Kitchen Islands – A Changing Landscape
It’s often been said that the heart of the home is the kitchen – the place where family and friends gather for formal and not-so-formal occasions. If the kitchen is the heart then that puts the kitchen island at the center of everything that happens in a home, from homework prep to meal prep.
With kitchen islands becoming more and more popular in renovations for small and large kitchens alike and a “must-have” for new builds, it makes sense to look at this vitally important component of the family kitchen a little closer.
Unique All-Around
Contractors and kitchen design experts will tell you that kitchen islands are incredibly unique to each home and layout of the kitchen. There are so many options of islands to choose from or have custom-made that they are just about as uniquely different as each kitchen.
Not only can kitchen islands take on different shapes, sizes, and styles but they utilize different colors, textures, and materials. They also serve a multitude of functions that we will explore next.
The Changing Function of Kitchen Islands
Kitchen Islands were once considered as extra counter space to cut veggies, prepare a meal, or roll out dough. Now the functions of this centrally located component of kitchens have evolved drastically with added features such as prep sinks, beverage fridges, microwave drawers, hidden dishwashers, or compartments that hold appliances such as blenders or mixers.
Some of the different functions that have come from the newer shapes, styles, and sizes of kitchen islands include the traditional use of food prep and scullery duties but now additional uses such as buffet display areas, dining seating, homework areas, home offices, gathering locations, coffee break areas, and the always-needed extra storage.
As more and more home designs move away from the 1950s concept of a formal dining area, more families are choosing to include a kitchen island as extra seating for the less formal atmosphere of the kitchen. It’s also a great place to have spill-over seating for big family gatherings during holidays, celebrations, and larger meals.
Since the onset of Covid-19, many homeowners have found the need to carve out space in the home to get some work done remotely, and the kitchen seems to be a great choice as it’s close to snacks (and coffee) and enables parents to keep a watchful eye on their children.
Shapes, Sizes & Styles
With the changing landscape of kitchen islands comes the need to get creative in terms of the shapes, sizes, and styles of the island. Even the materials used are becoming more and more creative. What used to be made of only wood, the kitchen island now has homeowners choosing steel, metals, cement, and all different styles of countertops.
The size and style of the islands obviously depend on the overall layout and size of the kitchen. From rounded countertops to waterfall edges and cantilevered countertops, the options are endless especially if you have a contractor who is able to provide a custom option.
As for the style of the island, that will depend on the needs of each homeowner. If your main mission in adding a kitchen island is to carve out more storage options, then drawers and cabinets should be a priority. If extra seating is a top concern, adding stools or high-top chairs under the counter is always an option. Even small appliances can find a home on or within the island including microwaves, blenders, and mini wine fridges.
If you are looking for a custom island or the addition of a more traditional island, talk to our team today about the styles, sizes, and other options available to add value and space to your kitchen.
