Kitchen Island Ideas: Let Your Style Show

The kitchen island has become a main stay in today's modern kitchens. According to the National Kitchen and Bath Association, 80% of today's new home buyers want an island in their kitchen. Part of the reason for a rise in popularity is the way we use our kitchens. When we entertain, the kitchen tends to be the main gathering place and an island makes the perfect place to have our guest become a part of the activity. Put a few stools or barstools in place and it brings people into a place where they can talk while you prepare the meal.

Islands can be designed in many shapes and sizes. You can also incorporate many different functions into it. You can add a sink and dishwasher to make it a prep station. Wouldn't you rather be looking out into your family room or den instead of out the window or starring at a wall? If you do this you should add a 42 inch high knee wall so you hide the sink area from the living area. This also gives an excellent area to add barstools for added seating. You can also add a cook top or stove. If you do you must make sure they have a downdraft vent installed. Make sure you add several electrical outlets to the sides of the islands. This way you have a place to plug in appliances.

The shape of the island will mainly depend on the shape of the kitchen. You will probably want the island to follow the same curvature of the kitchen layout. However, if you want to get creative with the shape, there are no hard fast rules. Use your imagination to have the island reflect your style. Before you decide on the exact placement of your island remember you should leave about a three foot clearance for walkways. If a refrigerator, stove or dishwasher opens toward the island you should leave a four foot clearance. Try adding different levels to the island to add to the overall look. With a little effort you can come up with many kitchen island ideas.

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