Countertop space is king in the kitchen. Whether you are prepping for an upcoming soirée, showing off your small appliances or just trying to keep all your cooking accessories organized, expanding your counters can open up new design opportunities in your home. And one of the best ways to do that is adding on a large island. This home upgrade can do everything from provide a casual dining arrangement to modernize the look of your high-tech appliances. It may seem like a small change, but this addition can make a big difference in the feel of the heart of your home.
Grab A Seat
Not all meals need to take place in an elaborate setting. Rather than enjoying a quick breakfast in the dining room, add a few sleek stools to your kitchen island to create a relaxed environment the whole family can enjoy. For those installing islands for the first time, build yours with a slight overhang so your seating can be tucked neatly into place when unoccupied. Or for those looking to refresh their kitchen’s current design, opt for stools without backs. While some may enjoy the extra support, this clean alternative ensures the lines in your room remain intact.
Heating Things Up
For those eager to jump into a remodel, a kitchen island can also be the home for your bigger appliances. Instead of keeping your stovetop pushed to the wall, place yours in the center of the room with the help of your new island. Before jumping into this project, make sure your island is big enough to hold the heat source and you have room to install a hood over the stovetop. But the final result can be an ultra-modern kitchen that stands ready for your next dinner party. Adding a built-in wine fridge or ice maker in place of an island cabinet can also be a good way to make the most of the extra space.
Wash It All Down
For those who want to make the most out of their sink space, islands are the perfect locale to enhance your kitchen’s function and style. To create a seamless look, an undermount sink provides that effortless but classic feel. But to make a statement, why not try an oldie but a goodie model? An apron-front sink, often found in homes with farmhouse interiors, can add a focal point into your kitchen while also adding a new texture into the space. A pop of white porcelain with your sink is a great way to brighten up any dark counters.