AB & K Bath and Kitchen, a locally-owned, 5-star rated home remodeler serving Southeast Wisconsin, often encounters a common question when planning a kitchen remodel: should I add an island to my kitchen? The answer depends on various factors, including your kitchen’s size, your lifestyle, and your design preferences. This blog post will help you decide whether a kitchen island is the right choice for your home.
1. Available Space
Before anything else, consider the amount of space available in your kitchen.
Room for Movement
A kitchen island requires ample room for movement around it. Generally, there should be at least 42-48 inches of space around all sides of the island to accommodate foot traffic and allow for cabinet and appliance doors to open comfortably.
Proportionate Size
An island should also be proportionate to the size of the kitchen. A large island can overwhelm a small kitchen, while a small island can seem out of place in a spacious kitchen.
2. Lifestyle and Use
Consider how you plan to use your kitchen island.
Cooking and Prepping
If you love to cook, a kitchen island can provide extra counter space for meal preparation. Consider adding a sink or cooktop for added convenience.
Entertaining and Dining
For those who love to entertain, a kitchen island can serve as a gathering spot where guests can interact with the host while meals are being prepared. You can also incorporate seating for casual dining.
3. Storage Needs
A kitchen island can significantly enhance your kitchen’s storage capacity.
Additional Cabinets and Drawers
Incorporating cabinets and drawers into your island design can provide a place for pots, pans, small appliances, and other kitchen essentials.
Specialty Storage
With a kitchen island, you can also incorporate specialty storage solutions, such as a wine rack, a bookshelf for cookbooks, or spice racks.
Adding a kitchen island can dramatically improve your kitchen’s functionality and aesthetics. However, it requires careful planning to ensure it fits well within your space and meets your specific needs. If you’re considering adding an island to your kitchen, or if you have other kitchen remodeling questions, don’t hesitate to call AB & K Bath and Kitchen at 414-329-1882. Our team is ready to help you create the kitchen of your dreams.
