Do you need more preparation space in your kitchen? How about
storage space? No. Then you are lucky! (Can I come live in YOUR
house?) But if you are like me and measure the success of a meal
by the square footage used to actually prepare it (Thanksgiving
dinner takes 800 sq. ft. at least!), you need space! Consider
adding a kitchen island!
1. If you have a kitchen the size of a basketball court, an
island can transform the space into workable and efficient
areas. Storage areas for relevant appliance for each area will
enhance the efficiency of the space.
2. If you need additional workspace, an island can provide it.
You can choose a specialty top for the island (butcher block,
stone or stainless steel) to make is especially useful for
baking or chopping).
3. If members of your family like to eat in the kitchen, or if
you love to talk to them while you cook, an island can add
additional casual eating space.
4. If you need extra work surface in more than one area of the
kitchen, an island can add flexibility and mobility with a
movable space. An island on castors can be moved to whichever
area you need - near the stove, near the sink, or out of the
way!
5. If you don't like the look of a traditional island, you can
add extra space with a large table. Same concept, different
form!
6. If you lack a focal point or if you would like to take
attention away from flaws elsewhere in your kitchen, an island
is a perfect way to do so.
7. If your home has an open plan, an island can serve as the
outside wall of the kitchen to give visual separation for the
space.
8. If you want to direct traffic into or out of specific places
in your kitchen (lead those children directly to the dirty
dishes and the sink!), an island can be positioned to help.
9. If you need space for appliances or an extra sink, an island
can be a perfect solution. You can add a small refrigerator, a
cooktop or an additional oven to enhance the usability of any
island.
10. If you want to be able to keep an eye on the kids in the
family room while you are preparing dinner, an island can
separate rooms without blocking the view. (And you can watch
what THEY are watching on TV!).
An island can be a perfect solution to many problems in your
kitchen, but alas, the extra space won't improve your cooking!
Don't believe me? Just ask my family!
Copyright © 2003, Pamela Cole Harris
About the Author:
Pamela Cole Harris is an editor, writer and eco-decorator with
35 years experience. Visit her website HomeandGardenMakeover.com,
for remodeling,
eco-decorating and design advice the financially challenged and
creatively deficient. Or for original, fresh content unique to
your website, visit PamelaColeHarris.com.
