Kitchen island: pros and cons. Kitchen islands with a dining area: design options and layouts

I am designing a kitchen with an island. Let's highlight the topic...

Kitchen island is P or G- figurative kitchen with a small island of kitchen furniture in the center. This layout of the kitchen interior is recommended for large enough rooms, because. it is necessary to provide that two people move freely in the kitchen.

A distance of 2 meters from the island to the items of the main group of furniture in your kitchen (passage) is considered convenient. At least 1200. Firstly, the facades on both sides usually break down at the bottom (if 60 cm can be found), and secondly - 1200 - the minimum distance between the cabinets to which you need to lean.

You can place on the island a cutting surface, a small refrigerator or freezer, a sink, gas stove or hob. But remember that to install all these "charms" you will need to bring to your island and that's it. necessary communications(electricity, water, sewerage and gas). In this case, for sure, you will have to lay everything under the floor.

If you don’t really want to bother with communications to your island, then you can use it as a cutting surface or additional space for storing dishes.

You can also install small hanging open cabinets above the island, but in this case you will have to consider a system for attaching them to the kitchen ceiling, and the cabinets themselves will need to be made to order. And don't forget the kitchen lighting. With this design of your kitchen, the lamps will need to be placed around the entire perimeter, because. the center of the ceiling is already occupied by you.

If you are going to have meals on your "island", please note that its height is usually equal to the height working surface, which is significantly higher than the usual dining table(70-76cm). Bar stools that are higher than usual will help to avoid inconvenience. As a rule, they can be bought together with a kitchen set.

You can divide the kitchen island into two or more functional groups interior. For example, on one side there is a cutting surface and a built-in refrigerator or sink, and on the other, arrange small table for breakfast.

It is worth considering that when designing your kitchen in the form of an island, you must strictly follow the triangle rule. Those. to concentrate all the components of the triangle (refrigerator, sink, desktop and stove) in one zone of the kitchen.

At the same time, you get a surprisingly compact working triangle, and you can use the rest of the working space of the kitchen interior at your discretion. For example, for embedded household appliances or as additional storage space.

It is not necessary that the island be strictly rectangular or square shape. Play with the details of your kitchen interior using complex shape islands.

An island is a great chance to have two work surfaces of different heights in the kitchen. It is customary to build the main line of a modern kitchen without floor transitions. furniture cabinets in height, but no one will stop you from making the island itself higher or lower than the main furniture. This technique is suitable for families in which not all family members are satisfied with the standard height. floor cabinets at 90 cm.

About the kitchen with an island from IVD.ru

Ergonomics

The main aspect of ergonomics is the optimal organization of areas of greatest activity. The sink is the most important of these places: here you spend 40-60% of your "kitchen" time. The ideal option is to locate it in the center of the "working triangle", at a distance of 1200-1800 mm from the stove and 1200-2100 mm from the refrigerator.

Freezers and refrigerators placed in the corners of the kitchen so as not to "tear" the work surface. On average, the area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe named triangle is about 7 m 2. If the width of the kitchen is more than 4.5 m, then the distance between the appliances (with linear layout) becomes significant, and the owners are forced to constantly move between the stove, sink and refrigerator. "Island" and "peninsular" layout - the most suitable way reduce the distance between functional areas.

Unlike the "island", open on four sides, " peninsula"is a kind of protrusion or bend in the line of a single-row or L-shaped kitchen(including closed). It is appropriate when it fits into multifunctional space(kitchen-dining room, kitchen-living room, etc.). As a rule, the "peninsula" separates the kitchen area from the adjacent territory and acts as a bar counter or serving table. In principle, its dimensions can be any.

What is located on the "island"?

The freestanding element can be used for any kind of food preparation activities. Here are the most common options for completing the work surface.

They take out the hob and sink, separated by a worktop with a width of at least 300 mm.
. "Island" complete hob and cutting surface. The sink stays against the wall.
. On the "island" place a large sink and cutting area. At the same time, you will not have a dish dryer (in the cabinet above the sink). True, it is recommended to store utensils in specially arranged lower drawers.
. "Island" is equipped with a hob, a cutting surface and a sink with a diameter of 380 mm (you can wash glasses, tea utensils, fruits in it); the main sink is located against the wall.
. The working surface of the "island" can consist of a cutting area and a compact sink.
. The whole "island" serves as an additional working area. If it is combined with a bar counter, a table for eating on hastily or a dining table and bring sockets to the "island", then household appliances can be transferred here: a juicer, a kettle, a coffee machine, a toaster. Get a well-equipped place for breakfast.

Our fellow citizens most often use "islands" as a bar counter, an additional cutting surface or for space zoning. In this form, they are more popular than as a technological part of the kitchen.

