Kitchen islands have become an architectural and design focal point in recent years, and for good reasons: a kitchen island can add extra storage space, increase the amenities available in your kitchen, provide additional seating, and add visual and aesthetic elements that might otherwise go untapped.
But, like all good design, one island does not fit every kitchen—and before you can talk to your general contractor and designer about what might work best in your space, you have to be clear on what’s available for you. First, let’s talk about the advantages and disadvantages that matter regardless of which type of island you’re thinking about.
One of the most obvious advantages of opting for a kitchen island is that it gives you the ability to add amenities to your kitchen that you might have had to skip if you didn’t have an island. Want a built-in wine fridge? A cookbook library? A secondary/smaller sink or cooktop (if there’s the appropriate plumbing and wiring, of course)? All of those things—and more—are options if you opt for an island.
Another advantage is that of space. A kitchen island gives you another surface and, often, additional seating. It can be used as a gathering spot, a prep station, or a design feature. It can provide extra storage.
A kitchen island can also become a gorgeous focal point in the kitchen. With countless options for style and materials, a perfect-for-you island can turn your space from average to standout—and in so doing, might positively impact the resale value of your home.
But a kitchen island isn’t without disadvantages. One is that it might overtake the space in a way that makes your kitchen uncomfortable to work in. Trying to make your island do too much might be one reason this happens; another is because the space isn’t properly planned by an experienced contractor who knows exactly how much space is needed to make the island seem “just right.”
Another disadvantage is that the kitchen island, when not used properly, can become an eyesore. Like a dining room table that accumulates mail, groceries, and other bits of life, a kitchen island that isn’t well planned can become just another surface instead of a space with purpose.
Curious if an island is right for your space or want to know a few design options as you contemplate your next move? Check out the next post about different options or give us a call when you’re ready to make things happen. We can work together to create the space you can’t wait to come home to.
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