Big islands are not just a trend. If you have the space, just go for it! For us, the bigger the island the better the kitchen! There are so many reasons for designing a kitchen around a big-ass island, but here are some of the biggies ...
Storage, storage, storage!
Big islands mean big storage spaces - especially if you're able to put the range and sink along the walls of your kitchen. And if you wanna get real fancy, your island would be the perfect place to install some hidden drawers too. Now THAT is storage savvy!
Entertaining
Now, we don't know about you, but when we have gatherings at the house, the island becomes the ultimate buffet table. Perfect for large group gatherings, or an informal family-Sunday setting. (Added bonus of a big island, means more space to fill with food!) Alternatively, an island can become a great place for your guests to gather around and have a chat before or after dinner, catching up over an early evening or post-feast drink.
Prep
Large islands mean not only ample space to display your food, but also extra room to prep! Think pizza nights, Thanksgiving dinners, birthday brunches, football Sundays. The list goes on!
(Above are just some of our fave islands from other designers - Studio McGee/Shand Design/Three Birds Renovations/Becki Owens/Kate Marker Interiors/Emily Henderson/Amber Interiors)
Casual Seating
We're a casual clan, so having informal seating around the island to eat is a must for us!
WOW Factor
If you're in the market for something that will make a lasting impression, and huge island will do just the trick. Make a statement! Go big or go home, that's our motto!
Pro Tip:
For fear of slabs that are too small, when it comes to creating your dream kitchen island, our advice is to start by finding the slab that you want and see how big it comes, then design your cabinet layout. That way, you won't get stuck with a seam in the middle of your island if something were to not be as expected! Natural Quartzite like the countertop above (grandly named Taj Mahal) or a jumbo Caesarstone slab, would be your best bet.
P.S., remember when selecting slabs to account for an overhang for the bar seating!