5 tips on designing a custom IKEA kitchen island
- Paula
- December 7, 2022
Are you designing your kitchen island? If you aim to create a contemporary and fresh kitchen design incorporating a kitchen island is quintessential. IKEA kitchen islands are becoming an increasingly popular option for style-savvy homeowners on a budget. Customizing a kitchen island can be tricky, but with IKEA countertops and doors, you can tackle this task too!
Before building your kitchen island, some factors must be considered. The most significant are budget, functionality, material, timeline, color, size, and aesthetics. To make your process trouble-free, we have jotted down a list of tips to help you design your kitchen island.
Storage and functionality
While kitchens are beautiful spaces and the focal point of your home, they must be highly functional. The kitchen island is the central focus of most IKEA kitchen designs. It is where everyone in the family gets things done, from meal preparation and serving to late-night homework to general socializing when you have friends over. A good kitchen island needs to provide ample space for all your activities. So the first step toward designing your kitchen island is to think about storage and functionality.
A common mistake most people make is to assume that the prep sink should be placed in the center of the kitchen island. Even though this placement seems logical, it limits the remaining counter space on either side of the sink. By placing the sink on one end of the island, two-thirds of the surface can be freed for work. Another splendid idea is to build small cubbies for your cookbooks!
Choosing the right material
Picking the perfect material for your kitchen island is essential. It is a decision where budget, time, and aesthetics all need to be considered. Kitchen islands can be costly but using IKEA cabinets and countertops. If your aesthetic is more petite and airy, then using IKEA Sektion cabinets paired with plywood fluting would give a flawless finish to your kitchen design. The plywood fluting adds a contemporary look and stands out beautifully, especially if your kitchen cabinets are in darker tones.
You can find various options in the IKEA collection for the top of the kitchen island. Each design is available in wood veneer and laminate countertops. Some more expensive options also include quartz and marble. You have numerous options for kitchen island doors between unpainted and painted doors. If choosing the perfect material is not your strong suit, you can consult a professional to help you make the best decision.
Color contrast and aesthetic
If you have a small kitchen and want to make a significant impact with your kitchen island, then use colors to create a pop! If your aesthetic is eclectic, choose a unique color for your kitchen island and accentuate the island with IKEA handles.
The stylish pink island can be enhanced with gold handles and faucets. Pairing hardware with the base color of your kitchen island will completely transform your kitchen design.
For those who root for the bohemian vibe, choosing a marble countertop with a bamboo island front will bring your vision to reality. Add house plants and overhead pendant lights for the ambiance. This design is not only glamorous and relaxing but also sustainable and eco-friendly.
Make Space for Bar Stools
For many families, the kitchen island is also where they have the first enjoyable moment of their day. If your kitchen has limited eat-in space, build a kitchen island that doubles as a dining nook. Choose an extra-long IKEA countertop, and let it hang off the side of your customized kitchen island. This would be the perfect place to slide a few bar stools or high chairs, giving you a cozy spot to sit down the next time you enjoy a meal.
Add a Built-In Stovetop
Lastly, let’s remember that your kitchen island can be something other than just a counter space. It can be a multi-functional area for your meal prep, dining nook, homework, and socializing with your friends; while being used for all those, and it can also accommodate a stovetop! IKEA sells a range of induction cooktops—sleek, space-efficient, and surprisingly easy to build into your island. Use your island to bridge the gap if your kitchen is low on cooking space.
With Ikea kitchen designers such as Hive Kitchen Remodeling, you can receive a 3D plan of your space, so there are no measurement or design flaws in your kitchen. The 3D planning tool is a must for creating your layout, especially when incorporating a kitchen island. You can also book a consultation today by giving us a call. If you’re interested in learning more about our service, make sure to check out: Our Services