Since "islands" and "peninsulas" are often part of residential interior, from the side of the kitchen they are functionally equipped, and from the side of the living room they fit organically into the recreation area. For example, the lower part is made completely closed or open, combined (on the one hand - ordinary cabinets, on the other - false doors), with drawers for various purposes; she is decorated stained glass windows with backlight, arrange cells for bottles.

A dishwasher, an oven, a wine cabinet, a compact refrigerator without freezer(it is appropriate in the cooking area, when there is a large refrigerator in the remote part of the spacious kitchen). Attached to the ceiling looks impressive above the remote unit decorative shelf- mensol (it can be supplied complete with a hood and lighting), visually balancing the massive structure of the "island". Everything that is usually located above the work surface in front of the hostess is suspended from it, including utensils - frying pans, pots, stewpans ...

Expert opinion

"Island" kitchen is ideal in a large room (15-18 m2 or more). Designers recommend highlighting food preparation and cooking areas here. The first of them contains the main working surface (between the sink and the stove); it should be long enough and well lit. An island table is best suited for this. In the case when a sink is located on it, the distribution of zones is ergonomically optimal. But then the size of the "island" increases significantly, respectively, and the kitchen should be more spacious.

Studies based on the "long thread method" (moving while working in the kitchen) clearly prove the advantage of choosing a kitchen with an "island". Here the hostess will walk 100-150 meters less per day, which will greatly facilitate her work and, undoubtedly, improve her mood. The table-"island" is convenient for eating.

Kirill Ilyichev, head of the marketing department of the factory "

All work areas in the kitchen "Caprice" (" ") are separated and open - this is convenient

. Options complete solution work and dining areas

How to avoid problems

When integrating a kitchen into a living space, there are many obstacles: these are a rigid layout of city apartments, a lack (and sometimes an excess) of space, financial constraints, and technical problems. moving kitchen equipment to the "island" or "peninsula" is associated with the transfer of communications - water supply and sewerage, gas and electricity. In the design project, they not only work out all the nuances of the composition, but also stipulate each type of communication work, taking into account the requirements of SNiPs.

The biggest difficulty is moving the sink. Difficulties arise primarily when agreeing on a project: after all, water and drain will most likely pass over the living quarters of an apartment located on the floor below. To get permission, you need to make high-quality waterproofing of the floor and be able to convince the housing inspectorate that the move will not cause inconvenience to neighbors.

" ". Mobile pedestals on casters are easy to move

Water is supplied to the sink under pressure through pipes with a diameter of 15 mm. Diameter sewer pipe providing drain - 50 mm. When removing the sink from the riser, it must be taken into account that the drain device requires laying a pipe with a slope of at least 0.03 (for 100 cm of length - 3 cm of difference). It is not difficult to hide the eyeliners in the screed. To hide the drain pipe, and besides, under a slope, the floor will have to be raised. How much? Now we'll find out.

AT sewer riser a crosspiece is embedded for taps from plumbing and kitchen sink. It can be located above or below the upper plane of the intermediate floor. If it is lower, there are practically no problems with drainage: it is not difficult to ensure the slope of the sewer pipe. And if the cross is high, you need to raise the drain pipe coming from the "island", and therefore increase the thickness of the floor. Depending on the type of the latter, the "sandwich" can be quite thick (up to 10-15 cm). However, according to European standards the floor in the apartment should be single-level, so they usually level the floors in all rooms, and this is expensive.

When the ceilings are rather low or the bearing capacity of the ceiling and financial possibilities do not allow raising the floor level in the entire apartment, and engineering communications need to be hidden, they arrange a technical podium. It has not only the "island", but the entire kitchen. The farther the remote element from the riser, the higher the podium.

Moving an electric hob, oven, refrigerator and other electrical appliances to the center of the kitchen is not particularly difficult. You just need to think over the wiring diagram, select a cable of a suitable section and plan the placement of outlets. Any qualified electrician can handle this.

Light wing flap

Cooking classes in the center of the kitchen, combined with the living room, are inconceivable without an "island" (attached to the ceiling) hood with a capacity of 500-800 m 3 / h. Otherwise, food aromas will hover in the public area ... For an open kitchen where a lot of cooking is done, only an extractor hood with a diverter mode and an outlet to the ventilation shaft is suitable (it removes kitchen air from the room along with fats and odors). The efficiency of the circulation hood, which takes in air, cleans it with filters and returns it back, is 2 times lower than the hood of the first type.

Most often, a hood with a diverting mode of operation is connected by means of a metal duct-duct (corrugation) to the channel of the ventilation system at home. Since for the rest of the air in the room the exit to the ventilation shaft is blocked by the corrugation, an additional hole is made in the channel to save natural ventilation rooms - inserted into it check valve or forced draft fan. In new high-rise buildings modern layout along with the usual ventilation shafts, additional ventilation ducts for kitchen hoods are provided.

