Given its functionality and often limited space, your kitchen can be the most complicated place in your home to design. And placing a kitchen island in your Mississauga home is an even more difficult job.
There are no set rules for designing the perfect kitchen island design. But kitchen companies in Mississauga like CGD can provide some factors to consider.
Questions You Should Ask Before Designing a Kitchen Island
1. What Is the Function of the Island?
Kitchen islands serve many purposes. They can be storage, a cooking or dining space, or all of the above.
Before you design your island, be sure about what you want it to do. After all, it should look good and be functional as well. Where do you want the emphasis to be: on eating, cleaning, cooking, entertaining, or all of these?
If you will be using it for cooking, you will need space for appliances and sinks, so you will need more space. If you are using it for eating and entertainment, you will need a place to sit. Starting here will help you understand what size and type of island you need.
2. What Appliances Will You Need?
If you are using it for cooking, you may need to integrate appliances and a sink. If the main sink is on the island, you will need a dishwasher. Then you will need to decide whether you want it to the right or left of the sink. If you are using the island for preparation, you will have to think about keeping a garbage bin, compost, and/or recycling nearby.
If you have a big kitchen and your refrigerator is not nearby, you might consider keeping a smaller one under the counter. If you are installing a cooktop, you will have to think about installing an exhaust or chimney as well. It might not be possible to put everything on the island but try to get at least the top five features.
3. What Storage Capacity Do You Need?
If your kitchen already has sufficient storage, this might not be a priority. If you will be using it for food preparation and cooking, you will be keeping the cooktop and other appliances. You will also need a place for utensils and cutting boards.
If you do need storage space, you may have to consider the size of the island and installing cabinets and drawers underneath. Two back-to-back 24-inch base cabinets will accommodate most under-island functions. Make sure the designers of your kitchen island in Mississauga utilize every inch of space efficiently.
4. The Height of the Counter
If you are going to cook, make sure the counter is at a comfortable height so you don’t have to exert yourself. Everything should be within your reach, and you should be able to use every inch of the island.
If you are using it for entertainment and eating, you will have to determine the seating height. So, do you have 36- or 42-inch bar stools? There is an advantage to having a 42-inch bar stool.
You can design the island on two levels: the working side can be a little lower for prep work; the dining side can be higher to accommodate the stools. However, if you have a defined eating area, 36-inch bar stools will be enough.
5. How Will It Fit into Your Kitchen Layout?
Your kitchen is likely the busiest space in your home, and that means every part should be cohesively designed. Make sure the island is in sync with the rest of the kitchen. It should be able to complete the kitchen work triangle of the sink, stove, and refrigerator. Make sure there’s comfortable walking space between the island and fridge or shelves, and that you don’t keep stubbing your toes.
It is ideal to have three feet of floor space on both sides of the island. There should be a minimum of 42 inches of space on the working side of the island, but keep it under 60 inches.
By keeping these things in mind, you can design the perfect kitchen island. Then consult with our experts to get it made. We’re happy to help make your kitchen a space that’s both functional and beautiful.