in a part of your home, it is important to know and follow the necessary measurements, recommended dimensions and standard sizes in designing it. Ensuring that your kitchen island follows these requirements do not only help in achieving a pleasing aesthetic, but also a well planned layout which helps provide a smooth and effective work flow in the space.

Below we give you complete instructions for kitchen island size guidelines to help you plan and design the best one for your home.

Table of Contents

How To Choose The Best Kitchen Island Size

While there is a list of recommendations for the standard measurements and dimensions of kitchen islands, there are many possibilities when it comes to its shape, size and layout.
There are several factors which you need to consider in choosing which kitchen island size is the best fit for your home:

Size of Your Kitchen

The number 1 factor that you have to keep in mind when choosing the best kitchen island size for your home is square footage — in fact, these two are directly proportional with each other. An island’s size is primarily determined by the distances around it — so obviously, larger rooms can allow for bigger kitchen islands. Not all layouts can accommodate large kitchen islands with seating. In some cases, a compact prep island is all you can put in a small kitchen.

Relative to your kitchen’s size is scale. Whether your kitchen is small or large, you have to consider scale. A large kitchen island, for obvious reasons, will look more balanced if placed in a large space. Even if you follow the standard dimensions, if you put a tiny island in a very spacious kitchen, it can look off and dwarfed. By contrast, a large island can crowd a compact kitchen.

Layout or Shape of Your Kitchen

The size of your island is also dependent on the layout of your kitchen. The layout of your kitchen — whether U shaped, L shaped, galley or one-wall, will help you determine whether adding an island to your space will be effective or obstructing.

An island is more likely suitable for kitchens that are U shaped and L shaped. However, they will also work in one-wall layouts, provided that the surrounding space is large enough. Galley kitchens, or those that consist of two rows of cabinets facing each other creating an inner passage between them, may not be able to accommodate an island.

It is also significant to consider the layout and the existing conditions of your kitchen to ensure that all the needed clearances will work.

Function of Your Kitchen Island

If you have the luxury of space in your home, another basis which you can use for the size of your kitchen island is its intended function. How do you plan to use your island?

Do you plan on using it as a prep station? A prep island can be as simple as an extra, blank countertop space where you can chop vegetables and prepare other ingredients for cooking. Do you need an integrated sink in the island for washing your hands and produce? If you are into baking, you can use it for kneading dough too. You can also add a butcher’s block if you like.

Do you plan on including seating? A bar island can be used for enjoying simple meals, snacks or even a cup of coffee. If you do not have a dedicated home office at home, a kitchen island with seating can also be utilized as a workspace or study area.

The kitchen island offers a lot of forms and functions. If you plan on using it as an ultimate multi-functional unit for all the functions enumerated above, you might need to choose a more expansive kitchen island size for your home.

Kitchen Island Size Guidelines Design Tip : If your kitchen is less than 13 feet wide, we do not recommend adding an island to the space. There must at least be 10 feet , 3 meters or 120 inches of open space to accommodate an island without making the space feel too cramped.

Standard Kitchen Island Size

● How wide should a kitchen island be? The standard width of a kitchen island is 2 feet or 24 inches or 60 centimeters. Some islands are also 3 feet wide, but if you need more space for dining or food preparation, you can go for something a bit larger. If you are planning on adding a cook top and a sink on the island, you will need a kitchen island width of approximately 7 feet or 84 inches or 213 centimeters.

● How deep should a kitchen island be? The standard depth of a kitchen island is 2 feet or 24 inches or 60 centimeters.

● What is the standard height of a kitchen island? The standard height of a kitchen island is 91 centimeters or 36 inches. This is the recommended height if the kitchen island will be used primarily for food preparation and cooking. If you intend to use your kitchen island for dining, raise the height to 106.68 centimeters or 42 inches.

How to Determine Kitchen Island Dimensions

● How much space do you need between an island and a counter? Clearances and distances between furniture pieces and built-ins are important in planning interiors because they help ensure an efficient work flow in the space. If you do not leave enough room on all sides, you won’t be able to move around easily in the space.

