Kitchen Islands Reflect Current Trends

Homeowners who are lucky enough to have a kitchen island would likely attest to the fixture’s role as the workhorse of the kitchen. Architects and contractors who add islands to their cabinet design software can alter the location and appearance of the structure to maximize the functionality of your kitchen. Let’s take a look at some of the trends in islands just a case a remodel is in your future. You can learn more about design software by visiting 2020Spaces.com.

Configuration

Although most kitchen islands are situated in the center of the space, there are some variations in shape and placement that can be visualized using cabinet design software. If the room is long, a rectangular island is most common; square rooms call for square islands. In other cases, the island may be L-shaped with different functions planned for different parts of the fixture. The island placement should be at a logical distance from other cabinets and counters but still seem to be appropriately centered in the room. In some cases the island is attached – more like a peninsula – to other cabinetry, but still offers all the functions usually associated with kitchen islands.

Lighting

When you see photos of finished kitchens that feature islands, you will notice that the preferred lighting method by far is pendant fixtures. These make a lot of sense because not only do they have a lot of stylistic impact, they also provide and architectural element to the center of the room. Other homeowners choose modern tract light for over the fixture, often with interesting curvy or circular configurations. Tract light allow residents to aim light to where it’s most needed on the island, such as over the bar area where children might be doing homework.

Materials

The most common material for islands is wood, though you might be able to explore other options using cabinet design software. In some cases, the wooden structure might be wrapped with decorative metal elements, glass tiles or other textural materials. There are dozens of countertop options available for islands, from quartz to concrete to butcher block.

Appliances

There is almost always a supplemental or main sink located in a kitchen island, which facilitates simpler food prep. But there also may be any number of appliances that may be built in. Cooktop – ranges without an attached oven – is a popular choice, and dishwashers commonly are found there as well. Many newer kitchens are created with shallow ovens, tiny freezers and small-load dishwashers situated in drawers in the island for extra convenience.

Bonuses

In addition to pure functionality, kitchen islands can be included using cabinet design software to boost the visual appeal of the space. For example, if the kitchen in mainly monochromatic, the island can be an opportunity for a big pop of color in the room. It can also boost resale value as an eat-in seating option or opportunity for additional storage.

There are many good reasons for the popularity of functional islands among the trends of modern kitchen design. One of these might be perfect for pushing you to add an island.

John Trinh has been writing for 10+ years. He first delved into the world of writing when he wrote his first article for his university's paper.