Placing a kitchen island in a kitchen extension: Where is the optimal location?
In the realm of kitchen extensions, the kitchen island has become a popular and desirable feature. Its positioning, however, is crucial for the success of the layout.
Claire Garner, an interior designer, emphasizes the importance of balancing functionality with the flow of the space when positioning a kitchen island. A central island may not always be the best approach in a kitchen extension, depending on the layout and how the island interacts with the rest of the room.
When it comes to positioning, the island should generally be placed centrally but aligned to maintain the classic kitchen "work triangle" between the sink, stove, and refrigerator. This allows the island to accommodate a cooking surface, sink, prep area, or seating depending on your needs.
To position a kitchen island optimally in a kitchen extension, ensure at least 90–120 cm (3–4 feet) of clearance around all sides for comfortable movement and workflow, especially between the island and surrounding counters or walls. This provides enough space for opening cabinets and ensures safe, fluid movement without congestion.
The size of the island should be proportionate to the kitchen. Only include an island if your kitchen is at least about 15 m². Smaller kitchens might benefit from a peninsula or mobile island instead. The standard island countertop height is 36 inches (91 cm) to match cabinetry and appliances, but islands with bar seating sections can be taller (42 inches). Typical island depth for combined prep and seating is about 120 cm (4 feet) with a length between 7-10 feet being ideal for larger kitchens.
The shape of the island can greatly impact its functionality. Rectangular islands fit most spaces and provide practical cabinetry. L-shaped islands can delineate work and seating zones in open-concept kitchens and use space creatively.
Consider the island’s role—prep area, cooking surface, sink installation, storage, or social hub—to determine its location relative to main kitchen zones. For instance, if space is limited, consider a portable kitchen island on wheels. In larger open-plan spaces, the island placement can help create zones, with the possibility of positioning it to create a division between food preparation spaces and eating areas.
If the extension has glass or lots of glazing, such as bi-fold or sliding doors, the kitchen island should be positioned to take advantage of natural light and views. Kitchen extensions often provide opportunities for a greater connection with gardens or more natural light, making this a key factor to consider.
Lastly, it is important to work with a professional kitchen designer to explore all options and personalize the design to suit individual lifestyle needs. This collaboration ensures that the kitchen island in your kitchen extension serves its purpose effectively and enhances the overall aesthetic and functionality of your space.
- In the realm of kitchen extensions, the costs associated with a kitchen island should be carefully considered when planning the project, as it can significantly impact theoverall budget.
- A designer's guide to kitchen planning will emphasize the importance of balancing functionality with the flow of the space when positioning a kitchen island.
- When designing the interior-design of a kitchen extension, the placement of the kitchen island is crucial for the success of the layout, as its position can greatly impact the lifestyle and home-and-garden dynamics.
- For a kitchen extension, the kitchen island should be proportionate to the home's flooring area, with larger kitchens benefiting from an oversized island with a length between 7-10 feet.
- In a kitchen extension project, the design of the kitchen island should cater to utility needs such as a cooking surface, sink, prep area, storage, or even a social hub, depending on the family's lifestyle.
- When positioning a kitchen island in a kitchen extension, the role it will play in the overall layout should be carefully considered, with the island's functions dictating its placement relative to main kitchen zones.
- The lighting in a kitchen extension can be enhanced by the positioning of the kitchen island, as positioning it to take advantage of natural light and views can make the space brighter and more inviting.
- Designing a kitchen extension, one should consider the doors and windows of the extension, as they can significantly affect the size and shape of the kitchen island, as well as the general layout.
- In a kitchen extension, the kitchen island can be a key feature that enhances the overall aesthetic and functionality of the kitchen, making it a worthwhile investment when properly planned and designed.
- Careful planning and collaboration with a professional kitchen designer can ensure that the kitchen island in a kitchen extension serves its purpose effectively, providing practical storage, functionality, and enhancing the overall aesthetic of the home.
