What it is?
A kitchen island is an independently standing part of a kitchen unit. Most often it is placed in the center of the kitchen.
At the same time, you can use this element of furniture in different ways: as a countertop or as a table, place a stove or sink there, turn it into something like a bar counter... It all depends on the needs and design project.
The lower part is rarely made hollow: often additional drawers for storing kitchen utensils are placed there.
Let’s make a reservation right away: it is unrealistic to install it in a small kitchen, as it takes up too much space.
However, usually in small kitchens they use an alternative - a peninsula. This is a protruding structure, on one side adjacent to the wall or headset.
The islands themselves are of two types:
- stationary, that is, built into the floor;
- and mobile (mobile).
The former are more suitable for a full-fledged work surface with a stove and plumbing fixtures, while the latter are more suitable for those who want to equip an additional countertop.
Dimensions and functionality of the island
Kitchen islands are sometimes chosen even by owners of rather modest kitchens or spaces combined with living rooms. Then the dimensions will obviously be small, but they can still be different - proportional to the area of the room. The larger it is, the more extensive such an interior element can be. If the space is combined with other functional areas, the island element should be proportional to the area allocated for the kitchen.
Designers suggest using simple advice on organizing space with an island set:
- The dimensions of the island will be the most harmonious, taking into account the comfortable parameters of the desktops . The minimum block is 60 by 60 cm. Accordingly, the length of such a table can be increased to 120, 180, etc. see. The smallest islands and tables can also be on wheels - such a mini-set. Although most often it is a minibar, a refrigerator, just a cabinet for dishes and utensils.
- If desired, you can make the island part also square - 60x60 for a small kitchen, 120x120, 180x180. It all depends on the parameters of the room. The only thing worth considering is the equipment of the lower part of the structure.
- Original island elements may have a completely non-standard shape , and therefore their sizes will be unusual. These include semicircular tabletops, islands in the shape of a ship’s bow, and wing-shaped structures.
A kitchen island table, regardless of size, can vary in content. Most often this is a cabinet - with shelves behind the fronts or drawers. The shelves can also be open. For example, in the Provence style they are covered with light curtains. In the same country, a variety of items can be stored in wicker baskets placed on open shelves.
The larger the island, the more functional it can be. Often its tabletop continues with a dining table or bar counter. Depending on the height of the main structure, the dining area can be a continuation of the island or a separate part of it on another level - usually at a lower level for a dining group or higher for a bar counter.
A luxurious option would be to install a minibar or a small refrigerator for drinks, or a wine cabinet under the island countertop.
Layout features
It should be noted that these are tips rather than immutable rules. However, if you neglect them, the island will simply get in the way.
If you want to place a sink or hob on it, communications must be carried out in advance. You will also need an island hood (read what this is in this article). It costs more than usual, but it will completely solve the problem of unpleasant odors.
For comfortable movement around the kitchen, the distances from the walls and furniture to the island need to be at least 80 centimeters.
The standard length of the island is from 90 to 120 cm, and the optimal height is about 80-85 centimeters, the same as the lower section of the headset.
If you want to use the island as a dining table, make sure that the overhang of the tabletop above the base is at least 30 centimeters. Otherwise it will be uncomfortable to sit. Also, make sure that nothing will interfere with the drawers or doors that may be opened in the island.
As for combining it with a bar counter, keep in mind that in this case you will need to make a two-level tabletop. Otherwise, either the stand will be lower than it should be, or working on the island will become inconvenient.
Tip: When creating a kitchen design project, it is recommended to evaluate the arrangement not only from the top view, but also from the side. This way you will understand how comfortable it will be to work and move around the room.
Consider all this when planning a kitchen with an island. Real projects with photographs will be shown below - we are sure they will be useful to you.
Is the extra surface worth the limitations? We'll see now!
Kitchens with island combined with living room
The kitchen island fits into the studio interior. Acts as one of the methods of zoning. Serves as a transition element between parts of the room.
The best option is an island with a dining area and a bar counter. From these points you can see the living room space and you can watch TV.
Island with hob and oven Source homesfinder24.com
The transitional element is the kitchen island, one side of which belongs to the kitchen work area. On the other side there are open shelves and racks - an element of the living room interior. A sofa, a soft corner attached to the kitchen with an island, serves as a dividing line between the two zones.
The combined room is kept in the same style and color palette. Sometimes, on the contrary, contrasting tones are used.
Advantages and disadvantages
Like any other furniture, the island has both pros and cons.
