Kitchen trends come and go, but there are a few trends that rarely go out of style. And one of the trends that never seem to end is kitchen islands. According to Houzz’s 2022 U.S. Kitchen Trends Study, kitchen islands remain one of the most sought-after complete kitchen and bath remodeling upgrades. The report states that 57% of renovating homeowners either add or upgrade an existing kitchen island.
We have helped with several home renovations in Orange County, CA, and see kitchen islands as one of the most liked upgrades. And why not? Kitchen islands are aesthetically pleasing and functional. They also provide extra counter space, improved workflow, and customized storage. These are a few reasons kitchen islands may never go out of style.
But complete kitchen and bath remodeling, that too, with a kitchen island, isn’t a cakewalk. You need to think everything through before going ahead.
5 Things You Need to Keep in Mind When Adding a Kitchen Island
If you are going for a home renovation in Orange County, CA, you can consider adding a kitchen island. It’s an excellent way to add more counter and storage space to your kitchen. And it can double as your desk if you like working from your kitchen.
Just make sure to keep the following things in mind.
1. Consider Your Seating Options First
As you can imagine, your kitchen island is of little value without a proper seating arrangement. So, think of how many chairs or stools you want to fit into your kitchen island before setting it up.
You don’t have to crowd your kitchen with too many chairs or stools. Most kitchen and bathroom remodeling services like ours recommend seating at least at a portion of the island. The choice will depend on how many members you have in your family. As you can see, couples often go with a couple of chairs or stools at one corner of the island.
Also, think about how you intend to use the seating. Will you do it mostly for homework? Then, it’s better if your seating faces the same way. Moreover, your seating should face a window, allowing you to leverage natural light.
2. Get Creative with Your Storage
Most homeowners don’t think about storage when planning a kitchen island. However, a kitchen island can help you add a lot of storage if designed correctly. Just make sure to consult a complete kitchen and bath remodeling expert first. An excerpt like OMG Kitchen & Bath can help you make the most out of your island design.
The most popular option is double-sided storage. You can also add extra cabinets under the overhang on the backside. This type of storage is easily accessible. All you have to do is move the stools or chairs out of the way.
Another option is to add cabinets, drawers, or shelves at both ends of your island. This is an excellent way to add more storage to your kitchen. The bottom line is to get as creative as possible with island storage.
3. Make Sure to Add an Outlet
This is one of the most critical requirements that you can’t ignore. As per the California Building Code, an island or peninsular counter with dimensions of at least 24 inches by 12 inches requires at least one receptacle. In other words, you will have to make room for at least one outlet, depending on the size of your kitchen island.
You would want to discuss this with your complete kitchen and bath remodeling contractor. Your contractor can help you add outlets at the right position, allowing you to plug in your blender or laptop when needed. You can add an outlet on the backside of your island.
Another option is to add an outlet on the side. In a few slick and modern designs, contractors suggest adding an outlet in a drawer for charging devices. This helps you keep your mobile phones and other small devices safe from spills and other accidents while charging.
4. Choose the Right Kitchen Island Countertop
Kitchen countertops come in different materials, patterns, and colors. You would want to choose a countertop that best fits your need and budget. You will need to be careful because a countertop is the focal point of your kitchen. So, if an island is a part of your home renovation in orange county, CA, make sure to consult an expert.
Usually, a seasoned contractor would recommend considering the countertop material, color and design, durability, and ease of maintenance. The last point is very critical because the countertop will have to undergo its fair share of messes. It’s better to have something you can clean with a wet cloth and kitchen soap quickly.
Likewise, you would want your kitchen island countertop to last longer. It’s an expensive investment. So, consider buying a material that can last at least a couple of decades, such as granite. Again, consulting a professional can help you make a well-informed decision. And you will need a contractor to install the countertop anyway.
5. Think of Adding a Beverage Fridge or Fridge Drawer
Another way to jazz up your kitchen island is to add a beverage fridge or fridge drawer. But this addition will also make your kitchen island more functional. For example, with a beverage fridge, you can grab a drink without leaving the island.
Make sure to consult a kitchen and bathroom remodeling services contractor. They can help you place the fridge in the right place. However, the most common place for a beverage fridge or fridge drawer is near the island end, which is farthest away from the main action.
In Conclusion
Complete kitchen and bath remodeling is an expensive and time-consuming endeavor. That’s why you have to make sure to make changes that are aesthetically pleasing and functional. Your island kitchen will last longer if you make the right changes. Just be sure to keep these few things in mind that will help you add or upgrade your kitchen island with ease.
Are you going for a home remodeling in orange county, ca? Let the experts at OMG Kitchen & Bath help you renovate your home, giving it a modern look. For more information, contact us today!