You need to have a distance of at least one meter or 40 inches between the main kitchen work counter / cabinets and the kitchen island. This ensures that you can walk around the island easily and at the same time allows for at least two persons to use the space comfortably at the same time (one person can still walk behind another person standing in the front of the island). A one meter clearance also ensures that all cabinets can be opened easily without any limitation and obstruction.

When looking at kitchen island size guidelines for tight spaces, the lowest amount of clearance that you can go for is 90 centimeters or 35 inches. You can push this to 80 centimeters or 31 inches, only if you plan on installing a minimum sized island (1 meter x 1 meter). On the other hand, there is also such a thing as too much distance between an island and the main kitchen counter. For example,having a clear distance of 1.5 meters or 60 inches can feel a bit off in the space and will also lessen the efficiency of the work flow since you have to take a few more steps to travel from one workstation to another.

● How much clearance do you need around a kitchen island? In reference to the required distance between an island and the main kitchen counter, the same standard applies to the amount of clearance that you need around it (the island). Clearances help with traffic patterns, work flows, work triangles and accessibility. There must be at least one meter or 40 inches clear space around the kitchen island to ensure a comfortable work and traffic flow in the space.

If you do not keep the surrounding space of your island proportionate to the island’s dimensions, you risk creating an inefficient workflow in the space. Whether the clearance zone is too big or too small, it will be hard to move around it. Clearances that are wider than 120 centimeters, 1.2 meters or 47 inches is too much and not user friendly.

● How much space do you need per person for seating at a kitchen island? For comfortable seating on a kitchen island, you need to take into consideration the amount of space you allot for each person who’s going to use it. A good general rule to follow is to have at least an adequate space of 60 centimeters or 24 inches per person to allow for enough elbow room. This also ensures that the users can sit comfortably and use the island without bumping into each other.

If your kitchen has a limited area, the least amount of space that you can allot is 50 centimeters or 19.685 inches per person. This is also adequate if the seating will be used primarily by kids. Anything less than 50 centimeters will be uncomfortable to use.

● How much overhang should a kitchen island have for seating? The overhang is the part of a kitchen countertop which extends to cover the under cabinets and drawers This prevents any spills, crumbs or other stuff from falling off the countertop and damaging the cabinets below. For kitchen islands, the overhang is the part of the countertop which extends to the side where the seating is located. An overhang is ideal if you want a breakfast bar on your island, where you can enjoy some snacks and simple meals.

Having enough space for the island’s overhang is important because it ensures that there is enough leg room for the sitting person and also makes sure that there is sufficient space where you can tuck your bar stools under.

The standard overhang for kitchen island countertops is 30 centimeters or 12 inches. You can go for a lower amount of overhang, depending on the type of bar stools used. The minimum amount of overhang for some types of seating is 20 centimeters or 7.87 inches. If you have more space, you can adjust this to 45 centimeters or 18 inches so you don’t have to pull the stools far into the aisle for more knee room. However, having a bigger overhang means you will be needing extra supports for the kitchen island such as legs or L shaped brackets.

In addition to these standards, custom kitchen islands may have different overhang measurements depending on their thicknesses. The thicker the countertop is, the larger the unsupported overhang can be. Countertops that are 12mm thick can only have a maximum 20 centimeters or 7.87 inches unsupported overhang, while 20mm thick designs can have an overhang of a maximum 25 centimeters or 10 inches. Thicker countertops which are 30mm in size, can go for the standard 30 centimeters or 12 inches unsupported overhang.

Average Kitchen Island Size

Here are kitchen island size guidelines for the average kitchen island sizes which you can use when designing your home:

● Average Kitchen Island Size -The average size of a kitchen island is 1 meter x 2 meters (100 cm x 200 cm or 40 inches x 80 inches). This would typically have a surrounding clearance zone of 1 meter. This kitchen island size is enough space for prep work like cutting, slicing, cleaning fresh produce and kneading dough for baking. An average sized kitchen island can also accommodate a small 18 inch sink.