There are many tricks that allow you to beat the air duct: multi-level ceilings of various configurations, false beams (they hide the corrugation, and you can hide lamps in them that provide soft lighting). For very high rooms, models of hoods with a long pipe (1.5 m) are provided.

When choosing an "island" hood, not only technical aspects are taken into account (performance, low level noise), but also the method of attachment to the ceiling. Such a design is a very noticeable component of both the kitchen "island" and the entire interior, so it must be impeccable in terms of design.

Kitchen ( )

Don't get lost in space

A furniture composition with an "island" or "peninsula" requires sufficient space. Designers designing open kitchens, think that important condition their integration into the interior is not only the total footage kitchen area but also the width of the room.

A room with a width of at least 4.5 m and an area of ​​15-20 m 2 in terms of ergonomics and safety is best suited for an "island" or "peninsular" layout. So that family members are not constrained in their movements, freely pull out drawers, open doors, use equipment, and finally, they can disperse when they meet, the desired width of the passages around the "island" is not less than 1-1.2 m.

Obviously, a small "island" in a large open space is like a dot on a map. Therefore it optimal dimensions(height, width, depth) should be 850/950/1000 × 1800 × 900 mm. Dimensions 850/950/1000 × 1200 × 900 mm are already at the limit.

. One of the advantages of an open "island" layout is the possibility of communication in the process of work.

constructive unity

"Islands" and "peninsulas" are made from the same structural components as the entire kitchen. A single database of elements and decorative details allows designers to manage them based on consumer requests. And the higher the level of the manufacturer, the wider the range of offers and combinations constituent parts even within the same model, functionality is better thought out, catalogs are more original, more varied options finishes, which means more opportunities to make a kitchen for a particular customer.

The variety of elements (including convex-concave), accessories, countertops allows you to literally plan cabinets, drawers and shelves for storing kitchen utensils and supplies to the smallest detail. Skillfully managing all this wealth is the task of a designer designing a kitchen. And it's not just the potential of a particular factory. By applying simple but elegant design solutions, you can also design a kitchen space that long years will make their owners happy. For example, one of the economical ways to create an "island" is to make it from two layers of moisture-resistant drywall, choosing power profiles or stronger bars (100 × 50 mm), and then tiling the countertop and facades. A hob, an oven are cut into such a remote element; it can also be used simply as a practical work surface.

The designs of "islands" and "peninsulas" are made with facades made of the same material as kitchen furniture, with similar decor, handles, piping, plinth, etc. Choosing chipboard, MDF, plastic, solid wood, veneer for the "island" , metal or glass, which are successfully used in the manufacture of modern kitchens, are usually guided by the main composition, but this is not necessary. The main thing is that in the general context of the room they are combined with each other. Particular attention should be paid to the materials in the case when the countertop is used as a large cutting board. Manufacturers are now offering a natural stone, composites (including corian), stainless steel, laminated chipboard, tiles. Thick cutting elements made of solid wood are integrated into the work surfaces, which can become an integral part of the table top made of any material.

" " You can order an "island" as a version of any model available in the catalog and make a kitchen

comfortable, beautiful and fashionable. For example, move the hob and oven to the center

Expert opinion

Recently, many furniture manufacturers have shown a new approach to the design of the kitchen, and architects and designers are striving to increase the size of the kitchen "territory", combining it with the living-dining room. And no wonder: what hostess does not dream that everything you need is within reach! An idea arose: in addition to the main kitchen area, arrange in the center of the room a kind of core of the house, an "island" that unites the family. A stove with an extractor hood, around which you can move around, successfully organizes the space. And the multi-level bar counter, emerging from the depths of the "island", serves as a "gathering place" for adults and children. One of the popular options is a technological "island": a sink, a hob are mounted in its work surface, and built-in appliances under the table top. When setting up such a kitchen, take care of a few things.

The combination of the kitchen "island" with the living room requires additional (in addition to the "island" hood) forced ventilation.
. Think over the lighting of the working surface in advance (preferably mounted in hanging shelves controlled system of light sources).
. Gas, water and sewer connections must be available.
. It is better to leave the sink at one of the walls occupied by the main composition. When taking it to the center of the kitchen, take care of the slope of the sewer pipe in the floor structure.

Tatyana Kalugina, Deputy CEO architectural and construction company "Euro-Build Service"

. Working block with extractor hood, cutting boards, shelves for various utensils at the bottom and mensola at the top,

to which the accessories are attached, typical of an antique styled kitchen

Style? Any!

