A kitchen island is a multi-functional and diverse element which can be custom made to suit your cooking requirements. Their many functions range from acting as an integral component of your kitchen work triangle to providing an extra seating area for entertaining. Here are 5 elements of a kitchen island you will need to consider to create a practical and functional island design.

Function
Before you start planning the aesthetic elements of your kitchen island, work out what main function you would like it to provide. Additional storage, extra workspace, dining area or a divide between the kitchen and living area are just some of the many tasks a custom island can provide. The function of your kitchen island will depend on the size of your kitchen and of course, your lifestyle.

Layout
Large kitchen islands can only be incorporated into your kitchen layout if it fits comfortably and there is enough working space and clearance surrounding the island. Depending on your kitchen layout, your island can be placed as a stand alone, opposite the kitchen sink to create an efficient work triangle or as an add-on to a U-shaped kitchen layout to increase functionality. Kitchen islands are great in open planned kitchen layouts as they can be used as a division between areas of your home.

Storage
If your kitchen island is not acting as an entertaining area, it can offer easily accessible storage solutions with underneath cabinets and drawers. You might choose to maximize the storage in your kitchen island by adding a unit for a built-in microwave or installing extra cabinets for your pots and pans if your island operates as your main cooking center.

Appliances
If you decide to integrate appliances and a sink into your kitchen island you will need a larger kitchen with extra space. If your kitchen island is going to be a central focal point in your kitchen, consider incorporating your primary appliances such as your sink, dishwasher and cooktop. In addition to your main preparation area you will also need a garbage and recycling unit nearby to increase the usability of your island.

Dimensions
Kitchen islands must be cohesively designed to be a suitable height for a workbench or seating area. This may mean your kitchen island height is multi-tiered to cater for one lower working side with a higher dining side to accommodate for bar stools.

Harrington Kitchens selection of customized kitchen islands can give your kitchen the extra space, storage and functionality to suit your needs.

Harrington Kitchens offers a wide variety of kitchen design and styles including:

For more information on our various kitchen designs, please visit our Gallery. Our Gallery brings together a selection of our custom kitchen designs ranging from traditional to contemporary kitchens. Each kitchen style has the flexibility to work in any home environment and can be designed to suit all tastes and budgets.

The entire Harrington Kitchens team is focused on designing kitchens that utilise premium materials and offer each and every customer the highest level of service. Harrington Kitchens partners with the best quality kitchen suppliers within the kitchen manufacturing industry and employs experienced and professional tradesmen to ensure the longevity of your custom designed kitchen.

For a free quote and free design consultation
Please contact us at Harrington Kitchens on (02) 4647 4474 or submit an online enquiryAlternatively you are welcome to visit the Harrington Kitchens Showroom at 12 Graham Hill Road Narellan NSW or 5 Old Hume Highway, Mittagong NSW.

See more great kitchen ideas in our Online Gallery.