How to choose a kitchen island | Guide

Choosing the right kitchen island is about so much more than just design and dimensions – it’s a decision that shapes the whole feel of your kitchen. The kitchen island is not just a work surface or a storage space, it often becomes the heart of the kitchen – a gathering point where everyday life meets celebration, where morning coffee is shared and dinners are given time.

But how do you know which kitchen island is best for your home and lifestyle? This is where our guide comes in. We guide you through the most important aspects you should consider: from how big your kitchen is to what you actually want to use the kitchen island for, what materials will last over time – and how to maximize both function and aesthetics.

Whether you’re planning a complete renovation or just want to elevate your existing kitchen, we’ll help you make informed choices that enhance both the feel and function of the space. With the right planning, your kitchen island won’t just be beautiful – it will be natural.

How big is your kitchen?

A kitchen island may be a dream for many people – but it’s important to make sure it works in practice. The first thing to consider is the size and layout of your kitchen. A well-designed kitchen island shouldn’t restrict the flow of the room – it should facilitate it.

Make sure there is enough space

To be able to move freely around a kitchen island, you need at least 100-120 cm of free space all around. This applies to both in front of cabinets, between walls and at any seating areas. If you have plenty of space, a larger island with multiple functions may be the right choice. If you have a smaller kitchen, a more compact solution – for example, a narrow kitchen island or a peninsula in line with other work surfaces – may be sufficient.

Function before form

It can be tempting to go for a big, impressive kitchen island – but if it leaves you barely able to open the oven door or pull out the drawers, the solution loses its point. Think about how you move around the kitchen today. Where is the sink, stove and fridge? A well-placed kitchen island should enhance your workflow, not disrupt it.

Mark out your kitchen island

An easy way to test whether a kitchen island will fit in your space is to mark the intended size with masking tape directly on the floor. This will give you a sense of how the island affects the room, and whether it leaves enough space for you to move around naturally.

What will you use the kitchen island for?

It is important to consider the purpose of the kitchen island already in the planning phase. Is it to be a workstation for cooking? A social centerpiece? A stylish storage space? Or maybe all at once?

A social hub

For many, the kitchen island is a place to gather around. With bar-height seating, it becomes a natural place for breakfast, homework, a glass of wine with guests or just everyday conversations while cooking. It blurs the line between kitchen and living room and often becomes the place where life happens.

Workspace and storage

If you have a smaller kitchen or simply want to maximize functionality, the island can be an invaluable addition. With generous work surfaces and clever under-counter storage, you’ll have room for everything from kitchen appliances and pots to sorting and garbage systems – without compromising on aesthetics.

Integrated functions

For those who dream of a real working kitchen, the kitchen island can also accommodate a hob, sink or built-in wine fridge. This requires careful planning – both in terms of ventilation, electricity and plumbing, but also the flow of the room. When done right, the result is a seamless and functional solution that takes the kitchen experience to the next level.

Multiple functions in one

It is common to combine several needs in one kitchen island. For example, a hob at one end, seating at the other and storage under the entire surface. A bespoke solution allows you to tailor every detail – both visually and practically – to how you want to live in your kitchen.

Choose the right material for your kitchen island

The choice of material is crucial to both the feel and durability of your kitchen island. It’s where function, aesthetics and personal style meet – and it’s important to choose carefully. The right material not only enhances the design, but also affects how you use the kitchen island in everyday life. Do you want a robust work surface, a luxurious feel or a natural look?

Wood

Wood is a timeless choice that gives a warm and inviting feel. It works equally well in modern settings as in classic kitchens, especially when you want to create an organic and harmonious look. Solid wood or veneer adds character and ages beautifully – but requires some care. A perfect choice if you want your kitchen island to feel alive and unique.

Suitable for those who: value natural materials and like the feeling of a kitchen that gets patina over time.

Stone

Natural stone such as marble or granite creates an exclusive feel and serves as both a work surface and aesthetic statement. Each slab is unique in its pattern. For a more durable alternative, there are composite materials such as Dekton or Silestone – hard-wearing, stain-resistant and ideal for an active kitchen life.

Suitable for those who: want an expressive and durable material with a wow factor.

Ceramics

Ceramic worktops are a trendy choice for modern kitchens. They are extremely resistant to heat, scratches and stains, and come in a wide range of colors and finishes – from matte to high-gloss. The material is easy to clean and retains its look year after year.

Suitable for those who: seek modern functionality combined with stylish design.

Tips to maximize the functionality of the kitchen island

A beautiful kitchen island is great – but a well-planned kitchen island is essential. Here are our top tips for making your kitchen island a smart, versatile and inspiring part of your home. Whether you have a large family kitchen or a more compact space, there are tricks to make the most of every square inch.

1. design for both work and play

A truly functional kitchen island combines multiple uses. Think workbench on one side and bar area with seating on the other. This creates a natural zone for socializing and makes the kitchen island a social hub – without disrupting the flow of the kitchen.

2. Make smart use of storage

Forget empty spaces – use base cabinets to the max. Deep drawers, hidden sorting systems and special solutions for pots, trays or wine racks make a big difference in everyday life. Think about what you want to keep close at hand and let the kitchen island work for you.

3. plan the lighting with care

A functional kitchen island requires the right light. Combine general lighting with mood lighting – for example, pendant lights above the island to add character, and integrated lighting in drawers or under the worktop for extra impact and function. Lighting makes a big difference to both atmosphere and ease of use.

4. think height and ergonomics

The countertop should be adapted to your height and function – a cooking surface often requires a different height than a bar counter. Similarly, storage and appliances should be positioned to avoid unnecessary bending or lifting.

5. integrating electrical outlets

Are you planning to use the kitchen island as a work surface or a place for kitchen appliances? Then electrical outlets are a must. Hidden solutions, such as recessed sockets or pop-up units, give you functionality without spoiling the visual appearance.

Inspiration from real projects

Choosing a kitchen island is as much about feel as function. For those looking for kitchen inspiration where every detail is well thought out and every solution has a place, we’d like to share some of our favorites from our own customer projects. All kitchens are bespoke and designed to reflect the life that goes on in them.