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Brief summary: Of course, there are more advantages. In addition, they are all quite weighty. Therefore, if space and finances allow, choose and order the model you like.
Now let's see if there are any restrictions on the area of the room where it will fit.
Kitchen island: advantages and functions
Why do you need an island in the kitchen and what does it give? Its main advantage is that now you can cook and not look at the wall half a meter away from you. Really - exactly like that! Now there is space in front - the kitchen itself, the living room or dining room. Thus, it promotes better contact with other family members or guests. This is also an opportunity to gain access to the work surface from all sides. This allows you to organize joint work for several people - you can stand opposite each other while making sandwiches or preparing a salad. But an indispensable condition for a quality result is a competent layout and correctly selected dimensions.
Any renovation requires a thoughtful approach. Kitchen renovations are no exception. And if you decide to radically transform one of the central places of your home, then you should think about all its nuances more carefully.
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Before you make a decision and choose an island, think about the habits of your family and what function this innovation will perform. Based on this analysis, you can make an informed decision about functionality and size. Remember that the main role of this element is to improve the work of preparing food and often eating it. So this innovation in the house should not interfere with the use of the room for its intended purpose and disrupt the connection between it and other rooms in the apartment or house.
Island and kitchen area
As mentioned above, this requires a large kitchen. For example:
- Kitchen-living room 20 square meters;
- Combined with a hall, hallway or studio apartment.
However, for a small kitchen, this condition can be avoided if you choose the right configuration: a compact island or a transformer.
Experts advise choosing an option with a retractable mechanism and a folding tabletop, which can replace a dining table and provide additional work surface. And in a “passive” state, such an island is completely invisible, which frees up a lot of space in the room.
Is it difficult to imagine what this looks like in practice? Let's see photos with different types of designs.
Kitchen island with breakfast bar
A favorite design option is a kitchen island with a bar counter. It consists of two elements: the main part and the stand. The design can have a flat tabletop or two-level. In the latter case, one of the sides of the island is raised - it becomes a bar.
Peculiarities! Particular attention is paid to the dimensions of the stand. Its height should not be less than 90 cm, and its width should be at least 120 cm. At least 60 cm is allocated for each seated person.
The height of the furniture is especially important. Comfortable use depends on this parameter, especially if the owners’ height differs from the average. The depth of the bar counter varies from 50 to 65 cm.
To make it convenient to cook on the island, it should not exceed 90 cm. This is the standard height of the countertop set. There must be a passage at least 1 m wide between the island and the set. This is important for comfortable opening of cabinets and use of household appliances.
When choosing a manufacturing material, preference is given to practical options, since the durability and aesthetic appearance of the structure depend on this. Suitable for the island bar counter:
- natural stone is a noble and durable, but expensive option;
- artificial stone – combines high performance characteristics and accessibility;
- wood is a practical and elegant material, but very expensive;
- MDF and chipboard are a reliable and budget option.
A kitchen island with a bar performs functions that will help organize the space:
- Additional work area. The multi-level design easily allows you to use the island as a place for cutting food and for snacking.
- Part of the work triangle . If the layout allows, the furniture is equipped with a hob, sink and oven. To implement such an idea, space is required, so this option is suitable for spacious kitchens.
- Module for embedded technology . Often, the bar counter is equipped not only with shelves for glasses and bottles, but also with household appliances. A coffee machine or mini-fridge will be a great addition to the design.
- Storage places. The space under the island allows you to place drawers, cabinets and shelves for kitchen utensils. It is important to consider their placement so that it is comfortable to sit at the bar.
Peninsula
The location of the island depends on the layout and size of the kitchen. In a studio apartment you can install a full-fledged island with a bar counter. A closed kitchen should be square and spacious, with an area of at least 14 m².
For a small or narrow kitchen, a peninsula-shaped design is suitable. It is not installed in the center of the room, but is adjacent to one of the side walls, a set or a window sill. The arrangement preserves useful space, and the furniture does not lose its functionality.
Designers advise owners of small kitchens to take a closer look at retractable structures. The furniture looks like a narrow bar counter, but its special feature is the additional folding tabletop. It can replace a dining table or provide an additional work surface.
In a narrow and open kitchen, the structure, in addition to its main functions, will act as a partition. It will separate the work area and the relaxation area and organize the space.
American style
It is believed that this type of kitchen design came from the USA.
In general, it is characterized by natural materials and a combination of practicality and beauty. Therefore, we recommend designing an island with light wooden facades and a marble countertop. Moreover, furniture from IKEA will not work - Americans value monumentality, so you will have to find a truly impressive set.
