Earn commission or revenue may be generated by Hearst Magazines and Yahoo through these links. A kitchen island is a highly sought-after item that many individuals, whether homeowners or renters, desire to have in their homes. These rectangular structures in the heart of your kitchen not only offer storage, counter space, and potential seating, but they have also evolved into decorative focal points in recent years, serving as a platform to exhibit your style. From custom craftsmanship and ornamental features to unique countertops, the kitchen island stands as the ultimate functional statement piece.
However, before delving into the specifics, it’s crucial to select an island that suits your space best. If it’s too large, it may encroach on functionality; if it’s too small, it may get lost in a high-traffic area. Here’s how to determine the right island size for your kitchen.
How to Determine the Ideal Size for Your Kitchen Island
Several factors should be considered when determining not only the size of your island but also whether your kitchen can accommodate one. We consulted with interior designers and kitchen experts to uncover their guidelines on minimum and maximum dimensions, walkway clearances, preferred seating options, and more.
Minimum and Maximum Dimensions for a Kitchen Island
The size of island you can feasibly incorporate into your kitchen varies depending on the room’s dimensions. A good rule of thumb is to ensure that your kitchen island doesn’t exceed 10% of the total square footage of your kitchen. For instance, if your kitchen measures 200 square feet, your island should not surpass 20 square feet.
Tanya Smith-Shiflett from Unique Kitchens & Baths and Angelica Ferguson VonDrak, a broker and designer in the Hudson Valley, outline the general dimension recommendations for small, medium, and large kitchens.
In a larger kitchen, roughly 16 feet by 20 feet, aim for an island that is approximately seven to 10 feet long and three to four feet wide. This size strikes a balance, adding presence without overwhelming the space, according to Ferguson VonDrak.
For a medium-sized kitchen around 12 feet by 14 feet, an island can fit comfortably, but the general guideline suggests that it should not be smaller than four feet by two feet. Ferguson VonDrak prefers not to go below five feet by three feet for an island, indicating that a permanent island isn’t typically recommended for smaller kitchens.
In such cases, a movable island on wheels offers additional workspace with the flexibility to store it away when needed, as suggested by Smith-Shiflett. Another alternative for a small kitchen is a peninsula.
Clearance Around the Kitchen Island
Once you have determined the basic dimensions for your kitchen island, clearance becomes crucial. The space between the island and the nearby wall or counter should not be so narrow that it hinders movement in the kitchen. Ferguson VonDrak advises maintaining a clearance of at least 36 inches and up to 48 inches on all sides of the island, allowing people to navigate
“Make sure there’s a balanced triangle between the stove, prep areas, and sink so you don’t find yourself walking a long way to access what you need,” advised Teri Simone from Nieu Cabinet Doors. It’s crucial that the flow in the kitchen is just right – not too big that it feels like a trek to move around, but not too small that it becomes cramped and claustrophobic.
Kitchen islands are versatile pieces that can also serve as eating spaces. In such cases, the size and clearance requirements change. Simone recommends having a minimum of 24 inches of space per person or per stool at the island. For example, a 72-inch island can comfortably seat three barstools. Additionally, there should be 44 inches of clearance behind each stool to allow for smooth movement even when they are occupied.
Apart from size considerations, there are numerous other factors to take into account when designing your ideal kitchen island. Storage options are key – islands can offer additional storage through deep drawers, pull-out shelves, and a mix of open and closed shelving. Ferguson VonDrak emphasizes the importance of finding a balance between style and functionality to create a space that truly works for you. For instance, open shelving may showcase elegant glassware but could highlight a disorganized collection of dishes and pots if not well-organized.
The size of your island will influence the countertop configuration. If the island is too large for a single stone slab, it may result in unwanted seams or necessitate the purchase of two slabs. In cases where space is limited, a butcher block countertop on a smaller island can also double as a convenient cutting board, offering functionality in a compact package.
Island height is another crucial consideration. The height of the island can impact user comfort during food prep. Emily Arthur from Isla Porter suggests that tall individuals may prefer a taller island to avoid bending over, while lower islands are essential for wheelchair users. Custom islands might be necessary if standard measurements do not align with your specific needs, as your living space should be tailored to your lifestyle.
For those with ample space, the idea of having two kitchen islands can be enticing. One island can be designated for food preparation and cooking, while the other can serve as a space for entertaining and dining – akin to a simplified dirty kitchen setup. However, it is vital to maintain the integrity of the kitchen triangle when considering dual islands, ensuring that the layout remains functional and efficient.
In conclusion, designing the perfect kitchen island involves a delicate balance of various factors such as size, storage options, countertop materials, island height, and layout considerations. By carefully planning and customizing your island to suit your specific needs and lifestyle, you can create a functional and stylish centerpiece for your kitchen space.