Free-standing elements are relevant for any style direction. AT classic kitchens they are richly decorated with panels, carved overlays, pilasters, and open arched shelves. Modern style requires a strict and restrained approach. Thus, a minimalist interior makes an impression due to the horizontally elongated arrangement of objects in space.

Since the "island" is a rather massive architectural dominant, be careful with dark colors that visually reduce the space, especially if the kitchen is small. Light designs look lighter and seem more elegant. The combination of materials and colors depends on the imagination of the designer. It is not necessary that the remote elements repeat the tonality of the main composition, especially given the current trend of polychrome cuisine. The "workbench" itself was initially rectangular, but today it can be anything: U- or L-shaped, represent an open ring.", " , Arclinea, Lube, Salvarani, Santarossa, Scic, Tomassi, Varenna, Verona (Italy).

Buying an island

Kitchen "islands" and "peninsulas" are an expensive pleasure, indicating a certain social status of a person. After all, we are talking about the organization of the studio space, where a certain author's idea is realized, embodied in its very design. Unlike built-in kitchen elements, these units do not have a back; all four sides are designed and executed with the same care. Facade materials, non-standard modules (including convex-concave), ensuring the stability of the structure make the project not cheap, not to mention the transfer of communications.

According to the most conservative estimates, an "island" kitchen without appliances, devoid of frills, with plastic facades costs at least 200 thousand rubles. And the price of a set of solid wood is 350 thousand rubles.

It is difficult to say unequivocally how "island" and "peninsular" kitchen layout more expensive than usual. Dimensions, materials, interior equipment and, of course, design determine the price of the central element. It can be a rectangular desktop or a multifunctional design with an original bar counter. For example, the entire "island" composition based on the "Elina" model from solid birch ("") costs 142 thousand rubles. (without equipment and accessories), and the "island" included in it without claims, with a minimum drawers dimensions 855 × 1300 × 860 mm will cost 27 thousand rubles.

An option for comparison is a kitchen planned on the basis of the Metropolis Caffe () program. The cost of an "island" element with a width of 1800 mm, together with a bar counter and chairs, but without appliances, will be more than 30% (about 300 thousand rubles) of the price of the entire kitchen set with a hood.

Dining area in the kitchen plays important role in the life of any family. Joint meals and gatherings with friends help a person relieve stress and find harmony. Therefore, it is important that the place for eating is convenient and comfortable and clearly delimited from the food preparation area.

One way to organize dining area protrudes kitchen island. This is a piece of furniture placed separately from the main set closer to the center of the room.

A kitchen island with a dining area can be either part of a suite or an independent piece of furniture - you can always buy it separately.

Types of designs of a kitchen island with a dining area - what can be represented

Kitchen island with table

The dining area in the island can be represented by both the entire structure and its part. Most often it is a rectangular table of impressive size. There are designs in which a place for a meal is presented a full-fledged corner with sofas.

What shape can an island with a dining table be

Depending on the shape, kitchen islands with a dining area can be:

• straight - in this case, the dining table is a continuation of the island. This design turns out to be too long, therefore it is suitable for stretched rooms;
• corner - the table joins the island at an angle of 90 degrees and forms with it a small furniture complex in the shape of the letter "L". This option is ideal for square kitchens;
• T-shaped - in them the dining table is perpendicular to the base. It is important that the space in the furniture joint area has functional purpose. For example, you can build a hob, sink or work surface there.

Types of table designs combined with a kitchen island

When choosing an island, special attention is paid to the dining table. First of all, you need to decide on its size. The dimensions of the dining area largely depend on the number of people for whom it is designed, the area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe kitchen and its layout.

To choose the right island with a table, follow the following rules:

• the optimal size of the product area for each person is 50x40 cm;
• an area of ​​at least 20 sq.cm should remain in the center of the table. - This is necessary for the placement of common items.

The traditional dimensions of the dining surface are:

• width - from 80 to 120 cm;
• length - from 90 to 120 cm;
• height - from 75 to 80 cm.

According to the method of attachment to the main table, they can be:

• attached - these are stationary structures that are installed close to the island. They are best suited to replace a full-fledged dining area;
• built-in (roll-out) - such a model is hidden in the body of the island and pulled out if necessary. This option is ideal as an additional option if the kitchen already has a table.

For large families transformer tables are well suited. From small structures designed for 2-4 people, they easily turn into a zone for big family and guests - up to 10 people.

What materials are countertops made from?

Particular attention should be paid to the countertop - that is, the surface of the dining table. In order for the furniture to last for a long time, it is necessary to give preference to reliable, heat-resistant materials that are not prone to quick failure. After all, a table for food must withstand not only the weight of dishes, but also dishes with hot food, exposure to moisture and coloring products.

The best value for money is an artificial stone or MDF countertop.

Products from laminated chipboard although they look beautiful and are not expensive, they quickly deform and fail.

