Island Units

An island is a must in today's kitchens as the kitchen is the heart of the home where most people tend to gather.

• Consider the size of the complete room. (kitchen & dining area)
• Size of the island relative to the kitchen area.
• Mark out / test floor space by placing newspapers on the floor to create a mock-up of the size of the island, remember to take into account other furniture for the room.
• Material for work surface - Granite, marble, quartz stone or timber have little restrictions in size or shape of the island unlike formica which is only available in a few sizes.
• Install adequate over head lighting or position the island to maximise natural daylight i.e. under a skylight or facing out onto a south facing garden
• Flooring - type of flooring for the area, ideally the flooring should be completed before fitting the island.

 
Preparation Area

• Fit a sink & tap in the island.  However, will need to have plumbing points.
• Ideally you should have either a double socket on the s ide of the island or electric socket tower to safety use small appliances such as an electric carving knife.  This avoids having cables draped dangerously across the kitchen.
• An extractor fan will need power & ducting, - an island extractor fan will need support fittings in the ceiling whereas downdraft extraction are fitted into the work surface and can be more aesthetically pleasing.
• Remember even a gas hob will require electricity for the ignition switch.
• You should have a drawer unit, to have cutlery close at hand.
• Pull-out larder unit, to store commonly used groceries.
• Euro bin which will make recycling easier.

• Stools-high enough to sit comfortably and ideally height adjustable.
• Chairs-will require work surface at a lower level.
• Push open units eliminates protruding handles.
• Avoid sink/hob if you want young children to sit safety doing their homework.
• Maximise any pleasing views - looking out onto your garden.