In the kitchen-living room, it makes sense to delimit the zones using a long island with a prominent bar counter. It's convenient and looks very unusual. Turn it into a dining table with an overhanging tabletop. Due to its dimensions, there is enough space for even a large family.
Please note: According to design standards, it must follow the shape of the room. That is, square for square and rectangular for elongated.
A kitchen in the style of American classics with a stationary island is not only fashionable, but also practical. Take a closer look at how the chandelier is designed. It is surrounded by an iron cascade on which you can hang beautiful dishes and other kitchen utensils.
The decor is structurally similar to the main set - pay attention to the patina on the facades. But the color scheme is chosen in contrast. This technique makes the room visually more spacious. In this case, the main emphasis is on the center of the room - black wood is emphasized by a white background.
What is
A kitchen island is a special set, independent of other furniture. The design is compact in size and located in the center of the room. This element is often used as a dining table. If necessary, it can be supplemented with built-in appliances and can serve as a full-fledged work surface.
The island fits perfectly into different room designs, even if the living room is combined with the kitchen. The product is an optimal dividing element that serves for zoning space. The main feature of the headset is the ability to approach it from any direction, all the necessary items will always be at hand. It is very comfortable.
Among the advantages of the kit:
- Increasing the working area. By filling the empty center of the room, the usable area increases by almost 25%.
- Part of the large island can be used as a dining table; the remaining area is equipped with a sink and cutting surface.
- The set provides new shelves and cabinets for storing utensils.
- Kitchens with an island look impressive and play the role of the main accent in the interior of the room. Depending on the design, they harmonize with a variety of styles: classic, modern, loft, country and others.
- Ideal for large spaces.
Despite significant advantages, such as functionality, island models have a number of disadvantages. Headsets occupy from 1 to 3 square meters. Difficulties often arise when connecting communications to an element, because it is located in the middle of the room.
Provence style
You will need to use light, light colors and natural materials. We also recommend choosing furniture that is not too heavy in appearance, without complex textures and decorative curls.
Let's start with a very unexpected decision. Remember we wrote about the desired dimensions of the room? Meanwhile, some find a way out even for a small area of 12 sq.m.!
The sink is placed on a miniature island and space is left for a small cutting surface. This allows you to narrow the main set. True, in this case you will have to make do with a two-burner hob.
The built-in aqua-colored peninsula also looks beautiful. Such furniture does not clutter the center, making it possible to arrange a full-fledged kitchen-dining room. It is best to use this technique in large rooms with at least two windows - one for each zone.
Modern idea: This configuration is convenient if you need both a dining table and additional storage space. In addition, it is easy to do it yourself.
Classic style
In interiors decorated in restrained traditional motifs, an island is also appropriate. Try to make a kitchen in light colors, with white facades and stone countertops. The graceful patina and elegant details look amazing, especially on such a large scale.
A little tip: place a curly chandelier directly above the kitchen island. It will become the main decoration, while providing enough light above the work surface.
In the style of modern classics, the addition of non-standard textures or bright colors is welcome. We offer you this option: an island that acts as a dining table on one side, and a traditional surface with drawers on the other. Chairs of an unexpected color - for example, lilac - will help to dilute the white and beige palette.
If you decide to remove the wall between the kitchen and the room, it can be a completely worthy replacement. Place it on the border to highlight the transition between zones.
A good move is a suspended structure with a bas-relief made of stucco. It is not only beautiful, but also practical - hang pots and pans on it. True, for this they must have the appropriate appearance - old dishes are unlikely to decorate the interior.
Scandinavian style
Bright and airy kitchens are ideal for an island. Don't believe me? Now we'll prove it!
Give preference to natural textures, such as wood. Notice how multifunctional the small island is made. It combines a sink, a work surface, a dining table and a place to store books and all sorts of small items. This is the ideal solution for small spaces.
Think twice before installing an island combined with a bar counter. If you place the countertop at the optimal height for a bar, it may be uncomfortable to work on. Therefore, immediately figure out whether you can cook without discomfort.
You don't have to make it big. Miniature models also look very stylish. Especially if you add an unexpected element when decorating - for example, make the legs from rough, untreated brick. On a glossy snow-white background they look interesting and unique.
But for a spacious kitchen-living-dining room, a huge island is suitable, which combines several functions. For example, a table and a wide work surface. It is better to make it from natural materials. Wood countertops, for example, are now in fashion.