Furniture from natural wood or stone with a special coating suitable for creating luxurious interiors, but high price makes it not too popular - mostly islands with stone or wooden countertop are made to order.

Island with a dining area in the form of a kitchenette

Island with kitchenette reverse side- this is one of the most practical solutions in organizing a dining area. This design is an island in the form of a long tabletop, on the reverse side of which there is a sofa.

Thus, on one side of the island, a space for relaxation is obtained, and chairs are installed on the other - and a full-fledged place for a meal is ready.

For one-room studio apartments, there are options even with a sofa designed for sleeping and relaxing.

Shapes and dimensions of a kitchen island with a sofa

Modern furniture manufacturers offer various modifications of the island to the kitchenette. The most popular of them are:

• L-shaped - ideal for large kitchens. This dining area can comfortably accommodate up to 8 people;
• U-shaped - they use a straight tabletop and a corner sofa;
• "restaurant" option - in this case, the sofas are on both sides of the main tabletop, made in the shape of the letter T.

The dimensions of sofas for such designs are:

• length - from 100 to 200 cm;
• depth - from 50 to 70 cm;
• height - 40-50 cm (seats) and 80-95 cm (backs).

Kitchen sofas are usually complemented by niches for storing dishes, food and textiles. The most convenient option is drawers or a rising seat.

Types of sofas built into the kitchen island

The convenience and durability of the seats of kitchen sofas largely depend on its upholstery and internal content.

For upholstery use:

• leather is the most expensive, but at the same time high-quality option;
• leatherette is a budget option for upholstery that does not differ in wear resistance. If you have decided to purchase leatherette furniture, then choose eco-leather - according to operational properties it is almost identical to natural;
• fabrics - jacquard, tapestry, microfiber. The advantage of fabric upholstery is that it is easy to change if necessary.

But the most practical option is velor. It is ideal for daily use, retains an attractive appearance for a long time and is not afraid of wet cleaning soap solution.

But it is better to refuse upholstery in the form of velvet or artificial suede - these materials are quickly wiped and there is a risk that after six months the furniture will acquire an untidy “bald” look.

Kitchen sofas can be both soft and hard.

In soft ones, spring filling is used - it does not squeeze through and the furniture retains an attractive appearance for a long time. appearance.

And in hard ones, a thin layer of soft material is laid between the seat and the upholstery. It could be:

• foam - polyester foam;
• batting - fleece cotton yarn;
• sintepon - polyester fibers.

Some furniture manufacturers use very expensive and even exotic fillers. For example, seaweed or horse hair. However, in terms of performance, they are identical to their more budgetary counterparts and it makes no sense to overpay.

Additional functional purpose and equipment of the island with a dining area

As a rule, a kitchen island with a dining area performs and additional functions. So, it can be:

• work surface - in this case, the dining tabletop is combined with a more practical table designed for cooking;
• a module for embedding appliances - often a dining table is combined with a hob, sink or other necessary appliances;
• storage system - cabinets are mounted under the tabletop for placement kitchen utensils with hinged, hinged or gas lift doors.

Please note that in order to install an island in which a dining area and household appliances are combined, it must be possible to connect communications to the place of its installation.

Features of placing a kitchen island with a dining area - rules and requirements for the room

Island kitchen table dark wood became the focal point of the snow-white interior of the kitchen

The island kitchen table is a real find for fans of the symbiosis of style and functionality. It provides new storage space and allows a large company to comfortably sit down for a meal.

Recently, the trend is gaining momentum to design kitchen islands in the spirit of dining tables. Of course, making the table attractive through unusual design its legs are habitual and tested for centuries, but the new trend in the design of the island prescribes to go beyond the stereotypical framework: the tabletop is getting higher, shelves and drawers practically disappear, freeing up space for comfortable seating.

As already mentioned, this frees up enough space so that a company of several people can comfortably sit down at dinner opposite each other, and the chairs can easily slide under the countertop at the end of the meal. Outwardly, they look almost like dining tables, but still remain islands with a height of up to 100 cm.

The island in the photo above looks like a table, the length of the legs of which is increased by 15 cm. No shelves or storage boxes are found under the table top, but the presence of free space makes the item even more useful by allowing low-back chairs to be fully retracted inward.

Advice: the standard height of the table is 76-82 cm, the height of the lower cabinet ranges from 92 to 107 cm, and the bar counter reaches 100 cm.

Table, reminiscent of ancient temples, perfectly harmonizes with modern designer stools

This magnificent piece of furniture has a marble top, which makes it more "island" (with wood flooring design would have been completely different. It is successfully complemented by high chairs with tiny backs, more reminiscent of bar stools.