● Typical Kitchen Island Size Guidelines- Although there is an average size for kitchen islands, they come in different typical sizes. Here are some of its common dimensions:

Prep islands without seating
– 24 inches W x 24 inches D x 36 inches H (60cm D x cm D x 90cm H)
– 36 inches W x 24 inches D x 36 inches H (90cm D x 60cm D x 90cm H)
– 48 inches W x 24 inches D x 36 inches H (120cm D x 60cm D x 90cm H)
– 60 inches W x 24 inches D x 36 inches H (150cm D x 60cm D x 90cm H)
– 72 inches W x 24 inches D x 36 inches H (180cm D x 60cm D x 90cm H)
– 84 inches Wx 24 inches D x 36 inches H (210cm D x 60cm D x 90cm H)

*height may vary up to 42 inches (105 centimeters)

Kitchen Island with bar stool seating (overhang included):
– 48 inches W x 36 inches D x 36 inches H (120cm D x 90cm D x 90cm H)
– 72 inches W x 36 inches D x 36 inches H (180cm D x 90cm D x 90cm H)
– 96 inches W x 36 inches D x 36 inches H (240cm D x 90cm D x 90cm H)
– 120 inches W x 36 inches D x 36 inches H (300cm D x 90cm D x 90cm H)
– 144 inches W x 36 inches D x 36 inches H (360cm D x 90cm D x 90cm H)

*depth can vary anywhere from 8 inches to 18 inches (20 cm to 45 cm)
*height may vary up to 42 inches or 105 centimeters

Minimum Kitchen Island Size

Although there is an average kitchen island, you can still find a way to squeeze in a compact island in a small kitchen, provided that the proper clearances are observed. The recommended minimum size of a kitchen island is 1 meter x 1 meter or 40 inches x 40 inches. Despite being small, this kitchen island size will still allow for a practical prep space. You also have the option of integrating appliances to the layout. Anything smaller than the minimum may be hard to work on and less functional.

The typical clearance for a minimum sized kitchen island is 80 centimeters or 31 inches — which is just suitable for one user of the space. This is the smallest possible distance for a compact kitchen island, to allow for a safe and unobstructed passage.

Kitchen Island Sizes Based on the Number of Seating

One of the most common features of a kitchen island is a space for bar stool seating. A lot of homeowners envision their kitchen islands as the social hub of their home, where they can enjoy simple meals together as a family and entertain friends.

The number of seating that you intend to include on your kitchen island also plays a significant role in determining its (kitchen island) size. A kitchen island isn’t “one size fits all”. It is important to know the different recommended kitchen island sizes to ensure that each of the users can move freely without bumping into each other while dining.

How do you compute for the kitchen island size based on the number of seating? We have mentioned earlier in this article that there must be at least 60 centimeters or 24 inches allotted for each person in a kitchen island to allow for enough elbow room. However, by using kitchen islands with bench seating one may be able to accommodate more diners.

Keeping this measurement in mind, let’s now do the math:

● If you are designing and installing a new kitchen island : To get the right kitchen island width, simply multiply 60 centimeters by the number of persons you want to seat on the kitchen island.
For example, if you want to seat three people you should be looking at having an island width of around 180 centimeters (60 cm x 3 persons = 180 cm).

● If you already have an existing kitchen island and want to know how many seats can you fit in it : First, measure your existing kitchen island and take note of its width and then divide the kitchen island width by 60 centimeters.

For example, if you have a kitchen island with a width of 2.4 meters, this means you can put 4 chairs in it. ( 240 cm / 60 cm= 4 persons).

Standard Kitchen Island Sizes Based On Seating

The recommended overall depth for kitchen islands with seating is 90 centimeters or 36 inches. Simply put, this is the resulting measurement you get when the standard depth ( 60 cm or 24 inches) and the standard overhang (30 cm or 12 inches) are combined.

Here is a list of the standard kitchen island size guidelines based on seating:

Kitchen Island Size For 2 Stools

The standard size for an island with two stools is 120 centimeters (48 inches) width x 90 centimeters depth (36 inches)

Kitchen Island Size For 3 Stools

The standard size for an island with three stools is 180 centimeters (72 inches) width x 90 centimeters depth (36 inches)

Kitchen Island Size For 4 Stools

The standard size for an island with four stools is 240 centimeters (96 inches) width x 90 centimeters depth (36 inches)

Kitchen Island Size For 6 Stools

The standard size for an island with six stools is 360 centimeters (144inches) width x 90 centimeters depth (36 inches)

For more related designs visit our page about the types of kitchen islands.

