There are several solutions to explore for making cramped spaces more efficient with kitchen island ideas for small kitchens. The kitchen is probably the room in most peoples’ living spaces that they would like to remodel, or the room that has the strongest impact in sealing the deal on a new home. With today’s economy and lack of job security, an entirely new kitchen or home may seem out of reach, but this is not so.
Experts say that the three things to keep in mind when planning on remodeling the kitchen are; storage, lighting and appliances. All good kitchen island design ideas should begin with storage. With the central location inherent to an island, the storage facilitates the immediacy of kitchenwares.
The top surface can be used as both a work and serving surface. A countertop that is a bright color and lighting fixtures mounted above are good kitchen island ideas that will really open up the space of a small kitchen. There a many durable surfaces on the market that wear well, and are easy to maintain.
If the house or apartment has a sink with double compartments, replacing it with a sink of thirty inches or greater actually creates more efficiency with built in cutting boards and strainers. Also, the sink is large enough to clean oven racks or refrigerator shelves. This can be built in to most kitchen island design ideas, as it creates the most centralized utility.
Appliance choice can also play into kitchen island ideas. Most European appliance manufacturers market smaller more efficient appliances, such as 24 inch deep refrigerators instead of 30 inches. Most US companies have similar products to compete with, such as smaller capacity dishwashers or compact range tops worth considering in your kitchen island design ideas.
Care should be taken with kitchen island ideas for small kitchens however, so that there is enough clearance for everyday traffic and to easily open and close cabinet doors or drawers. Also if your kitchen island design ideas include being a serving area with seating, enough of an overhang of the counter surface should be included to provide for storage of barstools, and to comfortably sit and dine at the island.
Other kitchen island design ideas for small kitchens involve repurposing already existing furniture and fixtures. A commercial workbench, a heavy-duty farm table or sturdy vintage cabinet can all be modified to fit the needs of a small kitchen. This can be the easiest way to add style and flair to a lackluster space. A worn enameled top surface or distressed wood like a butcher’s block, even modern stainless steel can become the kitchen’s focal point.
Resources abound for those looking for kitchen island ideas for small kitchens. There are so many sources for great ideas online and in print. If you choose to go with an island that is plumbed or wired, consult with a contractor. If you are repurposing an existing fixture, be sure it is in good enough condition structurally to withstand daily use. Your kitchen island design ideas should be stylish, but practical to fit into your particular lifestyle.
