Pros and Cons of an Island Kitchen

Island Kitchen Layouts: Kitchen islands have become pretty much the norm rather than the exception in kitchen design. One of every two new homes built have one. As many advantages as there are to an island, there are also some disadvantages. Let's take a look at some of both and from there you can make your own decision.

Top view of an Island Kitchen

Pros:

• Added counter spaces, added storage space, and sometimes even an additional work space or cook top are just some of the positives. 
• The added counter space and storage space are the main reasons people install them, but islands are manufactured or can be designed to fit almost any purpose. 
• Also, they have the advantage of being able to be renovated, allowing for more flexibility in room arrangement.
• Looks great, especially in a spacious kitchen.
• Invites socializing and discussion, since guests can crowd around the island countertop or it permits the cook and his assistants to take an active part in the socializing.
• For snacks and quick meals, you can come together at your island if it has seating.
• Island kitchens provide the ultimate connection between your kitchen and open-plan living spaces.
• When preparing food, the counter space can be easily gobbled up by toaster ovens, microwaves, coffee makers, and various other countertop appliances. 
• An island can be used solely for cooking and preparation, and some homeowners have incorporated cutting boards and a prep sink into the design of the island.
• Islands also can be customised according to a homeowner’s needs. Instead of cabinetry, you can have a wine cooler or even a bookshelf for keeping cookbooks within reach.
• Enlarges Preparation and Cooking Space
• Have multi-purposes. It can provide a place to eat (with stools), to prepare food (with a sink) and to store beverages (with a wine cooler).
• The island can turn a one-wall kitchen into a galley style, and an L-shaped layout into a horseshoe.

Island Kitchen by Nolte

Cons: 

• Not suitable for small kitchens 
• Unless you have a large kitchen, it takes up more kitchen floor space and reduces the Available Space in the Kitchen
• Has a tip-over risk. It would be better to child-proof your island to prevent injury.
• Can make the kitchen feel cramped if the island is too big for the space so it’s best in a medium to large size kitchen.
• Again you may have a bigger investment as an island means additional cabinets and countertops.
• There’s nowhere to hide. Your kitchen is on display and the pressure to keep it clean is greater. 
• The open connection between kitchen and living area means there is little separation when it comes to noise and activity.
• In smaller kitchens, an island may be impractical because of the space limitation. 
• Islands may interfere with walking space or cause clearance issues when the refrigerator door or cabinet doors are open. 
• For homeowners who find space is at a premium in the kitchen, an island may not be the best idea. 

Click here for Pros and Cons of a Straight Kitchen.