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Kitchen Island Mistakes You Should Avoid at All Costs

June 10, 2023

Kitchen Island Mistakes

Kitchen Island is a fantastic addition to have in your home. It is the main attraction in a home, it is a space where a flavorsome meal is prepared. When creating a kitchen island it is important to choose the right size and option and not make it wonky or disproportionate in any way. With our experience creating custom-made kitchens, here are some island kitchen mistakes you should avoid when making your home. 

Not Considering Kitchen Size

One of the biggest mistakes people make when it comes to kitchen islands is choosing the wrong size. Size matters in the kitchen too. The same goes for walkways around it. If you have a small kitchen, a large island can make the space feel cramped and hinder movement. On the other hand, if your kitchen is spacious, a small island may look out of place and not serve its purpose effectively. It’s important to find the right balance between island size and kitchen size.

Forcing an Island

Another common mistake is not considering workflow when designing your kitchen island. Many of us think that the bigger the island in a kitchen, the better. However, an island is not a very practical solution if you have a small kitchen space. This happens when the homeowner tries to force an island into a small kitchen space without considering its layout. The solution to this is to make an L-shaped countertop rather than an island. This way, you still have the extra space for working, dining, and preparing meals. Additionally, choosing compact appliances and maximizing vertical storage can also help make the most of a small kitchen space. Another option is to consider removing unnecessary walls or adding windows to create the illusion of more space.

Ignoring Lighting

Proper lighting is essential for any kitchen, and this includes your kitchen island. Make sure to install task lighting above the island to provide adequate illumination for cooking and food preparation. Additionally, consider adding pendant lights or chandeliers to enhance the aesthetic appeal of your kitchen island. Not only will proper lighting improve functionality, but it can also create a warm and inviting atmosphere for family and guests to gather around during meals. Don’t underestimate the impact that lighting can have on the overall look and feel of your kitchen.

Wrong Surface Material

Picking a surface material for an island can be a daunting decision when there are so many materials to choose from. Incorporating materials such as granite or quartz into the countertop can add both style and durability to the space. However, choosing the wrong surface material can lead to problems such as scratches, stains, and even cracks. It is important to consider factors such as maintenance, cost, and overall aesthetics when selecting a surface material for your island.

No Breakfast Counter

A table and seating do make the island kitchen a true heaven. But if you expect socialization and the room doesn’t have enough space for the seating options, optimize them to include a breakfast counter within the kitchen island. This not only provides additional seating but also creates a designated area for casual dining. It’s also important to consider storage when designing your kitchen island, as it can quickly become cluttered without proper organization.

Not Hiring an Interior Design Team

With an interior design team, you can be confident you’ll get the perfect kitchen island that complements your kitchen design. They can help you choose the right materials, colors, and finishes that will enhance the overall look and feel of your kitchen. Moreover, an interior design team can also ensure that you do not commit any kitchen island mistakes and that your kitchen island is functional and meets your specific needs. They can help you optimize the storage space, add extra seating, or incorporate appliances into the island design. With their expertise, you can have a beautiful and practical kitchen island that will elevate your cooking and dining experience.