Modern style
We like this option. Minimalism in design emphasizes the beautiful textures of the countertops and the whiteness of the facades. In a fairly large room, every centimeter is used - rational, don’t you think?
It is better to make the table as simple but functional as possible. Try to combine several purposes in it - a dining area, storage space, a wide work surface.
In classic styles, rectangular or square are more often used. However, you should not limit yourself to them - round, wavy, zigzag. All this is quite feasible, especially if the space allows. We love this red and white design. It looks very stylish and catchy, becoming a dominant element of the interior.
Another option is an abstract island design. Smooth lines and elements flowing into each other attract the eye. If you don't want to crowd the room with furniture, turn it into a full-fledged work surface. A small sink, a modern hob, which at first seems like an unusual countertop decor. Fashionable and modern, isn't it?
The modern kitchen design with a 9-square island also definitely deserves attention. A rounded corner set and a tiny island look organic, and the right set of tones makes the room visually more spacious.
The combined island surface is another trendy technique. Visually divide it into three zones: cooking, work surface and countertop, which will serve as a dining table. Of course, you can hardly install such a structure in a small room. But in a large one it will be appropriate.
Kitchen with an island in a private house: placement features
Traditionally, when modeling a private house, they try to allocate sufficient space for a kitchen unit. The spacious room allows you to place an island in the kitchen. This is not so much a tribute to fashion as an opportunity to functionally complement a furniture set. The kitchen is an active area of the home, where not only food is prepared. Often, not only everyday meals, but also friendly gatherings take place in this room.
Basic requirements for setting up a kitchen:
- Ease of use.
All elements must be subject to this principle, including the placement of household appliances: refrigerator, hob or stove, oven, sink, hood. The modern kitchen is filled with various household electrical appliances. There is a food processor, mixer, blender, microwave, toaster and a host of other devices for quickly preparing food. It’s convenient to have all these elements “at hand.” But the arrangement of household appliances requires space, reducing the working surface area. A kitchen island is an opportunity to solve this problem.
Kitchen in black and white colors Source 1513.md
- Ergonomic space.
First of all, the approaches to the work area should be so free that there is no feeling of constraint or limited movement. The comfort of the location of the furniture set is an important point that designers take into account when modeling the space.
The minimum distance for passages is 1 - 1.2 m. Between the main elements of household appliances, what is called a “kitchen triangle or workbench”, it is advisable to maintain a distance of 0.8 m to 1.4 m. Sink, stove (hob), They try to install the refrigerator in one, easily accessible area. In this sense, a kitchen island is an additional opportunity to properly organize space from an ergonomic point of view. The approach to it is open from all sides. An island is a universal system where you can place almost any functional unit of a kitchen unit.
- Aesthetic appeal.
The kitchen is a place where the family spends a lot of time; it should be aesthetically attractive. It is easy to work in a pleasant environment and pleasant to eat. A kitchen with an island is not only convenient, but also beautiful.
In fact, you can match any kitchen set with a kitchen island.
Location options:
- a square or rectangle located at a certain distance from the working area;
An area in the middle of the kitchen with a sink Source familyhandyman.com
- in the form of the letters “G”, “P”, the island on one side is in contact with the working area, as if continuing it;
Solution for a small space Source deco24.access.ly
- semicircular kitchen island;
A semicircular island with a sink that acts as a dining table Source houzz.ie
- round;
- transformer, island on wheels.
The content of the kitchen island depends on the conceptual design solution. Spacious rooms are ideal for installing an island. The minimum recommended area is 15-20 square meters.
Loft style
The idea of decentralization is typical for a loft, so installing an island is the right and logical move.
If the kitchen is located in the attic, select its width flush with the flat part of the ceiling, and install a U-shaped set around the perimeter of the room. It seems like nothing complicated, but the room immediately seems stylish and modern. Use materials traditional to this style for finishing - wood, brick, concrete.
A light island with a stove combines the functions of a dining area and a hob. This is convenient, but you need to remember about safety: you still don’t need to cook and have a snack at the table at the same time, there is a risk of getting burned.
In a white kitchen, we recommend not to overload the interior with an overly complex shape of the kitchen island. It is better to limit yourself to a simple set, and focus on the design of the walls and decorative elements. In a private house, replace one of the partitions with a large window.
To summarize, we note that a kitchen island requires a serious approach. You will have to draw up a design project, think through the arrangement of furniture and carefully select all the elements.
However, if you are not afraid of difficulties, and the space allows (or you have an idea how to install it in a small kitchen), then we definitely recommend buying it! It is not only beautiful and comfortable, but also very fashionable.
