Islands have proved to be great favorites of contemporary kitchens, appearing in environments of different sizes, styles, and with different materials. Before installing a kitchen island, however, it is necessary to think about a few factors to make a better design decision.
For a correct functioning, the kitchen needs to guarantee a good flow between the three main pieces of equipment – the sink, the refrigerator and the stove – so that the islands, as the independent structures that add to the kitchen layout are called, can enter as a support for some of this equipment, even containing them. Usually centered, ensuring free movement around them, islands usually have a workbench, from which equipment such as cabinets, tables and shelves can be derived.
Type of Island
The layout configuration possibilities are many and depend on how users use that space, or what their routine and habits are. In general, the islands can be completely free in space, or they can derive from the counter or from a wall. In addition, it is essential to consider the correct distances for moving around the kitchen, as well as for handling cabinets, drawers and appliances. The distance between counters must be at least 1m to 1.20m.
Free Island
Island Derived From Counter
Island Derived From the Wall
Functionality
It is important to foresee the kitchen workflow, the paths between the fridge, countertops, stove and sink, so that the island can interact with these equipments instead of being an obstacle. It is necessary to foresee the functionality of the island for the kitchen, which can be the space for cooking, joining the stove, or cooktop, and a workbench. It can also be a space for washing food and dishes, joining the wet bench with the sink. It can also be a food preparation space or even a support for socializing, bringing people together close to where the food is being prepared.
Island With Sink
Island With Stove
Island as a Social Space
Island With Shelf
Once the functionality of the equipment is understood, it is important to foresee which infrastructures will be necessary to insert the island — water, gas and electricity points, for example — and the correct lighting, whether natural or artificial. Finally, the island can receive a completely different material from the rest of the kitchen, creating visual contrast, or harmonizing with the space. Regardless of the path, and in view of its frequent use, it is important that the island is designed with resistant and easy-to-maintain materials that guarantee its durability.
Editor's Note: This article was originally published on October 13, 2022.
