Kitchen Island Planning: Size, Seating and Clearances
Check movement and seating space before adding an island or peninsula.
Start with your home and household
Draw cabinet doors, appliance doors and stools in their open positions. Keep clear walking routes and verify the island does not interrupt the sink-to-hob preparation sequence. Add the relevant measurements and product requirements to the room brief, then compare the proposed layout at full scale before ordering.
A common mistake to avoid
An island is not automatically an upgrade. If it compresses circulation, a peninsula or wider counter may work better. Confirm the final choice against the actual site, the manufacturer's guidance and the people who will use the room.
Before you finalize
- Measure the room and note fixed services, openings and clear walking routes.
- Compare material samples and written specifications, not just names or images.
- Record the agreed scope, budget, installation details and maintenance needs.