Just about every kitchen can benefit from a well-designed island or peninsular unit. Amongst other things, good kitchen design is about using space effectively. And, although you might think islands are only suitable for larger kitchens, a bespoke unit will ensure that whatever your kitchen’s shape and size, an island will work hard for you.
Islands also work brilliantly as hubs for everyone to congregate around, so if you prefer to cook and chat, an island is a must-have. Adding complementary appliances – for example, a wow-factor wok burner or a tepan - is another way of making your island a multi-tasking area. A smaller sink for prepping works well, as does a boiling water tap, or a tap with a pull-out rinse. At a lower level, think about using your island for serious storage – wide, roomy drawers are perfect for pots and pans, while open shelving can house your cookbook collection. Integrating a small wine cooler works well, too.
In the spirit of island life, here are some of our best…
PS – One of our favourite islands was recently featured in a blog post on Rated People.com – read and see it here.
This island was designed for a super-keen cook – and its shows. Its placement within the kitchen scheme is key – within easy reach of the kitchen’s range and double built-in Gaggenau ovens. The small sink and tap is a useful addition, whilst the deep oak breakfast bar not only looks stunning against the painted cabinetry, but is also a highly practical feature, allowing family friends to pull up a chair and be part of the kitchen’s hubbub.
This is the epitome of the classic country kitchen, with what must be one of the hardest working islands we have ever designed and crafted. Kate Shreffler comments, “This island has it all – there’s a full size Belfast sink, a Franke FilterFlow tap, double ovens, a warming drawer and even an integrated, slimline dishwasher. I love that there’s also oodles of storage – those slatted bottom shelves and deep, square drawers either side of the sink are lovely.”
This island’s fusion of luxe materials – cherry wood, gloss cabinetry and dark granite – make it a real show stopper. It’s very much the focal point of the kitchen – and the pedestal table, which is semi-integrated into the bowed front of the island is very individualised. There are a lot of different textures and shapes in this kitchen – but they complement each other very well. A chunky hob, with a griddle and iron burners, plus a prep sink and tap add practicality. A small, but clever detail is the satin steel banding around the base of the island – protecting the wood and cabinetry’s glossy finish.
For more information about Bryan Turner Kitchen Furniture and accessories, give us a call at 01953 660762 and speak to a member of our expert team today or Email us at enquiries@bryanturnerkitchens.com. We look forward to hearing from you.
