By Justine Olivier
The kitchen island has evolved over the centuries. It offers plenty of usage options, from being an attractive and functional room divider and an informal dining area, to a food preparation and cooking counter.
One cannot overlook two of the most pivotal influencing factors of the island, namely size and placement. One should ensure that there is enough room to move around the island without it becoming restrictive. Craig Russell, of Easylife Kitchens, says that “it is vital that the island does not cross over the path one would walk in the kitchen – the work triangle – as it will then be an obstacle as opposed to an aid. If the kitchen is not big enough to walk around the island it would make sense to place one of the functional zones (a point of the work triangle) on the island, and turn the island into a destination”.
As space dictates the size of the island, so does function dictate the lighting options. Ingenious use of a bright task light is perfect for preparing or displaying meals, especially those with a dimmer as brightness can be adjusted accordingly to enhance the overall ambience. Alternatively, pendant lights could provide another satisfactory option. Craig adds that pendant lights work well on an island as you can lower your light source without the risk of bumping your head.
If done correctly the kitchen island can add immense value to the kitchen. While it boasts many advantages, none supersede the fostering of social relations – as people standing around the island face one another and interact far better as opposed to those working side by side as one would do at a normal counter.
Whatever your reason for wanting a kitchen island, you can truly make it an eye pleasing delight without it becoming a cumbersome annoyance.
With thanks to blu-line living, Easylife Kitchens, SieMatic, www.wikipedia.org
