Why choose an island kitchen for your home?

Island kitchens are quite well-known when it comes to kitchen designs, offering open space and lots of work areas. But how beneficial are they actually as a kitchen? We've taken a look at the good (and the bad) to answer that exact question.

To help you decide whether an island kitchen is the best kitchen design to suit your needs, keep reading. We have put together the pros and cons and a few extra tips and tricks to assist. For any further information or assistance, give Haddon Kitchens a call on 07 3204 0399 today.

What is an island kitchen?

An island kitchen is a kitchen that has freestanding cabinetry, otherwise known as an 'island', located within the room.

The island bench is commonly also seen with L shape designs or in a galley situation and can be a great addition, if space allows, to a single-line kitchen.

What advantages do island kitchens offer?

• Open-plan style design.
• Allows for multiple workstations.
• Great for entertaining.
• Great for a busy home as it can allow more room for multiple cooks.
• Can make a larger kitchen more manageable and cosy.
• One of the most versatile kitchen designs.
• Islands can accommodate a sink, microwave, wine fridge or grill, etc.
• Extra storage options are available on an island cabinet.
• Options for appliance placement are endless.
• Island benches can also accommodate bar stools and work as a breakfast bar.

What disadvantages do island kitchens offer?

• Kitchen workflow can be limited with this layout.
• Islands take up space, so consider if your kitchen has enough room for it to be taken up by an island.
• Islands can become a nuisance if not sized correctly when being installed.
• Islands are an extra cost, so see if your budget can factor one in.

Aspects to consider when looking at island kitchens

There is a range of points to consider when looking at whether an island kitchen is the best option for your needs:

• What is your budget?
• How big is your kitchen going to be? How much space do you have to work within?
• What fixtures and fittings do you currently have and where are they located?
• Are you wanting to relocate plumbing, gas and/or electrical points? Does your budget include adding additional points?
• What are you wanting to use your kitchen for? Just for cooking, or for entertaining as well?
• How many people will use the space? Will they all be using your kitchen at the same time?

Who would benefit from an island kitchen?

• Anyone looking for an open kitchen space.
• Anyone who would like large amounts of bench space.
• Anyone who is looking to entertain, as well as cook, in their kitchen.
• Anyone who is looking for extra storage space within easy reach (on the island).
• Anyone who has multiple cooks using the kitchen at once.

If you would like some further information regarding island kitchens or any other kitchen designs, give Haddon Kitchens a call on 07 3204 0399 and we can discuss all your kitchen needs today.