Get Creative with Irregularly Shaped Kitchen Islands

Tired of boxy, rectangular islands? Why not embrace a more creative approach to kitchen design with an island shape that breaks the mold. Unconventional island shapes like curves, angles, bump-outs, and asymmetric edges can add visual punch, improve workflow, and give your kitchen a one-of-a-kind look.

Curves and Ovals for Flow

A curved or oval island is an elegant way to soften the typical hard edges and right angles found in most kitchens. The softer lines lend a graceful flow and can help delineate kitchen zones without an abrupt transition.

When planning a curved island, pay close attention to the measurements. Be sure to account for adequate clearance on all sides, including any overhang space needed for seating. Curved and oval islands often require custom-made cabinets and countertops to achieve those seamless lines.

Strategically placed, a curved island can improve traffic flow. A sweeping oval island can separate a cluttered work zone from a clean dining area. Place a rounded island near an entryway to gently guide movement through the kitchen.

Get Angular with Creative Corners

Angles and corners present another opportunity to break up boxiness. An L-shaped island provides ample prep space and storage while defining the kitchen's footprint. Place it to block off a work zone or to distinguish a dining nook.

More dramatic yet, a V-shaped or U-shaped island makes a bold geometric statement. Be sure to avoid tight corners that create bottlenecks and awkard spaces. Account for ample walkways and clearance around both sides of the island.

Maximize Space with Peninsula Islands

Attached on one side to a wall or other structure, a peninsula island can effectively maximize work surface area. The extended side piece gives you more countertop real estate for meal prep tasks or casual dining.

Peninsula islands work especially well in narrow galley kitchens. Place against a wall to separate work zones or in the middle to divide the kitchen into two distinct areas. You can never have too much countertop space - a peninsula island provides it without dominating the whole room.

Get Fragmented with Asymmetric Islands

For a truly avant-garde look, consider an island with an irregular abstract shape. Instead of straight uniform edges, an asymmetric island has bump outs, cutaway sections, and varied depths.

This inventive approach lends artistic flair to an ordinary kitchen layout. Fragmenting your island into multiple sections can also help delineate functional zones like prep, cleanup, and dining.

When planning an irregularly shaped island, pay close attention to the individual sections. Avoid tight cramped corners or bottlenecks between sections. Account for usable space in each area, not just dramatic angles and edges.

Unexpected Shapes Like Stars and Kidneys

Feeling adventurous? How about a star-shaped island, kidney bean island, or some other uniquely organic shape. While not the most functional choice, unexpected island shapes can infuseplayful whimsy into your kitchen design.

Keep these types of adventurous islands relatively small. They often function better as prep islands or bistro-height snack bars rather than full meal prep stations. Be sure to allow adequate clearance for circulation and traffic flow around the uniquely shaped island.

While creativity is encouraged, odd-shaped islands do present some function and design considerations. Here are some tips to ensure your unconventionally shaped island is both beautiful and usable:

• Allow adequate clearance on all sides for circulation and traffic flow.
• Account for overhang space needed - 10-12 inches is typical.
• Carefully measure and plan for placements of sinks, cooktops.
• Select durable countertop materials that can be fabricated seamlessly.
• Factor in requirements for custom cabinetry and storage.

With some thoughtful planning and expert workmanship, you can definitely get creative with irregularly shaped kitchen islands. Break out of the box and embrace an artistic, avant-garde island shape that gives your kitchen an exciting new look!