Pros and Cons of Having a Kitchen Island
Having a kitchen island seems to be almost mandatory, at least in the design shows and magazines. Of course, most of them are dealing with optimal space and setup. Older kitchens and those with a tight layout may not be able to accommodate a kitchen island. Let's look at some pros and cons of kitchen islands to help you determine if you can justify the addition of one in your existing space.
Pros of Kitchen Islands
A kitchen island brings plenty of advantages to the table. Here are four of the big ones:
- Increases counter space for small appliances and prep space
- Offers addition storage for cooking utensils and specialty tools
- Adds seating options with bar stools or dining chairs along one or more sides
- Creates defined space in an open concept home
- Becomes the heart of the kitchen and where everyone spends their time
Cons of Kitchen Islands
An island can create problems in some kitchens. Here are a few common issues:
- Disruption in room flow if the island interrupts the work triangle
- Appliance placement problems because the island can be hard to vent and requires special wiring and plumbing
- Budget problems if the island is too large or if the finishes are too costly
- Space constrictions in tight kitchens
Ideally, a kitchen island should have 42-inches of space on each side for optimal movement and appliance use. An aisle can be 36-inches if it's meant for walking only, but that would cause that side to be useless for prep. Seating along an island is great, unless the walkway behind it gets restricted.
A kitchen island can be a great addition to many kitchens. If you find your home is an ideal candidate, you will next be wondering what the perfect countertop material will be. Granite? Porcelain? Quartz?
Take a look at our selection for inspiration! You can get an idea of what options you might have by browsing our online swatches, and then coming down to our gallery to get a feeling for the stone in person. You are certain to fall in love with something!