Which would make a better addition to a modern kitchen: a kitchen island or a peninsula? Well, it depends on the size of your kitchen, needs and preferences. Here are the factors you need to take into account when choosing between a kitchen island and kitchen peninsula.
Kitchen Floor Space
If you have a small kitchen, a kitchen peninsula could be a better choice. It is attached to a kitchen wall and has only three sides, as opposed to kitchen islands, which are a standalone feature with four sides. On the other hand, if you have an open-plan kitchen, a kitchen island could be a better fit.
How can you tell if there’s enough floor space in your kitchen for a kitchen island or peninsula? Here are some general rules of kitchen design:
- A kitchen island should have at least 36 inches of clearance on all four sides so it won’t hamper the flow of movement in the kitchen.
- The kitchen work triangle—the space between your refrigerator, stove and sink—shouldn’t overlap or cut through the kitchen island or peninsula by more than 12 inches.
- There shouldn’t be too much foot traffic within the kitchen triangle.
If you’re not sure about how much square footage you have in your kitchen, you can have kitchen contractors inspect your home. When in doubt, always ask a professional.
Functionality & Preference
There isn’t much difference between the two in terms of function, although kitchen islands tend to have more counter space. It mostly boils down to preference: do you like to entertain guests while cooking or do you prefer to focus on preparing meals?
If you often have guests over for dinner, a kitchen island might be more suited to your needs. While cooking dishes, you can catch up with friends and family who are seated at the kitchen island. If you like to focus on your cooking, a kitchen peninsula, which is essentially an extension of the kitchen, creates a border between the kitchen and the rest of your home.
Design Flexibility
Being the more popular option, kitchen islands come in a wide variety of designs, making them a better choice for homeowners who want to experiment a bit with kitchen design. Kitchen peninsulas, on the other hand, may not have as many design options but they’re easier to install, making them ideal for homeowners who want a straightforward kitchen remodel.
Let’s Start a Conversation!
DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen of Orland Park serves residents of Tinley Park, Blue Island and other southwest Chicago suburbs. To get started with a no-obligation consultation, call us at (708) 320-3417 or contact us online!
