Islands remain one of the most popular and requested feature of new kitchens for homeowners the Upper Valley. And for good reason. Islands provide storage, countertop space for meal preparation; a place to dine, entertain, do homework and offer options to include refrigerator drawers, steam and microwave ovens, sinks and additional cooking capabilities.
There is no one-size or shape fits all solution for islands. The shape and style depends on the amount of space for an island in a kitchen, look and feel that homeowners the Upper Valley prefer and functional uses that meet homeowners’ needs, wants and dreams.
Below are popular options and the pros and cons of each:
Many homeowners the Upper Valley who are avid home chefs are particularly attracted to U-shaped islands because they provide three walls for cabinetry, appliances and seating. The main factor in selecting a U-shaped island is space. They tend to be extremely large and even if there is space for a U-shaped island, some homeowners the Upper Valley become less enamored when they realize that, because of their size, U-shaped islands are not always the most efficient to use, navigate and clean.
Rectangular islands, also known as galley islands, provide countertop space, cabinetry for storage and in some instances, depending on size, additional space for cooking and seating. Galley islands are typically specified for smaller spaces and open-concept kitchens. The downside can be that character can be compromised for functionality.
L-shaped islands, as the name implies, resemble the letter L. L-shaped islands require a lot of space and can be a great asset making use of dead space in a kitchen and separating cooking and eating areas. L-shaped islands provide an abundance of cooking space, especially if there is more than one avid cook in the family. There is sufficient room for two to operate independently and plenty of space for seating. L-shaped islands typically are not appropriate for open-concept kitchens and don’t necessarily maximize storage opportunities.
Circular-rounded islands are elegant and can serve as focal points for a dream kitchen for homeowners the Upper Valley. Circular-rounded islands require a lot of space and provide abundant room for meal preparation, eating, seating and multiple functions kitchens now serve. The downside is that the shape is not the most efficient use of space. Accessing cabinets under a circular or rounded countertops is not as easy as other types of islands.
Double islands can provide one area for meal preparation and cooking and a second area for seating, entertaining, homework, Zoom calls, et. al. Space permitting, double island kitchen are particularly appealing to homeowners the Upper Valley who like to cook and entertain.
Kitchen island tables, also known as furniture style, are typically open and smaller than other types of islands. The downside is functionality. Islands that resemble furniture pieces are generally not conducive for meal preparation, cooking or providing storage.
Which island shape or design is the perfect option for your new dream kitchen? Give us a call at 603-448-9700 to discuss the options or make an appointment to see different shapes and sizes at our showroom at 105 Hanover Street, Lebanon, NH.
