Kitchen islands have been popular in modern homes for decades. The appeal of the open-concept kitchen creates a need for more counter space while still keeping an open and inviting feel. There are many types of kitchen islands and different ways to implement them in your own space. If you’re thinking of adding a kitchen island as part of a remodel or new home build, here are the basic types to know:
A rolling cart island is a convenient and versatile way to add more usable space and storage to your kitchen. Rolling carts are small and make for great prep or serving areas. The wheels make them easy to move to any part of the kitchen if needed, so in smaller kitchens, many opt for keeping them against a wall when not in use. Rolling carts can come in a variety of styles with features like open shelving, drawers, towel hangers, butcher-block counters and more.
Similar in size to a rolling cart, a small, non-portable kitchen island provides the same prep space and functionality as a permanent fixture in the kitchen. They provide enough room for basic tasks and storage but often come with flip-up table leaves to increase surface area. These look much more like built-in kitchen islands than carts but are similarly inexpensive and don’t take up a lot of space.
You can use a table as a kitchen island if you have the room. Many homeowners opt for tall, narrow tables similar to a breakfast bar rather than square or round tables. Island tables are perfect for food prep, serving meals or setting up a party buffet. Depending on the type of table you use, there may or may not be built-in storage, so keep that in mind when making your decision.
Some kitchen islands consist of a couple of base cabinets and a piece of countertop. These islands use the same cabinets and countertops as the rest of your kitchen and make for a cohesive look. The cabinets may have doors, drawers or a mixture of both, while providing a sizable amount of storage. Because you must affix this type of island to the floor, it is considered officially “permanent” according to electrical codes.
Fully integrated kitchen islands have plumbing and electricity built in. Some have a second sink in addition to the main kitchen sink. Many of these islands also include a gas or electric range. These islands are expensive and difficult to install because they require a lot of extra work to connect the water and electrical power. However, they are highly functional and add great value to a home.
These are just the basic kitchen islands you’ll see available through builders and home improvement resources. Consider the options carefully to find out which is best for your kitchen.
Max Mitchell epitomizes integrity, energy, hard work, and creative services in every detail of your real estate transaction. With over 40 years of experience in the Champaign-Urbana area, Max has established himself as a trusted and successful real estate agent. He is proud to be a Ramsey Trusted real estate agent, providing top-notch service to his clients.
Max's sales journey began at a young age, selling The News Gazette in his neighborhood. Since then, he has worked in every aspect of the industry, representing sellers, buyers, investors, and banks in both residential and commercial markets.
As a family man, Max holds a strong devotion to God and his beautiful wife, two children, and two lovely granddaughters. He's an adventurer by nature and enjoys floating over Champaign-Urbana in his hot air balloon, often traveling to attend the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta and other events throughout the summertime. Max also challenges himself with early morning cycling classes at Mettler Center and the YMCA, finding it a great way to recharge and connect with others.
Max's sales expertise has been shaped by renowned mentors such as Dale Carnegie, Tom Hopkins, Mike and Tom Ferry, and Brian Bufini. He believes in giving back to both the industry and the community. Max serves on the Illinois REALTORS Board of Directors, has been President of the Champaign County Associations of REALTORS, and holds a seat on the Champaign County Board in district 5. He remains active within the community, contributing his time and expertise to organizations such as Visit Champaign County Board, Champaign County Economic Development Board, and the Willard Airport Advisory Committee.
When it comes to working with Max Mitchell, you can count on five key qualities: Love, Integrity, Commitment, Passion, and FUN. With Max as your real estate agent, you can trust that your transaction will be handled with the utmost care and professionalism.
