How Big Should Your Kitchen Island Be? How to Calculate

Wondering what the ideal kitchen island size is? We’ve got you covered!

Learn what to consider before adding an island to your kitchen and how to factor its size into your overall design.

What Is The Purpose Of A Kitchen Island?

Kitchen islands have become increasingly popular in home design as they are multi-functional and can be a beautiful design statement in your space.

For example, you can use a kitchen island as extra prep space, a place to set out dishes and platters when you’re hosting, homework space, or a breakfast bar.

Whatever you use it for, it needs to fit in your space well and not overpower the room. That’s where factoring your layout and design comes into play.

How Big Should My Kitchen Island Be?

In general, your kitchen island should not be more than one-fifteenth of your overall kitchen floor space.

It doesn’t matter if you have an open concept or a singular room devoted to your cooking and food prep needs; it should not be overwhelming.

As a rule of thumb, there should be at least a three-foot gap between the edge of your kitchen island and any other furniture in the room. In addition, the gap between the island and your fixed cabinets against the wall should be around 47 inches.

This ensures you have enough room to pull chairs out, walk around, and open other cabinet doors. The last thing you want is to feel cramped!

As you’re considering the size, you’ll also want to consider the material as well. For example, waterfall islands have clean lines and sturdy bases, whereas kitchen islands that look more like large tables can have additional overhangs and decorative legs.

While it may not interfere with your other furniture or design, you’ll want to test things out before committing to a particular material.

One of the best ways to test out an island size in your space is to use painter’s tape on the floor. Simply tape out the dimensions of the island where you would like it, and then tape out the additional needs, such as a table or cabinet placement.

Other Factors To Consider For Your Ideal Kitchen Island Size

Although your floorplan itself is the biggest consideration when it comes to figuring out how big should your kitchen island be, there are a few more things to keep in mind:

Kitchen Island Cabinets

The kitchen cabinets beneath your island are a vital feature of your kitchen. Ensure they match your countertop and work with the rest of the kitchen.

Light Fixtures

Are you adding a new island to an existing space? If so, consider where your light fixtures are.

If you’re designing a whole new kitchen, make sure the lights you choose are large enough to fit the size of the island but not too big that you bump into them or hit them while you’re using the countertop.

Stool Size

If you’re wanting to add barstools to your kitchen island, measure them! You don’t want to commit to stools that are too tall or too short for the island or too wide to be able to pull out easily.

How Big Should Your Kitchen Island Be? You Decide!

Whether you’re wanting to make a statement or just need more counter space, you can find your ideal kitchen island size with the tips in this article.

And for more tips and tricks for kitchen layout and design, head to our blog to learn more!