ISLAND DREAMS

Who wouldn’t want an island in their kitchen these days? Designers will tell you, not many. Big or small, we can’t deny the benefits a kitchen island offers a busy family kitchen. Not only do the aesthetics of a well-designed island add style and an architectural focal point in the space, but they also help streamline culinary workflow, expand storage space, and off an area for friends and family to gather comfortably when dining, working, or socializing.

Today, the kitchen island has shed its one-size-fits-all style to suit the narrative of our lifestyles more closely. They’ve morphed into a hybrid of prep area, dining table, storage solution, and even a home office spot. For busy families, it’s all about expandable surfaces, built-in appliances, and under-counter cabinets that make the most of every inch.

Let’s take an “island tour” and see how designers are reimagining the traditional form and functionality of today’s kitchen island.

Not to be upstaged by the gleaming Thermador 60” dual fuel Pro Grand range in this modern country kitchen, flea-market finds like this antique wood table makes a statement as a multi-purpose island that defines the vintage style of the kitchen.

Suitable for a sophisticated custom kitchen, a timeless vintage-style island in dark stained wood with paneled detail is topped with a seamless stone slab of stone or quartz to offer the perfect easy-to-clean and food-safe worktop for baking, food prep and dining.

Via @rejuvenation.ca

Offered in 30” and 36” the sleek lines of Thermador’s stainless steel, zero clearance Pro Harmony Liberty Induction Range fits seamlessly into this kitchen island featuring an eco-friendly quartz waterfall top and plenty of additional storage. The adjacent wall features a Thermador a panel-ready bottom freezer, and Thermador Masterpiece Combo Speed Wall Oven

Now available in every size imaginable, the kitchen island can be a simple DIY project or custom-made piece that’s designed to fit perfectly into your space. For small spaces, add rolling wheels so you can move it out of the way when necessary.

Thermador Appliances shown: Stainless Steel Triple Wall Ovens and Dishwasher

The perfect solution for busy entertaining kitchens is to design a large island with seating, a sink, one or two Thermador dishwashers, and a pull-out recycling drawer. A waterfall stone top offers a modern, easy-to-clean surface that ideal for prepping, entertaining and dining. For convenience, don’t forget to add electrical outlets to your islands for charging and powering small appliances and devices.

Culinary Design Tip: Depending on personal preference and cooking habits an island stovetop is a great option for the social cook who wants to face an open space, rather than stare at a wall. Keep in mind that cooking on the island requires cleaning, is a hot surface and will require ventilation. Discuss the pros and cons with your kitchen designer to help make the right decision.