One of the most requested and desired features of an updated and renovated kitchen is the island. Everyone wants one and for good reason. They are where we see ourselves congregating as we cook and eat in our kitchen spaces. So, when I am designing kitchens, I try to include an island when possible. But what do I put in an island? What makes it functional? These are some of my favorite, and not favorite, island features:
Seating: Seating is one of the biggest benefits of a kitchen island. I make sure to include seating only along the outside perimeter, and never on the side that the cook is using. This allows for conversation and family interaction, while keeping the work space clear.
Sinks: Sinks are a terrific feature to add to an island. It means that while doing most of the food prep and all of the dish washing, no one needs to stare at a wall. Instead, the person on dish duty will be facing their family or guests and can enjoy their company, even while getting the cooking or cleaning done. I will usually place the dishwasher next to the sink in the island for easy access.
Bookshelves: Many cooks like to store their cookbooks in their kitchens, and the side of an island is the perfect spot. It is also a great place to store some kids books or small toys for little kids to play with while you are cooking.
Cooktops: Cooktops are commonly placed in islands. It allows for the cook to converse with family and friends while cooking and gives the opportunity to install one of those beautiful vent hoods in the middle of your kitchen. However, this is actually a feature I almost never install in an island. Why? I have 5 kids. I can't even count the amount of times I have see my children reach across the countertop while they are sitting and eating breakfast. I would be much happier to have a small child accidentally touch a sink during the meal than to have a child touch the hot cooktop. Yes, I know that sounds a bit neurotic, but that is what happens to you when you are a mom. And when I design kitchens, I always design them from my own perspective, as a cook and as a mom. So no cooktops in the island for me.
Nothing: A kitchen island can also just include some cabinets or even be built like a table, with just legs and a countertop. Who says your island has to do a million things. Just being there might be all you need it to do.
The kitchen island is the optimal spot for everyone to gather as the cooking is happening. It is where many eat breakfast, do their homework, answer their emails and maybe even write this blog post. But the perfect island is the one that functions properly for the space and for the needs of the household. It needs to work for you. So, when you get ready to build or renovate your kitchen, don't forget to include the island of your dreams.
Kommentare