Islands are the most requested feature of new kitchens by homeowners the Upper Valley and for good reason. Given the multifunctional role the kitchen plays, islands offer additional space for performing homework, working remotely, preparing meals, storing essentials and socializing. The features that are included in an island reflect the priorities and usage goals of homeowners the Upper Valley. That’s why when discussing how you want your dream kitchen to perform, tell your designer how you and other family members plan to use your new kitchen and how you want it to perform.
Island Options
Having room to sit is the most frequent request of island functionality among homeowners the Upper Valley. The number and dimensions of the seats depend the size of the kitchen and island and how you use your kitchen. If the primary reasons are to work from home or kids doing homeowner, you may only need or want seats that face in one direction. This may be the preferred option for homeowners the Upper Valley that don’t have a lot of space in their kitchen. Alternatively, if the seating will be primarily used for family meals or socializing, having room for seats on both sides of the island or on one side and on the ends may be a preferred option. A rule of thumb is that you need two feet between each chair for comfortable seating.
The height of the island also influences seating. While most tables are 36 inches high, we often recommend taller island that want to include seating because almost every homeowner the Upper Valley uses their island for meal preparation and that is typically performed standing. A 42-inch tall island makes it easier to use the island for multiple tasks.
A well-designed kitchen is an organized kitchen. Islands also provide valuable storage space and, when possible, we often recommend at least two and at best four sided storage. Multiple power outlets with charging capabilities have become island staples to make it easy to work at your island or do homeowner not to mention to power small appliances.
The countertop is the workhorse of the island. Quartz has become the countertop of choice for islands among homeowners the Upper Valley. Quartz is durable, easy to clean, heat resistant, stain resistant and able to meet any style preference. Other popular high-performing countertop materials include slate, granite, marble and natural stone.
Great islands feature great lighting that provide the necessary illumination to perform tasks that you want to do in your dream kitchen, but also to provide the look and feel you want to experience. Combinations of recessed, under-cabinet, in-cabinet, pendants, or chandeliers provide the layers of light to make your dream kitchen perform and look the way you want and need it to.
Other popular features that are incorporated into islands include:
- Beverage or wine refrigerators
- Steam or microwave ovens
- Recycling centers
- Prep sinks
- Shelving to showcase cookbooks, vases, heirlooms, etc.
What features and performance requirements will make the island in your new dream kitchen the envy of your neighborhood? Give us a call at 603-448-9700 or make an appointment to visit us at 105 Hanover Street, Lebanon, NH and let us show you how to make your dream a reality.