Kitchen design with an island: 11 tips + photos

Contents of the article

The kitchen island was originally used in kitchens in public catering establishments. The table standing in the middle of the kitchen room allowed several chefs to cook dishes at the same time and not interfere with each other. Why are kitchen islands now actively used in ordinary apartments and houses? The answer lies on the surface. You can't even imagine how convenient and functional it is! Of course, a kitchen island is not the most versatile piece of furniture. Kitchen design with an island requires a serious and balanced approach. We have collected all the most valuable tips from professionals and inspiring photos to help you decide whether you need a kitchen island, and if so, what size, shape and functionality to prefer.

#1. Who would like a kitchen with an island?

An island is a table that stands at a distance from the kitchen unit. It is equipped with its own worktop, can be equipped with a hob, sink and storage system. A kitchen island is not a mandatory piece of furniture, and it will not be appropriate in every kitchen.

So, who can afford a kitchen island?

Complete island suitable for 20-25 m2 kitchens ² and above , and there must be a separate dining area.
Peninsula or small mobile island suitable for kitchens from 15 m ² .
The kitchen table will look great on the border of zones in a combined kitchen-living room or studio apartment.
This is a great option for spacious cottages and country houses.

Is it possible to install a kitchen island in an ordinary city apartment? Difficult. If this is not a modern spacious studio apartment, then you will have to get rid of some partitions, combine the kitchen and living room, obtain the necessary permits and still be content with the smallest version of the island. But if this is your interior dream, then why not?

#2. Why is a kitchen island necessary?

The kitchen island can perform one task or a range of functions:

be part of a "work triangle". Ergonomics rules say that it is most convenient when the stove, sink and refrigerator are located at the vertices of an equilateral triangle. The easiest way to achieve this layout is with an island;
become additional or basic worktop ;
completely or partially replace dining area if chairs are placed on one side;
can be used as storage place , because under the table top you can organize a lot of shelves and drawers. Usually, plates, pots, other kitchen utensils and cookbooks are stored in the kitchen island. Sometimes a freezer or dishwasher is built into it.

Designers call the kitchen island the best way to organize large kitchen space in terms of ergonomics.

#3. Pros and cons of kitchens with an island

The broadest functionality along with decent dimensions allow us to talk about a number of pros and cons of a kitchen island. Let's start with the good:

the comfort and ergonomics of . Thanks to the presence of the island, all the main elements in the kitchen can be placed closer to each other. The hostess will spend less energy moving between the sink, stove, refrigerator and work surface. Consequently, time, energy is saved, comfort is increased. Moreover, if there is an island several people can cook at once ;
while cooking a culinary masterpiece, a hostess can easily communicate with her family and guests without turning her back on them;
kitchen island can replace the weighty part of the set and accommodate a hob with oven, dishwasher or sink;
kitchen island, or rather part of it, can be used as a dining table or bar counter for small snacks;
the island can become the main zoning element of the space of the combined kitchen-living room;
the island looks chic in large kitchens, adds chic and zest to them.

There are also disadvantages:

depending on the dimensions of the island will take from 1 to 3 m ² of the area , plus it is necessary to provide enough space around it for free movement. In general, for small kitchens, a full-fledged island is a pipe dream;
If you are planning to place a sink or dishwasher on the island, then be prepared for the difficulties associated with transferring communications and creating the necessary slope, which may entail raising the floor level. Moreover, in an ordinary apartment it will not be easy to do this.

#4. Distance between the island and other pieces of furniture

To ensure that the kitchen island does not interfere with free movement, opening drawers and the dishwasher, it is necessary to leave enough space between it and the kitchen set or wall.

Minimum distance 100 cm, optimum 120 cm . Only in this case, the kitchen island will really be comfortable and ergonomic, and will not cause inconvenience.

No. 5. Standard dimensions of the kitchen island

The optimal parameters of the island depend on the size of the kitchen and the personal preferences of the household:

in a spacious kitchen, you can safely place an island up to 2 m long , if there is a need for such a giant;
the standard for the kitchen island are 180*90 cm and 180*60 cm . Three standard modules will fit in length;
Width usually ranges from 60 to 120 cm . A compact island 60 cm wide on one side will have blank cabinet walls. In an island 90-120 cm wide, you can fit lockers on several sides;
the island is usually made with a height of 85-90 cm , like the rest of the set, so that you can cook comfortably. If a dining area is provided, it may be slightly lower. An alternative option is to keep the height of the tabletop the same level and buy higher (semi-bar) chairs. Part of the tabletop can be raised, thus organizing the bar counter. Its logical conclusion will be bar stools.