Three chrome-plated lamps located above working area make it clear that you have a kitchen island in front of you. And the lack of closed storage compartments and chairs arranged on both sides invite you to comfortably sit at the table for a family dinner.

Advice: opting for an elegant chandelier, you will tip the scales towards the dining table.

Two in one: not a centimeter wasted

This table-island hybrid has both a free seating area on two sides, and shelves for storing cookbooks or other small items. If necessary, the chairs slide easily under the table. Highly rational organization space!

Using this technique allows you to win precious centimeters on big kitchen

Another brilliant symbiosis: a monumental island with closed storage compartments and an almost separate structure in the form of a dining table. This idea allows you to expand the working area of ​​​​the kitchen and at the same time provides the opportunity for family meals.

Table and island decorated in different styles, perfectly complement each other

If you are the lucky owner of a large kitchen, take the best of two pieces of furniture: full island with spacious closet on the one hand and a spacious table, which will comfortably accommodate guests.

The island seems to be a solid structure

To design a kitchen in a style close to hi-tech, the transition of the island into a full-fledged table can be made seamless and absolutely logical. In this case, the working and dining areas should be crowned with a single tabletop and be approximately equal in area.

Maximum functionality in a small space

This island features a perpendicular seating pattern along two adjacent sides. It is not the same as the previous versions, but is a very interesting solution, especially for those who do not want chairs to clutter the aisle. Adding interesting details (for example, legs in classical style) will make the island look more like a dining table.

Table top depicting chessboard, acts as an independent decor item

This stunning square island is complete with a cutting board Butcher has a double set of advantages, allowing himself to be used as a dining table that can seat eight people.

The overall table does not overload the space at all due to the glossy finish and the presence of free space under the tabletop

If you're thinking about getting an L-shaped island, be aware that it can be a huge barrier in your kitchen interior. But if you make one of its sides (preferably the longer one) open, cluttering up the space can be avoided.

In conditions limited area kitchens it is better to give preference to compact stools

If there is not enough space in the kitchen for seating people along two sides of the island, you can opt for traditional design, but with a tabletop extended in one direction. You just won't be able to see the floor under the island - that's the whole difference.

This island gives the impression of not even a dining table, but a written one. This design is another reason to spend time together.

Due to the fact that the floor is visible under the island, a feeling of spaciousness is created, and the structure itself becomes more “table-like”. Just because you can't arrange chairs along opposite sides doesn't mean you have to give up on the idea: just move a few chairs to one edge. Perhaps one of the family members will have to periodically sit on the corner, but in general this option is very successful.

Industrial work tables are a fashionable trend in kitchen design

Cabinet tables made of of stainless steel- a brilliant embodiment of the idea of ​​\u200b\u200bcombining a table and an island. There is absolutely nothing in the way of your knees, and on the lower shelf you can temporarily store items you need at the moment. Such a desktop should be supplemented with four more chairs if you have abandoned the idea of ​​​​acquiring a full-fledged dining table.

Compliance with a single style makes the interior light and spacious

Trying to understand what is actually depicted above - a table or an island? Since the worktop is made of the same material as the kitchen furniture, and despite the fact that the height of this item is more suitable for the table, we must agree that we still have a kitchen island in front of us.

Perfect example competent organization compact kitchen space

Chairs near this island are usually located on three sides, but when friends come, two more seats are organized on the side where the hostess usually works.

The island kitchen is a U-shaped or L-shaped arrangement of your headset with a work area that has small size and stands apart, that is, separately. This work area is located in the center of the kitchen room. Our article will tell you how to make the island not only a stylish element, but also a design find.

The design of the island part, as a rule, has rectangular shape, but you can also find non-standard options forms:

1. oval;
2. semicircular;
3. Zigzag.

A do-it-yourself kitchen island will be most comfortable only in a fairly large room (an area of ​​​​at least 16 square meters). The smallest part of the kitchen island should be 3 square meters.

Standard kitchen island dimensions:

• Length - at least 120 centimeters;
• The minimum width is 60 centimeters, the maximum width is 150 centimeters;
• Height - from 85 centimeters to 95.

The space that passes between the main headset and the island should not be less than a meter. The design of the island's kitchen, as a rule, includes a single color scheme all items in the headset. This does not mean that various contrasts are unacceptable in this case, just that you need to be careful with them. kitchen design must be harmonious.

Island functionality

Do not forget that the island in the kitchen is intended not only for the preparation of products, but also for their preparation. Well-chosen chairs can also form a dining area.

What can be placed on the table top of the island:

• The hob and sink, which are separated by the working area. Width - 30 centimeters;
• Cooking surface and cutting area;
• An area that is designed for food preparation and a large sink with two sections;
• Hob, plus a small sink. This kitchen design includes the following arrangement: the kitchen has two sinks, one of them is the main one and it is placed against the wall;
• Dining area, which is thought out in terms of technology. In this place you can install all the necessary small-sized household appliances.

