Everything You Need to Know About 60" x 36" Kitchen Islands
With open floor plans continuing to trend, kitchen islands have become a popular way to delineate kitchen space while adding extra prep area and storage. One of the most versatile island dimensions is 60" wide by 36" deep. This mid-sized island design can adapt to fit all different kitchen layouts and styles.
Read on to learn how this island size can maximize your kitchen's functionality and flow.
What is a 60" x 36" Kitchen Island?
A 60" x 36" island is sized to provide ample workspace and storage without overwhelming a kitchen. The five foot width allows enough room for meal prep and entertaining. Yet it's not so wide that it completely disrupts the flow of traffic and triangles in the kitchen.
The 36" depth accommodates standard countertop overhangs on either side. This leaves plenty of leg room for seating while keeping enough surface area for food prep and serving. It's a versatile size that can multitask as a dining spot, work station, and storage solution.
Common Styles and Materials
Islands measuring 60" x 36" can take on many different looks through finishings and materials. Traditional islands often feature ornate turned legs and molding details with a wood or painted finish. Modern islands tend to have straight, square legs in metal finishes for an industrial vibe.
Countertops also affect the style, whether it's natural stone like granite, sleek quartz, or classic butcher block. The island can match your existing kitchen cabinetry or provide contrast with different stains, paint colors, and materials.
Some islands have fixed legs while others utilize locking wheels for mobility. Wheels make a movable island that can roll where needed for extra floor space or to be tucked out of the way.
Benefits of a Kitchen Island
A 60" wide island offers several benefits for your kitchen space:
- Extra prep space and work area for cooking and baking tasks
- Seating and eating area for quick casual meals
- Storage solutions like drawers, shelves, and cabinets
- Way to delineate kitchen zone in open concept homes
By centering it in your kitchen, a 60" x 36" island can become a functional focal point. Let's look at how to select the perfect island design for your needs.
Selecting the Perfect Island Design
With so many possible configurations, choosing an island takes some planning. Follow these steps to design a 60" x 36" island tailored to your kitchen.
Measure Your Kitchen
Start by measuring your available floor space. An island should have at least 42" clearance on all sides for traffic flow. If adding seating, allow 15" overhang for stool clearance.
Check sight lines from surrounding cabinetry or walls. You generally want to see all sides of the island, so position it accordingly. Confirm the 60" x 36" size will fit well within your existing layout.
Choose an Island Shape
The most common shape is rectangular or square with four straight sides and 90 degree corners. For a softer look, some islands have rounded or curved edges on one side. Custom designs can feature unique shapes like triangles, trapezoids, or abstract angles.
Consider your seating needs as curved islands allow more barstool space than sharp 90 degree corners. But rectangular islands utilize every inch of surface area if max prep space is key.
Pick a Countertop
Granite, marble, quartz, laminate, and butcher block are go-to island countertop options. Evaluate them for durability, ease of maintenance, and style.
Natural stone surfaces like granite must be sealed to prevent staining but provide beauty. Budget-friendly laminate comes in tons of colors and patterns. Both granite and quartz offer high durability.
Butcher block requires oiling to prevent cracking but brings warmth. Add a decorative overhang to showcase your countertop material.
Storage Solutions
A 60" wide island has room for customizable storage. Enclosed cabinets store large pots and pans or baking sheets. Drawers keep utensils, gadgets, and organizers in easy reach.
Open shelves or cubbies provide decorative display for cookbooks, plants, and barware. Carefully plan interior configurations to get the most out of your island real estate.
To Wheel or Not to Wheel
Islands can have either stationary legs or wheels for mobility. Locking wheels allow you to move the island as needed for open floor space or to tuck it out of the way.
But fixed legs provide maximum stability, especially for islands with countertop overhangs. Consider your goals, kitchen size, and existing features to decide on wheels versus legs.
Finishes and Hardware
The island's finish and hardware should coordinate with your kitchen design. Match wood stains or paint colors to tie the island to your cabinetry. Choosing complementary hardware like bronze knobs or brushed nickel pulls will make the island feel integrated.
Seating
To use your island for casual dining or drinks, allow a 12-15" overhang on one side. This leaves leg room for stools tucked under the counter. Determine how many seats you need, then pick stool height and style.
Curved islands create even more seating space. But you can add stools to a straight edge island too. Having a place to perch makes the island even more functional and communal.
Get the Most Out of Your Island
A 60" x 36" island can serve many purposes. Take advantage of all this island size has to offer with these tips:
Maximize Prep Space
Keep frequently used cooking items like oils, spices, and utensils on the island for easy access. The open concept provides visibility so you don't have to hunt through drawers and cabinets.
Use the generous surface as a landing zone for ingredients when prepping elaborate meals. The island provides the perfect space for an assembly line when cooking for a crowd.
Increase Storage
Maximize every inch inside your 60" wide island, from deep cabinets to narrow drawers for utensils. Pull-out shelves and corner lazy susans make the most of awkward interior spaces.
Group like items together in designated drawers or cabinet zones to stay organized. You'll know exactly where to find what you need.
Enjoy Casual Dining
Barstools around your kitchen island create space for quick meals, homework, or game day drinks. With seating for multiple people, it provides a casual gathering spot without the space commitment of a formal dining area.
The open design allows you to chat with family and friends as you prep food. The island keeps the cook included in the action.
Kitchen Work Triangle Flow
Properly position a 60" wide island to maintain efficient movement between your sink, fridge, and ovens. It should not disrupt major traffic patterns.
Frame the kitchen work zone without blocking key appliances or exits. This allows smooth navigation around your kitchen for multiple cooks.
Design Inspiration and Examples
To spark your design creativity, browse photos of 60" x 36" islands implemented in various kitchens. This size adapts well to small galley kitchens, large open designs, and everything in between. See islands dressed up in traditional white painted finishes or stainless steel for an industrial vibe. Notice how an extended countertop overhang accommodates barstool seating. Observe the scale and placement of 60" wide islands in real home kitchens.
With the right layout and features, a 60" x 36" island can upgrade both the form and function of your kitchen. This versatile mid-sized island can multitask for extra prep space, casual dining, and storage solutions.
Keep traffic flow and measurements in mind when selecting island shape, materials, and accessories. Properly positioned and designed, it can make your kitchen more communal and efficient. Hopefully this overview gives you inspiration to discover the 60" x 36" island difference!