#6. Kitchen island shape

Designers suggest that the island shape should match the kitchen island shape , i.e. for a rectangular room, a rectangular island is suitable, for a square room, a square one. Rectangular and square islands have become so popular that many do not even imagine this element of a different shape.

In addition to the standard islands, there are semi-circular, oval, intricately curved, triangular islands and more. To order, you can make an island of any shape and size. The main thing is that, along with extravagance and unusualness, the island should be functional, harmoniously fit into the existing interior. Oval and round tables are convenient because they do not have corners and reduce the risk of injury, but they take up more space. Broken, triangular and other design options are rarely functional, they require huge areas to arrange them without risk to health.

When choosing a form, it is necessary to look not only at the shape of the kitchen, but also the type of arrangement of the kitchen set . If an L-shaped layout is chosen, then a square island will be a good solution. For U-shaped kitchens, a rectangular island is usually chosen, but the final decision depends on the size of the room. If the headset is located in one line, then you can choose an island of any shape. Islands of bizarre shape are best supported by the same unusual set.

No. 7. The main types of kitchen islands

The standard kitchen island is a free standing unit. But what about those who have a kitchen not large enough to accommodate a full-fledged island, but want to have such a useful accessory? It's good that they came up with several interesting varieties of ordinary islands:

peninsula differs from the island only in that one of its ends adjoins a wall, kitchen set or window sill. This solution allows you to significantly save space, while retaining the maximum benefits of a full-fledged island;
mobile compact island . These are now in the collections from IKEA. When necessary, it can be placed in the kitchen, fixed and used as an additional countertop and storage space, and then rolled, for example, into a pantry or pushed against a wall;
archipelago is a kind of kitchen island designed for spacious rooms. The archipelago is a system consisting of multi-level structures. Thus, maximum functionality is achieved. One part can be used for cooking dinners, the second for eating, and the third can be raised to the level of the bar and used only for snacks.

#8. Options for organizing a kitchen with an island

We have already mentioned that the kitchen island is multifunctional . Now let's give examples of how it can be used in the kitchen:

as an additional work surface. This is the easiest option in terms of implementation, since you do not have to transfer communications. If you like to cook, or there are several people in the family who are actively experimenting in the kitchen, then the additional workspace will only benefit. Just remember to place a few outlets on the ends of the island. So it will be easier to use kitchen appliances and charge gadgets;
island with a bar counter , which can become an additional element of zoning. You can organize a bar area due to the countertop protruding from one side, but in terms of height, such a solution will not reach a full-fledged bar counter. An alternative solution is to raise part of the countertop;
island can flow smoothly into dining table . In this case, it is desirable that its width be at least 90 cm. As for the height, then it’s more convenient for anyone. Someone prefers higher tables and semi-bar stools, then the level of the kitchen island will be the same. Someone likes a dining table of the usual height, then it will be necessary to provide for the transition from one level to another;
the island with electric hob is harder to organize. Not only will you have to supply electricity (it is better to run the cable along the floor), but you will also have to provide for an exhaust hood. You will have to choose a special model, and even conduct an air duct, and then hide it behind the ceiling structure (stretch and suspended ceilings are suitable). This means that you have to sacrifice the height of the room. But there is a way out - you can buy a hood with recirculation. It draws in air, purifies it and returns it back. Filters will have to be changed often, but if the ceilings are low, this is the only option;
kitchen island with sink will require relocating water and sewer pipes, providing the necessary slope, and sometimes even installing pumping equipment. Well, if you are building a private house, and you can plan the location of communications in advance, as needed. And if we are talking about an ordinary city apartment? We will also have to agree on the project, and it may happen that it will be impossible to place a sink on the island at all. But even if such an option is feasible, do not forget that the pipes passing through the middle of the kitchen under a slope will need to be hidden somehow. This means that the floor surface will rise, and the height of the room will decrease. The same problems lie in wait if you want to bring a dishwasher to the island;
island-showcase suggests a large number of open shelves, where plates, souvenirs, books are beautifully arranged. To heighten the effect, the shelves can be illuminated with LED strip or special furniture fixtures. Open cabinets and shelves can be located around the entire perimeter of the island, or they can decorate only part of it, for example, the one that is turned towards the dining area or living room.

