Kitchen Islands & Carts

Choosing the right size for a kitchen island depends on several factors. The available space, the layout of your kitchen, and your day-to-day needs should play the biggest part in your decision. A general guideline is to allocate about 30 to 36 inches of space per person for comfortable seating at the island. For functionality, aim for a width of at least 2 feet and a length that complements the kitchen's proportions without overwhelming the space. Consider leaving ample clearance around the island — ideally 3 feet — for smooth traffic flow and ease of movement in the kitchen.

A kitchen island is a freestanding countertop or workspace typically situated in the center of a kitchen. They offer a variety of storage options to maximize organization and efficiency in the kitchen. Some common storage features are cabinets with adjustable shelves, drawers for utensils and smaller items, and open shelving for displaying cookware or decorative pieces. Some islands may also incorporate specialized storage solutions such as wine racks, spice racks, or built-in bins for recycling and composting. Incorporating features like pull-out trash bins or built-in appliances like dishwashers or microwaves can really optimize space and functionality in the kitchen.

In small kitchens, space-saving kitchen island options optimize functionality without overcrowding the area. Compact or narrow kitchen island designs provide additional workspace and storage without dominating the room. Rolling or portable kitchen islands offer an extra amount of flexibility as you can move them around as needed for meal preparation or entertaining. 

A butcher block cart or table can serve as a versatile and mobile alternative to a fixed island. It acts as a surface for chopping, serving, and storage without subtracting significantly from the amount of room in the kitchen. On top of these options, incorporating multi-functional features like drop-leaf countertops or fold-out seating can maximize space in tight quarters.