Most often, a kitchen island can be seen as a dining surface or as a bar counter.

By the way, under the tabletop “islands” you can build:

1. Oven;
2. Refrigeration chamber;
3. dishwasher;
4. Shelves for dishes;
5. Drawers for various cutlery.

Above the surface of the island, you can install a powerful hood, which in turn can be equipped with lighting. You can also install a special shelf with your own hands, a mensol, on which you can hang all the necessary kitchen utensils.

Kitchen design with an island: basic styles

The design of the kitchen island can include any style solutions:

• Classic. This style is dominated by carved facades, stone or marble countertops, stained glass. The island part in this case can be decorated with arched shelves, carved overlays, balusters. If the kitchen island is already built hob, then a chimney hood is installed above it.
• Country. This kitchen island design includes a variety of decorative weaves, chintz curtains, wicker drawers.
• Modern. Kitchen design in this case requires most often metal and glass. The main distinguishing feature is the streamlined countertops, the smooth surface of the walls, the absence of utensils and appliances outside.
• Minimalism. The main quality of a do-it-yourself kitchen island is maximum functionality, ergonomics and simplicity. hallmark minimalism - the most functional cavities for storing food, utensils, built-in household appliances, sliding cabinet doors, probably options for sets that do not have handles or they are disguised in them.
• High tech. Kitchen design includes metal surfaces, which have a special reflection or patination. A kitchen of this style has a lot in common with the classics. Rounded shapes create a slight hint of futurism.

small kitchen layout with island

Many people ask: how are things with the island in small apartment? There is a way out and it will be a redevelopment, that is, a combination of a living room and a kitchen. It is worth remembering that the layout of the kitchen with the island should include certain points:

• The island table should be distinguished by maximum functionality. In other words: it can be both dining and cutting. In the event that the layout of an apartment or your house implies a kitchen studio, then the surface of the island will be a cooking, washing or working area on the one hand, and a dining area on the other. It is worth noting that such a table must be installed so that the working, cooking or washing area is located exactly in the kitchen part of the room. At the same time, the dining area is an element of the room, which will be the border with the kitchen.
• In a kitchen that has an island, it is worth planning the location of cabinets, appliances, and all this with a sequence of use. And, besides, do not forget about the ergonomics of cabinets, work surfaces and various shelves.

For small kitchen with a do-it-yourself island, built-in wardrobes and household appliances are most suitable.

• To save space, you can use folding furniture. Let's say your island's table surface can be made foldable, and the washing area can be adapted for cutting. Fortunately, modern technologies create excellent opportunity to create a multifunctional hob.
• All household appliances can be placed on top of each other. Much in this case depends on how often you use a particular device. A refrigerator for a small kitchen with an island is best to buy narrow and slightly elongated upwards.
• Particular attention should be paid to the windowsill. For a small kitchen, this element, which has sufficient dimensions, can serve as an additional work area. The window sill can include the functions of a dining table, as well as the functions of a cutting surface.

Kitchen island (video)

In this video you will find photos of 30 kitchen island options.

The modern kitchen island is an interesting and functional solution that works well in large rooms. The island creates a work area separated from the walls, often it also includes a dining area, providing a common space for all households and giving the kitchen an original look. Nevertheless, this complex structure requires appropriate planning for its placement at the stage of building a house. This will allow us to save a lot of expenses, since in this case it is much easier and cheaper to organize the necessary communications.

It doesn't make any sense to build an island in a small enclosed kitchen. This solution will reduce the already insufficient space in a small room, in addition, it will reduce the decorative qualities of the entire room.

Kitchen units with an island are a solution for a large kitchen open to the living room. The minimum distance between the island and other kitchen furniture should be 90 cm. However, it is preferable to place it at a distance of 110-120 cm. It will not be possible to maintain such distances in small rooms. Therefore, kitchen islands are only suitable for rooms with an area of ​​at least 20 m².

In the best way, this solution manifests itself in combined rooms, for example, in a kitchen combined with a dining room and a living room. In this case, the island will visually separate the cooking area from the recreation area. Such zoning will positively affect the attractiveness of the interior. Remember, however, that there must be at least 80 cm between the island and other pieces of furniture for passage. Thanks to this, you will be able to move freely in the kitchen.

kitchen island dimensions

When creating a kitchen island project, you should first of all think about equipment and functionality. These are the factors that most influence the size of the island. Depending on what equipment we want to include in the design and what functions to provide it, the size changes. Consider the main equipment options and their corresponding sizes.

The least space is occupied by the island, which has only a countertop, however, it is the least practical. To diversify the interior, you will need a small island with a bar function, where you can sit for tea or coffee.