One and the same kitchen island can do several things at the same time. For example, serve as an additional work surface, the location of the built-in oven and snack area.

#9. Style of execution of the kitchen island

The island part of the kitchen should be in harmony with the rest of the interior details in terms of material, shape and color scheme. If the kitchen set is made of wood with a stone countertop, then it is better if the island is exactly the same. If the kitchen is spacious enough, then you can afford some liberties and focus on the portable cabinet due to an interesting texture or shade. But even in this case, it is important not to play too much and not lose the overall harmony of the room.

To create a harmonious kitchen interior, it is necessary, first of all, to build on the chosen style and select the appropriate island for it:

for classic interiors , a massive island made of polished wood is suitable, the countertop must be either wooden or stone. Carved elements, gilding, panels and other decorative elements are welcome. The color scheme matches the interior, but light shades and rich browns, olive, black-gray and gray-white are preferred. Above the island you can hang a large crystal chandelier;
for modern interiors (hi-tech and minimalism), a laconic island that fully matches the kitchen set will suit. Minimum decor - maximum practicality. Materials such as artificial stone, steel, tempered glass are preferred. On the island, you can place an induction cooker, build in an oven or a sink. The main task of modern interior styles is to simplify a person’s life and daily worries, so the idea of a kitchen island fits very well into this concept. Do not forget to organize a convenient storage system and allocate some space for snacks;
The island also fits into the Provence style. In this case, the preferred light pastel shades are: white, milky, light lavender, mint, turquoise, etc. The base is made of wood, the countertop is made of natural or artificial stone of a light shade. A large number of drawers, shelves, wicker baskets are welcome, some of the shelves can be covered with checkered, flowered or striped chintz curtains. Special honeycomb shelves for storing bottles of wine will look good - Provence, after all, belongs to the wine-growing regions;
For country style, you should choose a massive, even rough island made of natural wood. The texture of the wood is best preserved, so lacquering is preferred over painting. Large shelves and cabinets, wrought iron handles, stone, wood or ceramic tile countertops - all this will complement the country style. Some of the shelves can be left open, new furniture can be aged;
loft-style island almost always acts as a separator between the kitchen area and the living room. The cabinet should be as simple as possible, you can use brickwork, a steel pipe structure as a base, and choose stone or steel as a countertop. You don’t have to hide the air duct from the hood - its presence will only emphasize the chosen style;
An island with a bizarre shape, with smooth, streamlined facades, will fit into the Art Nouveau style. Preferably glass and metal;
Scandinavian style emphasizes simplicity and functionality. The base of the island can be wood, brick, concrete or metal, the preferred countertop material is wood. It is better to choose a light-colored island.

#10. Island in the interior of a small kitchen

It is generally accepted that the island is a privilege only for owners of huge kitchens. Is this statement correct? Yes, but only in part. Classic bulky stationary island - this is only for large rooms , but if you have a small kitchen you can find a way out, however, you will have to make compromises.

Take a look at small stationary models. An island with dimensions of 120*60 will allow you to equip additional workspace and storage space, if necessary, divide the room into zones, but will not take up too much space.

Also note the various withdrawable and mobile versions . You can order a set in which the island will fully or partially slide into one of the modules. An alternative option is to attach the countertop to the wall and raise it as needed (for snacking, cooking). You can consider designs on wheels.

In some kitchens, is equipped with an island in the bar counter format. The main task of such a solution is to separate the kitchen area from the recreation area. From the side of the living room, the rack is completed with high chairs, and from the side of the kitchen, it can be supplemented with a folding table top, which can be raised if necessary and used for cooking.

