When it comes to kitchen remodels, the island is often the centerpiece, and for good reason! Whether you’re planning a spacious prep area, a cozy dining spot, or a multi-functional workspace, designing the perfect kitchen island for your needs is essential. At Lindross, we guide clients through every detail to make sure their island fits their lifestyle (and looks amazing too)!

How Big Should Your Kitchen Island Design Be?

One of the first decisions to make is the size of your kitchen island. One of the first things we ask our clients to consider is whether they prefer a seamless countertop or don’t mind having a seam. If you’d like a single, uninterrupted surface, the island’s size will likely be limited to the dimensions of the chosen natural stone or quartz slab. While seams can be made inconspicuous, they are not entirely invisible. Keep this in mind if you're hoping for an oversized island!

Functionality also dictates size. You’ll need sufficient space around the island for easy movement and workflow, so the size and square footage of your kitchen space should dictate your island. We recommend at least 36-48 inches of clearance on all sides to maintain a balance between functionality and comfort.

Choosing the Right Style

The countertop and color of your kitchen island are central to its design, but they matter for its usage as well!

Countertop Materials

While style should factor in, the ways you’re planning to use your island have to play a part in the materials you choose for your kitchen counters. If you’re an avid baker, a durable surface like quartz or granite is ideal. They also offer a lot of heat resistance, if the quartz is treated.

If your island doubles as a workspace, smooth and low-maintenance surfaces are an excellent choice. If you have the time and ability, marble countertops exude luxury but demand careful upkeep.

By considering what you and your family will need your custom island for, you’re much more likely to choose a countertop that is beautiful, but also functional for you!

Color Choice

Some homeowners prefer a more cohesive look in their homes and kitchen design, while others love to embrace contrast. The kitchen is a great place to play around with these style choices!

Matching the island’s material and color with the rest of your kitchen will give you a polished look. Or, to make your island a statement piece, opt for a contrasting color or material. A dark island in a light kitchen or vice versa adds depth and visual interest without overwhelming the space. Whatever your design style, your color can work for you!

Designing for Functionality

You’ll want to keep the organization and layout of your kitchen island top of mind while designing.

If your island doubles as a dining table, consider incorporating extra storage space underneath ( deep drawers for pots and pans, roll-out trays for easy access, or dedicated spaces for small appliances are all excellent options). Additionally, you’ll want to make sure that the overhang provides extra space with enough legroom for comfortable seating.

For those using their island as a workspace, electrical outlets and USB ports are essential. Just remember, you’ll need to adhere to local electrical codes, which dictate the number and placement of outlets. You'll also want to be aware of how much countertop space you'll need to work efficiently!

Interested in seeing a full kitchen remodel? Check out this blog!

Deciding on a Sink or Stovetop in the Island

Adding a design element such as a sink or stovetop to your island is a great option, but requires careful planning. Here’s how to decide:

Budget Considerations: Including a sink or stovetop involves additional costs for plumbing, gas lines, and electrical work. If your budget is tight, keeping these features where existing lines are may be more practical.
Kitchen Use: For those who entertain frequently, an island sink or stovetop fosters interaction and makes cooking easier. However, traditional layouts might work better for those who prefer a separate workspace.
Number of Cooks: If multiple people cook simultaneously, a sink or stovetop in the island might be your best bet! This helps with cooking space when there are multiple chefs I the kitchen.

How We Can Help

At Lindross, we take time to understand how you’ll use your kitchen island—whether for cooking, dining, working, entertaining, or all of the above. We guide you through every decision, to make sure you end up with the kitchen island of your dreams!

With the right planning and expertise, your kitchen island can become a stunning centerpiece in your home. Reach out today, and let’s get started on your kitchen renovation!

A Comprehensive Guide on Kitchen Island Design