Kitchen islands have become a dream commodity for homes by giving dining areas more room for gatherings and meals. When planning a kitchen remodel, you have to consider new countertops, cabinets, and the flow of foot traffic. Here’s a guide for choosing the right island style for your dining or cooking area.

Your Guide to Installing a Kitchen Island

Benefits of a Kitchen Island

Including an island in the new floor plan will optimize the space while constructing an updated fixture. Additional storage space is one of the most significant factors for installation. You can take advantage of all four kitchen island sides with cabinets, shelving, and hidden appliances. You’ll now be able to add more needed cooking utensils to your collection. 

When looking for additional kitchen seating, plan your remodel with an island that has a bar overhang and room for many barstools. This gives your guests more places to rest or for the kids to eat and do homework. As a focal point, a kitchen island can display a bouquet or desserts and treats for your parties to enjoy.

How to Plan for an Island in Your Kitchen Remodel

Fitting your kitchen for an island is challenging when space is limited. For smaller kitchens, roll-away islands are typically best; however, if your kitchen remodel includes a grounded island, you need to size it appropriately. The fixture shouldn’t take up more than 10% of the total square footage of your kitchen. Installing an island that’s too big overwhelms the space and creates crowded foot traffic jams.

When planning for the right-sized fixture for your home, place a small table in the center of your kitchen. Observe how your family operates and uses the table over a week or two.

Homeowners also have to consider whether to install a stovetop and forgo their range stove on the kitchen perimeter. If you want more room for meal prepping, free up counter space along the kitchen’s edges and bring the range to the island. Some homeowners keep both and use center ranges as an overflow unit for larger dinner parties.

Are you searching for the right contractors for your kitchen remodel? Turn to the team at Apollo General Contracting in Dayton, OH. For more than 40 years, this locally owned and operated contractor has helped homeowners with various improvement projects. To request an estimate, call them today at (937) 321-6759 or visit them online for more information.