A center island is a functional and attractive addition to a generously sized kitchen. It can serve as extra counter and storage room for cooking, cleaning or other tasks. Islands are also architectural design elements. They can be barriers that divide work and common areas or shared social spaces that join eating and cooking activities. Islands are defining centerpieces in a room or empty floor space.
Instructions
1. Define the purpose of your island. How will it be used? Is it a place to clean dishes? Extra storage? A food prep counter? A garbage, compost and recycling center? A kitchen island can serve a number of functions at once.
Choose whether you want a freestanding stationary island, a mobile island or a built-in island. A stationary island is suitable for cleanup, linen storage or light activities. A mobile island (on wheels or light for lifting) can be moved conveniently and brought out to the yard. It can also move with you. Built-in islands are suitable for electrical wiring, eating, cooking and storing heavy items. They are more substantial and expensive and stay with the home.
2. Select design features wisely. Islands can be made from a variety of materials that match your kitchen. Choose features that meet your needs. An island can support cupboards, shelves, drawers or racks. It can hold appliances like a dishwasher or fixtures like a sink. It can serve as an eating area with stools or chairs.
Create a kitchen "station." Islands are isolated areas; they should function independently. You must be able to perform tasks without getting in the way of others. Coordinate features for a self-contained design. For example, a marble heat-resistant counter, stove top and wine rack or butcher's block counter, sink, hand towel bar and knife rack.
3. Measure the intended size of your center island. Most islands are 2x4 feet, but they can be wider and longer depending on your kitchen. Account for ergonomics. People may walk around the island, move chairs and open drawers. Leave at least three feet on all sides for easy movement.
Choose the height of the island: a level at which residents can work or cook. For eat-in islands, diners should sit comfortably at the "bar." Raise table or bar end to prevent spattering.
4. Draw a floor plan of the kitchen, including the dimensions of the floor, walls, doors, windows cabinets and appliances. Make several photocopies. Experiment by drawing different island styles, shapes and sizes on the page. Try an arced or semicircular counter edge, which creates intimacy and interest. Play around with feature placements.
Use the finished plan to help you buy materials in the right sizes. Whether you are building or purchasing an island or having it customized or installed, your design plans are the guide and vision.
Make a mock kitchen. Building and remodeling expert Tim Carter recommends making a model island from wooden board cut to size. Lay the board on the floor where the island will be. For new kitchens, use cardboard (cut to size) to represent your cabinets and appliances. Walk around to see how it feels. Adjust your dimensions if needed.
5. Plan and measure the light and electricity sources. Some installations require one electrical outlet. Islands must be adequately lit. Overhead lighting is best for performing tasks. Select functional and flattering fixtures--such as drop or pot lights--that do not glare or shine into the eyes.
Install an overhead hood vent for stove top islands. This can also be a focal point of the kitchen. Try stainless steel or wood models. For powerful stinky smoke, use exhaust fans.
Related posts
Kitchen islands add a convenient work area plus extra storage space in your kitchen. An island can also be a comfortable focal point not only just for its eye appeal, but for gatherings of family...
Spacing of cabinets is important for beauty and function.You will need to invest time in reviewing how you enjoy working in the kitchen in order to plan cabinets correctly. For example, if you use...
Design a Kitchen IslandKitchen islands have been popular in kitchen design for the past 20 years, because they are so practical, and can be so attractive. Whatever your style, you can design an is...
Kitchen island cabinets are installed similarly to cabinets in the rest of your kitchen.Kitchen island cabinets are actually easier to install than the cabinets attached to walls. Some of the same...
Create a Kitchen Island With Limited SpaceAn island in the middle of your kitchen can provide the extra counter and storage space you need; however, you may have a challenge if you don't have enou...
