Key Takeaways
- Kitchen islands are both aesthetic and functional. They are versatile and great for kitchen makeovers.
- You can renovate kitchens of almost any size and style to accommodate islands.
- Space and utility are the two key factors that you should consider when designing a kitchen island.
Kitchen islands can transform boring kitchens into stylish and functional spaces. They can double as storage units and moonlight as a hotspot of socialization. If you are planning a kitchen makeover, consider adding an island counter.
Space smart constructions that are gaining massive popularity in Ontario often use this kind of minimalist but functional kitchen design. You too can make it a reality by embracing an open-concept kitchen island layout.
How to Plan a Kitchen Island for Maximizing the Utility of Indoor Space
Kitchen island installation can be a breeze if you take a methodical approach to planning, budgeting, and executing it. Older homes can be easily retrofitted with custom kitchen islands in Canada. When planned keeping the unique features of your home in mind, kitchen layouts with islands can enhance the aesthetic appeal and even increase your property value.
Start by:
1. Evaluating Your Kitchen
Islands are usually positioned in the space between parallel countertops or the counter and the wall, depending on the design of your kitchen. While they are a functional feature, it’s important to focus on the following to ensure your kitchen has enough floor space to accommodate one.
- Flow of Traffic: Consider how many people use the kitchen at once. This should help you ascertain if your kitchen is a high-traffic or low-traffic area. Each person should have 24 inches of the length of the kitchen to use it without discomfort. You can choose the kitchen island size based on this parameter.
- Utility Areas: Kitchen island designs should complement the existing layout of your kitchen. It’s necessary to position them close to the cooktop, countertops, sink, or refrigerator so that you have easy access to the island while you’re using the facilities.
While most modern homes that are built less than 5 years ago in the GTA come with an open-concept kitchen island design, older homes may not have that leeway.
In Ontario, building codes mandate the minimum distance between the island and the counter to be 40 inches. You can determine your kitchen island spacing requirements based on these factors.
2. Ascertaining the Purpose of the Kitchen Island
A strategically designed kitchen island can have multiple uses. It can provide:
- Extra countertop area for food prep and serving. Bear in mind that Ontario building codes specify counters to be used for food preparation while a work surface is only intended for dry use.
- Built-in storage for gadgets, crockery, and pantry items. Island cabinets can provide a fitting solution to your storage needs in small spaces. In fact, if you choose kitchen island storage solutions, go for custom kitchen cabinets that complement your interior design.
- Additional place for adding an extra sink or dishwasher.
- Breakfast bar area. An island bar is also a feasible choice if you are someone who entertains frequently at home.
- Seating. You can add low island chairs to the side that faces your living area and pair them with a table to create unique a dining space or workstation.
- Space for a stovetop. Create a kitchen nook that overlooks the rest of your living quarters so you can enjoy chatting with your friends and family while working.
Create a list of your top priorities in descending order of importance. This will ensure your kitchen island is customized to your unique needs.
Consider all possible kitchen island ideas if you are unsure of your goal. You can consult professional kitchen renovation services if you need help. We provide kitchen design and construction services in Toronto and GTA. Our team of licensed contractors can evaluate your kitchen to suggest practical upgrades that offer functionality and double up as an area of visual interest in your interior space.
3. Choosing the Right Layout
The layout of the island can make some designs more suitable for your kitchen compared to others.
Kitchen island layouts can be of the following types:
Galley Style
The classic galley layout is one of the most common and highly functional styles for any kitchen. It is one of the best kitchen islands for small spaces. You can customize the kitchen island dimensions to fit into the free space. Bar-style seating compliments galleys and the no-frills design implies you have a kitchen island with storage at its maximum capacity.
L-Shaped
This layout is ideal for open-plan or big kitchens. If you want a kitchen island with seating, you can utilize the longer arm of the L shape for it and reserve the shorter arm for sinks, appliances, etc. When planned keeping the architectural flow of the rest of your kitchen in mind, L-shaped kitchen islands can add depth and dynamics to your interiors.
U-Shaped
Even more spacious and forgiving than L-shaped layouts, U-shaped kitchen islands are highly functional and can create a cozy nook inside your kitchen. You need an extremely spacious kitchen design to accommodate this layout but that also gives you ample opportunity to use the three arms of the island for different purposes.
Double Islands
You can opt for two separate galley-style kitchen islands and use them separately if you have that much floor space to spare. That’s double the utility and storage for large families.
Just be extra careful about the layout — you could go for a simple parallel positioning or consider something more complex to suit your interiors as long as it does not compromise utility and aesthetics.
Movable Island
If you do not have ample space between the island and the counter, consider a utilitarian temporary solution — a movable station. Also known as rolling islands, these come with wheels and can be easily moved from your kitchen to any other part of the house when not in use.
You can also experiment with the material of the kitchen island besides its shape. For example, consider a wooden island for a classic vintage vibe and quartz for a sleek modern aesthetic.
FAQ about Kitchen Islands Design
Conclusions
A kitchen island is a versatile addition that enhances both the functionality and aesthetics of your kitchen. Whether you live in a compact home or have an open-concept space, there’s a suitable island layout for your needs. By carefully assessing your kitchen’s layout, setting clear priorities, and choosing the right design — galley, L-shape, U-shape, double, or movable — you can maximize space and utility. A well-planned island not only improves workflow but can also become the focal point of your kitchen.
Keen on giving your kitchen a stylish and functional makeover? Get a quote today.