Islands Designed for Narrow Kitchens - Tips and Inspiration
Kitchen islands are coveted for the extra storage, seating, and work surface they provide. But what about small or narrow kitchens under 6 feet wide? Fear not, there are island options sized just right for petite kitchen spaces. From wheeled carts to drop-leaf designs, you can find an island to fit. Keep reading for tips and inspiration for islands tailored to narrow kitchens.
An island not only adds function, but style and value to a kitchen. The key is finding the right proportions and features for your limited square footage. Don't let a skinny kitchen discourage you from the benefits gained. With some creativity and compact designs, you can have an island even in the narrowest kitchen.
Types of Islands for Small Kitchens
When space is tight, consider one of these specialized island styles made for narrow floorplans:
Kitchen Carts
Kitchen carts are a movable island option perfect for small kitchens. Mounted on wheels or casters, they can roll where needed and tuck away when not in use. Carts take up minimal floor space with their narrow frames. Many offer storage options like shelves, drawers and racks. Their portable versatility suits tiny kitchens that lack space for a permanent island.
Narrow Rolling Islands
Slim rolling islands are long and narrow to fit in tight spots. They're designed to roll against a wall or out of the way when floor space is needed. Some feature drop-leaf extensions on one or both sides to expand the workspace as desired. Their integrated storage keeps kitchen tools and cookware organized yet hidden.
Drop-Leaf Islands
A drop-leaf island has folding leaves that lower to extend the countertop surface. When you don't need the extra workspace, simply lift the hinged leaf up into place, reducing the island's footprint. The expandable top accommodates tasks when needed. Drop-leaf islands can be freestanding on casters or permanently installed. Their space-saving adaptability makes them ideal for petite kitchens.
Mini Prep Islands
For the tiniest kitchens, a mini prep island may be the perfect fit. Ranging from 2-4 feet wide, they offer just enough space for food prep tasks or displaying baked goods. Storage nooks and cubbies keep utensils and cookware at hand without taking up precious real estate. The downside is limited seating and dining space. But for wee kitchens, a mini island provides useful workspace.
Maximize Your Narrow Kitchen Island
To make the most of your small island, keep these design tips in mind:
Choose the Right Size
Allow ample room for walking around your island with 42 inches of clearance on all sides. Most standard islands are around 36-42 inches high and 36-48 inches wide. But petite kitchens need a more compact size of 30-36 inches wide and 16-18 inches deep. Just ensure there is usable countertop space after allowing for overhang.
Seating Styles
Counter stools allow seating without taking up much room. Allow a 12 inch overhang for comfortable seating. Backless stools tuck neatly away when not in use. Bench seating built into an island end maximizes seating in a small footprint. Choose stools no more than 19 inches wide to conserve precious space.
Storage Solutions
Maximize every inch with slide-out trays, open shelves and cubby holes. Islands on wheels often have storage bins in their base. Drawer stacks and pull-out cabinets hold essentials in a condensed width. Hang utensils from racks mounted on the sides. Any storage that reduces visual clutter is a win.
Multifunction Design
Distribute features strategically on each side. Devote one side to seating and dining needs with stools and a serving area. Then allow the other side for food prep tasks like chopping and mixing. Built-in storage keeps items handy but out of sight.
Style Considerations
Just because it's small doesn't mean an island can't deliver big style. Keep these design elements in mind:
Materials
Islands can be crafted from wood, metal, laminates or a combination. Granite, marble, or tile countertops add decorative appeal. The base cabinetry can be painted, stained, or given a weathered finish. There are many material options to suit your aesthetic.
Finishes
Clean, light finishes avoid a cluttered look. Crisp Shaker-style cabinets with recessed panel doors and drawer fronts keep the island looking airy. A classic white island contrasts beautifully with stained main cabinets without competing.
Shape
Rectangular islands are the most affordable and can fit narrow spots beautifully. For a change, try a curved or angled island shape. Just be mindful of traffic flow and allow proper clearance. The island's silhouette can complement your kitchen's overall layout.
Don't settle for a kitchen devoid of an island just because of limited space. Tailored options like wheeled carts and drop-leaf islands suit narrow kitchens beautifully. Focus on compact footprints and built-in storage to maximize functionality. A thoughtfully designed petite island can transform a small kitchen into a spacious, efficient workspace. With some creative solutions, even the narrowest kitchen can accommodate an island and enjoy the benefits.
By selecting space-saving styles, features and finishes, you can install an island without sacrificing precious square footage or freedom of movement. Your island possibilities are far from limited, even if your kitchen is. A well-designed compact island can provide extra storage, seating and workspace while enhancing your small kitchen's style.