A little more space will be occupied by an island with a stove. The slab itself is at least 60 cm wide, and there must be at least 40 cm of countertop on its sides. This means that the minimum width of a kitchen island with a stove is 140 cm, and the minimum width of the kitchen for it must be 3 meters, provided that there is no furniture near the wall.

The multifunctional island is the largest and endowed with many useful features. This design, of course, takes up the most space.

It may include:

• dining area,
• bar counter,
• stove,
• sink.

We must add to the width of the countertop the width of the sink or bar counter or dining area. The bar counter may be on some elevation. Thus, this type of construction can only fit in a kitchen that is larger than the standard one, such a structure needs a lot of space. A device of this design in a too small kitchen does not meet practical and aesthetic requirements and will be inconvenient and ugly.

• special furniture with all household appliances,
• installation of furniture and appliances,
• plumbing and drains, as well as electricity.

All these operations can increase the budget for the kitchen by 50%.

It all depends on the intended utility of the building. The simplest islands, as noted above, are equipped with only a countertop. The only mandatory equipment in this case is lighting.

Nevertheless, houses, as a rule, arrange a multifunctional island equipped with a sink, stove and other built-in small household appliances. In this case, it is necessary to plan plumbing, electrical wiring, possible installation gas and ventilation system.

What needs to be done at the stage of building a house or renovating an apartment?

At the stage of building a house, you must ensure that all communications that your equipment will require are summed up.

Of particular importance are:

1. gas pipeline . The gas pipeline must be provided in construction project, since it requires agreement with gas service. Remember that the gas supply hoses cannot be closed. This means running cables through the ceiling, which gives a dubious decorative effect, unless you are creating a loft-style design, where all the pipes and cables are decoration and highlight of the interior. You will also need to install a ventilation duct. This setup requires good planning at the project development stage. In practice, it turns out that supplying gas to such a system is quite expensive, so many people opt for an electric stove.
   
2. Water supply and sewerage . The multifunctional island can be equipped with a sink and dishwasher. This option requires the installation of a water supply and sewerage system. At the stage of building a house, it is necessary to determine the exact location of the plumbing. This will allow us to water pipes and sewerage in the floor. It should be remembered that the drain pipe must be made with a slight slope (from 4 to 5%). Sometimes it turns out that it is impossible to lay pipes in the floor, since it is low and does not allow the necessary slope to be made.
   
3. Ventilation . If you are planning to install cooker, then you need good system ventilation. It is worth thinking about this at the construction stage. There must be an effective exhaust above the stove, with which the polluted air must be absorbed and removed along ventilation ducts. The ventilation system will run along the ceiling. However, it will not spoil the interior, as we can easily disguise the pipes in the false ceiling.
   
4. Electricity should not cause big problems, but we must also plan for its summing up in advance. Kitchen islands with a stove should have two points. The first will run along the ceiling and supply electricity to the hood, the second should run under the floor in a special groove and provide all electrical equipment. Before installation, it is necessary to determine the power of all devices. In some cases, you will need three-phase wiring that provides enough power.

What else should be kept in mind?

Each kitchen island can be an elegant and functional interior element. However, it must also be designed taking into account the basic principles of ergonomics and individual needs.

In some cases, a large, multi-purpose island with a minibar will be appropriate. In others - the usual simple island with a countertop and work area. Therefore, before making a final decision, you should analyze your real needs, evaluate your lifestyle, and choose the most suitable option.

It is also worth considering the style of the interior of the apartment or house and choose the appropriate materials. Kitchen islands are the center of the kitchen, attract attention and have a big impact on the interior of the room. Therefore, it is worth choosing the optimal solution that meets both our practical needs and the style of the room.

Below are various options in different styles, how to equip a kitchen island with a photo.

The island is fashionable and functional solution for owners of large kitchens. It is accessible from either side of the countertop and provides additional space for cabinets and, in open spaces, can visually separate the kitchen from the living area.

Modern Decoration Materials allow you to make the design a real decoration of the living room, wood and natural stone on the countertop will help you with this.

An island with a dining area is very convenient, the purpose of which is emphasized by elegant hanging lamps.

In a large kitchen used by a large family, the island provides additional, sought-after space for cabinets and countertops.

When planning, you should also think about what to make the floor around the structure. It is advisable to finish the area in front of the working space ceramic tiles, and in front of the dining area - laminate or wood paneling.

In order for the kitchen to perform its tasks well, it must be well lit. Both traditional lamps and LED lighting in the form of light bulbs and LED strips, which are mounted on pedestals, cornices or along the edges of furniture, will be useful.

Lacquered furniture fronts and shelves of different levels will make the design unique and very decorative.