Space and arrangement are the two main obstacles you’re bound to face when looking to add a freestanding unit— or a small kitchen island to your interior.
These two factors are a sticking point for the right reasons. You wouldn’t want to (1) add an irrelevant installation and ruin your design or (2) build an island that will disrupt workflow in your pantry.
Interior Designers are invaluable professionals because they know what to do to rise above such challenges. But if you’re not hiring someone to do your island then these clues should be your guiding light.
Use what You Have!
A professional interior designer may apply many other principles but one trick holds the key to an excellent small kitchen island; work with what you have always!
Because you can’t remodel your entire kitchen (or enlarge it) just to fit in an island, it makes more sense to use the existing space and design.
That said, a fixed mindset (or failure to exhaust options) would then the biggest obstacle to creating a functional small kitchen island.
A flexible mindset is knowing that your kitchen island must not be a free-standing unit and exploring all the possibilities until you exhaust existing options—including floating a countertop if that’s the final resort.
Smart ways to install an Island in Your Small Kitchen
Kitchen islands can be designed to offer more purpose and appeal to a pantry. Learn the many ways to design yours.
1. An island on wheels
A small wheeled unit is one of the many ways to go if your pantry is tiny. A movable island is excellent because you can switch its position depending on your needs.
You can also add cupboards, towel rails, and a drawer to increase its stowage capacity, and blend with tucked in seats to avoid overcrowding your space.
2. A small functional table
If you really are pressed for space then a small functional table could suffice as your island. The key here is to engage you make your table creatively in terms of storage and arrangement.
Make the most of the space underneath your table by adding hanging rails for your utensils. Lastly, you can add seating or store seats away unless you have company.
3. Build against or around an existing pillar
A pillar may seem like and obstacle, but not if you turn it into the hosting area for your small kitchen island.
You can easily stick out a ledge from a standing pillar, or build countertops around it, and then slide some seating underneath.
4. Extend a countertop and add supporting legs
You could also extend a countertop from an existing unit or wall, and install two supporting legs to achieve an easy-on-the-pocket social area in your pantry.
You can still add a mug holder as the centerpiece to your tabletop to add more purpose to your island.
When it comes to adding a small kitchen island to your space, the challenges of limited space and arrangement can often be daunting. These obstacles can make it seem impossible to incorporate a freestanding unit in your kitchen without disrupting both the design and workflow. However, with the right approach and a few clever tricks, achieving a small kitchen island even in a compact space is achievable.
Space and Arrangement Considerations
Space and arrangement are crucial factors to consider before adding a small kitchen island to your interior. Here are some key points to keep in mind:
- Relevance: Ensure that the island you add complements your existing design and serves a practical purpose. Avoid incorporating irrelevant installations that can disrupt the overall aesthetic of your kitchen.
- Workflow Disruption: Consider how the placement of the island may impact the flow of your kitchen. You wouldn’t want to build an island that hinders movement or disrupts the efficiency of your workspace.
Tips for Achieving a Small Kitchen Island:
- Mobile Islands: Opt for a mobile kitchen island that can be moved around as needed. This allows for flexibility in changing the layout of your kitchen and provides additional storage and workspace.
- Foldable or Extendable Countertops: Choose a small island with foldable or extendable countertops. This feature maximizes space efficiency and allows you to adjust the size of the island based on your needs.
- Utilize Vertical space: Make use of vertical space by adding shelves or hooks to the sides of the island for storing cookware, utensils, or even decorative items. This helps free up counter space and keeps essentials within easy reach.
- Multi-functional Units: Look for small kitchen islands with built-in features such as a breakfast bar, wine rack, or additional storage compartments. These multi-functional units offer added convenience and make efficient use of limited space.
- Lighting Solutions: Consider incorporating task lighting above the island to enhance functionality and create a cozy atmosphere.Pendant lights or under-cabinet lighting can illuminate the workspace and add a stylish touch to the design.
Benefits of Small kitchen Islands:
- Additional Storage: Small kitchen islands provide extra storage space for kitchen essentials, such as pots, pans, and utensils, helping to keep your kitchen organized and clutter-free.
- Enhanced Workstation: A small island can serve as a dedicated workstation for food preparation, cooking, and even dining, making tasks more efficient and enjoyable.
- Visual Appeal: Adding a small kitchen island can elevate the design of your kitchen, creating a focal point that enhances the overall aesthetic and charm of the space.
Case Study:
Emily, a homeowner with a small kitchen, wanted to add a kitchen island to improve functionality. By choosing a compact, mobile island with storage shelves and a foldable countertop, she was able to maximize her space without compromising on design. The island now serves as a versatile workstation and storage solution, making cooking and entertaining easier.
Conclusion:
Incorporating a small kitchen island in a limited space may seem challenging, but with the right strategies and considerations, it can be a rewarding addition to your interior. By focusing on relevance, workflow, and smart design choices, you can achieve a functional and stylish island that enhances both the form and function of your kitchen.
Remember, when adding a small kitchen island, think creatively, prioritize functionality, and make the most of the space you have available. With careful planning and the right design elements, you can transform your kitchen into a more efficient and inviting space.
Love this idea! A small kitchen island can really enhance the functionality of a kitchen and create a cozy gathering spot. Great tips!