#11. Design Tricks

Professional designers advise:

to make a kitchen with an island visually more spacious and airy, the base of the island can be made discontinuous. Of course, in this case, you will have to sacrifice some storage spaces or areas for installing built-in appliances, but you can find a balance between practicality and airiness;
Shelf can be hung above the island. mensolu. Initially, these shelves were used in country and Provence style for convenient storage of pots, pans and other kitchen utensils. This solution looks most successful in a rustic style, but the mensolu can also be built into other interior solutions;
don't forget about the quality lighting of island, because it will be at the epicenter of cooking, snacking and maybe even dinner. Use hanging lamps, spotlights, LED strips, chandeliers, and do not forget that powerful lamps can also be built into the hood.

To finally understand whether a kitchen island would be appropriate in your apartment, draw a floor plan on a scale and draw an island of the desired size, adjust its shape and parameters if necessary, think over a variant with a folding worktop, and then analyze whether it will be necessary to sum up which something to communicate and whether it can be done. It is better to analyze all possible aspects in advance, so that later, halfway through, you will not meet with disappointment from the fact that some plans that have become an obsession did not work out.

Modern design puts convenience and comfort at the forefront, which is why kitchen islands have become so popular lately. The island in the kitchen is an additional work surface located in the center of the room. An island in the kitchen allows you to cook food regardless of the location of the main headset: several people can cook in such a kitchen at once.

Kitchen island combined with dining areaKitchen island transforms the interior, making it more modern

Why is a kitchen island a good idea for a modern apartment?

The kitchen island has an advantageous central position, which means that the working surfaces can be approached from all sides.
In the kitchen island you can build in additional modules for storing utensils and almost any technique.
The island module can be equipped with a full-fledged countertop, a pull-out countertop and a bar counter, so you can cook and have a meeting at the same time
Kitchen island with dining areaMobile kitchen island. If necessary, such a module can simply be rolled back to the wall. It is not possible to build appliances and sinks into a mobile island
The minimum allowable dimensions of a kitchen island differ depending on its functional content. For an island that will contain only boxes for storing utensils, the minimum size is 80 cm in length and 60 cm in width. Such an island can be made mobile by putting it on wheels.
In order to integrate a sink into the kitchen island, it is necessary to install a cabinet with dimensions of at least 80 cm x 150 cm. To accommodate two pieces of equipment, the kitchen island must be at least 80 cm x 180 cm. The more equipment is built into the island, the larger its size. A full-fledged dining table top adds 60-80 cm to the width of the kitchen island. To accommodate the bar counter, an additional 25-40 cm is sufficient.
Kitchen island with dining areaKitchen island with bar
To save space, the bar can be combined with a dining table or a worktop. If the space of the kitchen allows, then you can equip the bar counter as a second kitchen island. This will allow you to distinguish between the kitchen and dining area.
The first kitchen island is a cooking area and storage modules. The second kitchen island is a bar counter, a sink and a worktop
The standard kitchen island height for cooking is 85 cm. The table top of the dining area is usually made below or at the level of the work surface. Standard comfortable tabletop height 75 cm. The bar counter is installed above or at the level of the working surface. The standard height of the bar counter is 90-110 cm. However, under the order, you can make an island kitchen set of almost any size.

Classic style square kitchen island

Modern style square kitchen island

Rectangular kitchen island The dining area is distinguished by color and texture against the background of the working surface

L-shaped and U-shaped kitchen islands are considered functionally more than. More appliances and communications can be built into such kitchen islands. However, such islands are suitable only for spacious kitchens and kitchen-living rooms.
Any appliances can be built into the kitchen island: here a microwave, oven and sink
Dishwasher is usually installed together with a sink. For these working processes, the same communications are carried out, so it would be more logical to group the equipment that works with water in one place.

Sink combined with dining area. After eating, the dishes do not need to be moved, it is enough just to move them to the side of the sink

Sink combined with a sideboard for storing dishes

Large kitchen island equipped with a sink and wine storage area

A cooking surface is usually removed to the kitchen island. It is recommended to install an island hood above the cooking surface. A kitchen island with a cooking surface is often combined with a bar counter and a sink.
Example of kitchen island with extractor hood0005
Whatever the style of your kitchen, the main thing is the comfort and technical equipment of the room. In modern design, the convenience and speed of cooking processes are put in the first place. Preference is given to multifunctional equipment to save space. A kitchen island is an excellent solution, since it is possible to integrate a variety of appliances into it and at the same time build an additional countertop.
The main thing is convenience and simplicity.
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