Do you want to add an island to your kitchen remodel? This popular kitchen feature can serve many functions and add to the efficiency of the kitchen. But if it's not well-planned, it could make the kitchen less enjoyable. To help you make the right choices for your island, here are three important questions to answer before picking out yours.
1. What Will It Do to the Triangle?
The kitchen work triangle is an important — but often misunderstood — kitchen feature. This triangle consists of the foundation elements of kitchen work: stove, sink, and refrigerator. Many experts recommend planning this triangle so that it's direct, short, and uninterrupted to increase efficiency and comfort while decreasing wasted time and movement. Would your island add to the work triangle or make it less functional?
2. How Will You Use the Island?
Aside from knowing you want an island, what do you want to accomplish with it? Do you want to use it to make your work triangle smaller, such as by placing the stove or sink in the island? Do you need the additional countertop for food prep or baking? Will you use it for additional seating as you cook or to replace a traditional kitchen table inside the room?
The way your family will actually use the island should inform its size, its appearance, and its contents. An island intended to seat guests or kids doing homework, for instance, might have extra-wide counters or even a drop-down counter while reducing the cabinetry to allow more leg room. By tailoring the island to real-life use, you will be happier with the whole setup.
3. Can the Kitchen Support an Island?
One cardinal mistake that some homeowners make is to add an island simply because they like the idea rather than because it's logical for this layout. Carefully assess desire versus the reality of your space.
Remember that an island needs a lot of square footage — often up to 10 or 12 feet of width and at least that amount of length. Will this unnecessarily squeeze surrounding kitchen cabinets, counters, or fixtures? Or are there other options, like a peninsula or a mobile island, that could do the job in a better way?
If you're contemplating adding an island to any kitchen, start by meeting with a local kitchen remodeling contractor. They will work with you to find the best solutions for your space that will fulfill your practical needs and aesthetic designs. Call today to make an appointment.
Hello, my name is Becky Stillwell. Welcome. I am here to talk to you about updating your home with modern materials by hiring a remodeling contractor. My home looked incredibly outdated when I first purchased it years ago. Since then, its finish materials have continued to age poorly over time. I hired a remodeling contractor to help rectify this situation and was blown away by the quality of service I received. By creating this site, I have dedicated my time to help others navigate this fun process. You are welcome to come back anytime to learn more about updating your home with modern materials.