Islands are a popular addition for kitchen remodeling projects and offer a lot of design freedom. With that comes the potential to overlook goals and design beyond your means, which is why it’s essential to be strategic. Approaching the project with goals in mind will help you choose the best island for your needs. Below is a helpful guide to get you started.

How to Design a Kitchen Island

Space & Size

An oversized island will crowd your kitchen, while an undersized island may look unbalanced and rob you of design potential. Generally, an island should be at least 4 feet long, 2 feet wide, and at least 36 inches high. You’ll need 36 to 42 inches of clearance space on all sides so you can move comfortably.

Also, adhere to the concept of a work triangle. This kitchen design philosophy demands that there should be clear space between the sink, refrigerator, and stove for the easiest cooking experience.

Purpose

Once you have your size, you can begin exploring features. Do you want to add more cooking space? Consider including a cooktop, basin sink, or built-in microwave or oven. If prep is the only priority, a basic island with granite countertops will get the job done.

Families that love to host guests and dine together may want to add a bar and seating to the island. If you’re low on storage, consider adding cabinets beneath. Honing in on your goals will help you finalize the design and begin choosing materials that meet your kitchen remodeling budget.

In a small kitchen, a rolling butcher block table with shelves underneath for extra storage, prep, and serving space may be the better solution. Also consider a small shelf attached to a wall where bar stools can be used to add seating.

For the best results, always work with kitchen remodeling professionals. The team at Appalachian Contracting Services has completed countless projects for customers throughout Dahlonega, GA, ranging from kitchen and bathroom transformations to home additions and custom homes. They’ll work closely with you to meet all your goals, so begin exploring their past work on their website. Receive more remodeling tips on their Facebook, or schedule a consultation by calling (706) 864-8777.