Kitchen Islands that Work Overtime
From Margaret on August 5th, 2010 in Kitchen Remodel
Kitchen islands do many things. They provide an extra work surface, shelving and storage. They add a sink to the kitchen, bar seating, extra outlets for appliances. And they can become art in and of themselves and set a distinct aesthetic tone. If, as Julia Child said, the kitchen is the heart of the home, then the island is a ventricle, drawing in social activity and energy, and sending out great food. Here are some astoundingly different and beautiful kitchen islands.
Simple in design and function, this table on wheels unites the kitchen area (cooking/eating surface) and the library (work table), with its multiple purposes, while on the other hand distinguishing the narrow but open space. For a party, this table could be pushed aside as another serving table, allowing for more open floor space.
Sleek and steel, this large island makes up half the kitchen with its drawers, shelving, bar area and stove. Such a set-up creates plenty of cooking space within close proximity, allowing the chef to simply turn rather than move across an entire kitchen.
Sleek and substantial, this granite-top surface can be a cutting board, hot pot surface and serving area. Though the rest of this kitchen has plenty of storage and utensils for fine fare, the surface area for preparing food is actually limited, which makes this central preparing surface necessary for a lone chef or group-participating dinner party.
On the more bucolic side, this island integrates smoothly into the overall kitchen space, creating alleys and channels for traveling through the kitchen. Though it’s an obvious extra component to the build-in kitchen structures, this island matches perfectly in look and height and allows for a discreet uber-functional piece.
This sleek island integrates beautifully into this classic American kitchen area while providing a convenient wine cellar. With a full modern kitchen, dining area, comfortable work space, great view and wine choices, one would rarely need to leave this beautiful room.
Photo Credit: Mrs Limestone & Arch and Home Interior
August 27th, 2010 at 12:56 pm
Margaret, the variety of islands that you included is great. For your readers with limited space, an island may be difficult to fit into the kitchen. However, peninsulas are a great alternative to an island, providing the same qualities. A peninsula is similar to an island except that it is attached to the counter top at one end. Like an island, it provides storage and work space, while allowing access from multiple sides. By placing stools on one side, you can turn your peninsula into a breakfast table or work area as well.