Adding an Island to Your Kitchen

Islands add a stylish touch to your kitchen, and can provide an extra countertop, seating, and storage space. Even kitchens that don’t have a lot of space can usually fit a small island that complements the décor and adds a touch of functional elegance. In fact, a National Association of Home Builders survey noted that 80% of home buyers consider a kitchen island desirable or essential.

If you are thinking about adding an island to your kitchen, or incorporating one into a new renovation, you have a wide variety of options to consider. An island isn’t just a table in the middle of the room with a surface that matches your countertops. It can provide counter-style dining, an opportunity to add elegant bar stools, an extra sink, or even be the centerpiece for artistic touches ranging from sculptures to mood lighting. Some kitchen islands have two sides available for completely different functions. Houzz.com has posted photos of islands that serve as functional spaces and stylish additions to help get you thinking about what you might want and need for your kitchen.

This Old House offers the following tips for homeowners considering a kitchen island:

• Location, Location, Location: The traditional kitchen island sits in the center of the room (the only option in an enclosed kitchen) because it helps to organize work flow, and provides counter space that is central to all sides of the kitchen. But a perimeter island is better for an open or semi-open floor plan. The social aspect of where an island is located should also be considered.
• Think About Size and Shape: The size of the kitchen itself might dictate the size of your island. You don’t want it to be so large that it inhibits movement and gets in the way, or so small that it has little function. Consider how much space both cooks and guests will need to navigate around the island. When it comes to shape, the four-sided island is classic, especially for closed floor plans. But open rooms might be able to accommodate options ranging from L-shapes to U-shapes, to add shelf space, towel bars, wine racks, or other accessories.
• Consider the Space Above the Island: Placing an island in the kitchen can open up options for using the space above it. Would a hanging pot rack be useful and attractive? Would an elegant pendant light-fixture add sophistication to the room?
• Add a Second Sink or a Cooktop: The National Kitchen & Bath Association reports that one-third of homes remodeled or newly built in the past two years feature kitchens with more than one sink. Adding a kitchen island can be the perfect way to add that extra sink, or even a cooktop. Remember, you’ll have to consider how to vent these new fixtures. For sinks, the venting usually has to be done through the floor. Overhead or downdraft vents are available for venting island cooktops.
• Is a Custom Island for You? Do you have ideas for a custom island that would fit the unique requirements of your kitchen or house (how about shelves that face your family room and hold a TV/VCR)? The design professionals at Atherton Appliance & KitchensAtherton Appliance & Kitchens will be happy to brainstorm with you.

If you’re looking for additional inspiration, 100 Great Ideas for Islands, by Annette M. Depaepe (Illustrator) and Valerie Caruso (Editor) offers numerous ideas for kitchen islands. Available through Amazon.com. Also,
KitchenBathIdeas.com is another website that offers numerous photos online.

And of course, we hope you will visit our showrooms so we can offer both practical and creative ideas for your kitchen. We look forward to seeing you soon.