Sometimes A Kitchen Island Does Not Make Sense in a Remodeling Project

If you are a fan of HGTV or any home improvement shows, you see a kitchen island in just about every kitchen remodeling. As the kitchen evolved from a workspace hidden from guests to a place where everyone congregates, the kitchen island seemed to become a must-have feature for many homeowners. It's not surprising. A kitchen island adds work space, extra storage, and an area where family members can grab a quick bite.

But the truth is, this type of built-in feature doesn't work for everyone or in every kitchen. When planning a kitchen remodeling, you need to weigh the pros and cons of including an island and consider that creating a kitchen without an island might better meet your space and lifestyle needs.

In this article, we will examine why it might make more sense to skip the kitchen island altogether.

First, Some Important Kitchen Design Considerations

Putting an island into a small kitchen that might not have the space can be a big mistake. For an island to function, there must be enough space between the island and the cabinetry to accommodate more than one person and not obstruct the dishwasher or oven doors. You want to have a minimum of 42 inches of open space around the island to function properly.

Have you defined how you will use your island? A kitchen island can perform any of the five functions of the kitchen - storage, food prep, cooking, serving, and cleaning up. Before you decide if an island is right for you, you should identify which functions your island will perform. This will impact the width and depth of your island, especially if you need space for appliances.

Finally, should you include seating? Not every island needs knee space for seating. This decision falls under defining your space. To decide what's best for your family, consider how much seating you need at your island (especially if there's a big dining table directly next to it) and how much space you need for essentials. In a smaller kitchen, it might make sense to skip the room for stools to maximize storage space.

Ultimately, your decision starts with the available space and what functions you'd like your island to perform.

Do You Really Need A Kitchen Island?

The truth is that every kitchen space is unique in terms of what can be done when remodeling. Each kitchen remodel comes with its own set of challenges and homeowner needs. In an older home, space can be at a premium, and frankly, some kitchens work better without an island. Some may work better with a peninsula instead. It really depends on how the space works best.

Sometimes, a smaller movable workspace or island-height table might be a better option. It can always be pushed away if you need the space and brought out when needed. It's also important to understand that while an island brings functionality to a kitchen, it comes at a cost. An island is a permanent installation that offers limited flexibility. An island will also need electric service and plumbing if a sink is included. This can add a layer of cost to a project, and depending on your needs, it may not be necessary.

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Many homeowners feel they want an island, but in a small kitchen, it just may not be feasible. It is often better to create a kitchen that works well with a table or peninsula or incorporate a galley kitchen design. These options can function well and, if carefully designed, meet the many homeowner's needs.

Whether to include a kitchen island or not comes down to available space, proper planning, and meeting your family's unique needs.

Trust The Kitchen Design Experts!

Working with a design-build professional can help you to decide if an island is right for you. They have the experience and understanding of what is needed regarding space. They will also work closely with you to define your needs and offer design alternatives like adding a peninsula instead of an island.

A kitchen island should be a seamless addition to your dream kitchen. It should never make it feel crowded or impact the functionality of the space. Working with a professional designer can help you reach an informed decision, and whatever your decision, ensure it will be the best option for your family and give you a kitchen that you'll love for years!

If you're considering a kitchen remodeling project and unsure if an island is right for you, let us show you all the options available! If you live in the Greater Madison area, contact the experts at Degnan Design-Build-Remodel. Let us help you to take your home to the next level of comfort, design, and function! Ready to learn more? We're always happy to answer your questions.