The kitchen is indeed the hub of everyday life for busy families and cooks. In this space, elegance and functionality are more crucial than it has ever been.
In the past, kitchens were secluded areas where food was cooked out of sight of the family and visitors. Although some kitchens included portals for transferring food into the dining room, the majority of the kitchen’s prep space was hidden.
Today, the kitchen appears to receive more attention than any other room in the house. This is so because, from being a food preparation hub, the kitchen has evolved into that singular room that performs so many crucial tasks while also hosting numerous social activities. A considerable percentage of family gathering time is spent in the kitchen.
What then has changed in the general aesthetics? Kitchens now display a homogeneous space with a big span of dark cabinetry and stainless steel.
Cabinets are the component that most distinguishes a kitchen, but they now have an entirely new feel. The grained textures of natural wood are no longer seen in newer cabinet designs. Now, cabinets have evolved into kitchen islands which are a true symbol of the contemporary kitchen.
Why kitchen islands?
Kitchen islands almost have the same effect as a cozy house fireplace. It is the ideal place for the entire family to congregate and unwind while cooking, having fun, and spending time together. No modern kitchen, in the eyes of many homeowners, is complete without a kitchen island. But what exactly is a kitchen island good for?
- They are more useful and useable than the typical countertops and cabinets placed against walls since they can be used from all sides, making the most of your available space.
- Since they can resemble furniture in both appearance and feel, so they become a true focal point of your kitchen. You may add furniture such as kitchen barstools to design a special lounge area for you, your visitors, and your family.
- They can easily be a cleaning facility.
- A kitchen island offers the luxury of modern living for you and your family. It can easily accommodate numerous cooks, dinner guests, and kids doing schoolwork while you cook. It can even serve as your office temporarily.
- Kitchen islands conveniently mixes design and functionality. They make a decorative statement and draw attention to the overall design of the kitchen. They are a necessary component of the modern kitchen, whether it’s a straightforward cabinet with the regular meat-chopping top or an intricate, tailored cabinet with all the accessories you can think of.
Types of Kitchen islands
The more common type of kitchen island is a single surfaced cabinet that encloses a countertop that resembles a table, typically with a laminated top or with more expensive materials like acrylic or marble. This kind can also be a makeshift dining space if adjoined with high stools. Other choices include asymmetrical and multi-level cabinets with sinks, cookers, wine cellars, shelves, and other features. Due to these various modifications, the islands can have multiple workspaces that can accommodate two or more people.
There are several reasons you would prefer one island style over another. If you’d rather have a professional sort every aspect of your kitchen renovation, then kitchen renovations in Canberra will be of better help to you than this article. If you want to have a say in your kitchen design, then this may help you make the best choice.
L-shaped
This kind fills up the empty area with additional storage and flows easily with the layout of the kitchen. The roomy layout of the L-shaped islands guarantees that the workspace isn’t cramped which is a significant benefit for houses with multiple cooks or ardent chefs. It won’t be difficult to locate space for bar seats in your kitchen.
Furniture islands
Furniture islands are an unusual option that can transform your kitchen into the center of your home. They come with the option of including drawers or a custom-made piece made by a local carpenter.
Whether it is custom-made or a vintage piece, furniture gives your kitchen an interesting personality. It is one way to add your distinctive style to the area and make it uniquely yours. Visitors will be drawn in by the furniture’s intricate design and decorative elements. These items typically don’t take up much space and fit perfectly in your kitchen.
On the other hand, not all furniture is made for storage, so it may not be able to hold much of your stuff. Meanwhile, there is also the question of durability. There can be damage from wear and tear as furniture tops are not as durable as granite or quartz.
Curved/ circular islands
A circular island can be the solution for you if you want to give your kitchen a unique visual dynamic. A half circle or a full circle is what this type looks like, and they are a good choice if you want something different from the typical island layout. They provide more than enough space to work while preparing meals. However, circular designs don’t always make the best use of cooking and storage space.
Rolling island
No space for an integrated island? Not a problem. Rolling islands are a practical substitute. As you move about your kitchen, you may whirl them about, and when you’re done cooking, you can keep them away neatly.
Galleys
Galley islands have a simple design with fewer decorations, meaning they are made for work. If there is enough room for one, they can work well in almost any kitchen design. Galleys are frequently regarded as the standard island design for an open-concept kitchen, guaranteeing that your area allows for easy flow and is kept functional with a streamlined style. While they are practical and straightforward, some may find them dull and won’t do much to impress visually unless they have a detailed exterior.
In conclusion, if you’re planning on installing a kitchen island, you must be ready for it financially. Sometimes, the project can go overboard, taking longer and costing more than what you have in mind. On the good side, kitchen renovations are certain to raise the value of your house and enhance your quality of living.
