Level Up Your Kitchen Island
Itโs no secret that kitchen islands are a must-have, but that doesnโt mean you canโt explore a variety of options that are outside your run-of-the-mill shapes and sizes. Take this case for example, a two-seated elevated breakfast bar paired with a lowered prep station (sink included). Pretty dashing right?
Creating a two-tiered kitchen island welcomes an array of benefits, and for this on-the-tall-side family, height and comfort were the two main components. โEach family member was over six feet tall, which meant the taller the countertop height, the better,โ says Normandy Designer Laura Barber.โSince the home already featured a dining area, we thought weโd include a more casual eating spot for breakfast or late-night meals where any member could comfortably pop into a seat and enjoy a snack or two.โ
When creating a mixed height kitchen island station, there are a few variables to consider. โThe elevated walnut countertop is bar height, which is 42 inches and is paired with bar height swivel chairs,” Laura notes. “Iโve been in scenarios where homeowners have opted for higher than the standard 42 inch countertop height ย but when paired with a standard height bar stool, it’s a mismatch. If you opt for a specialty height, youโll need to either invest in an adjustable option or consider some custom seating to make things feel a bit more comfortable.โ
Countertop depth is another variable to be aware of, especially in an elevated section designed for seating. โWeโd recommend staying at a minimum of 18 inches deep because if the countertop space is too shallow, you ย may unwittingly knock off your plate or glass,โ Laura adds.
Now that weโve got the height situation sorted, letโs move onto elbow room. โThe standard is to allow 24โ of width for each person,โ Laura states. โThis is so that people can come and go freely, without disrupting the people on the other side of their chair. If things are a bit tight, opt for a bar stool that has a slim width so that the chair itself doesnโt contribute to tighter clearances.โ
If youโve got some questions when it comes to your kitchenโs remodel and need some expert assistance, set up a time with Laura to discuss your homeโs possibilities.ย For design inspiration and other tips and tricks, you can also follow Normandy Remodeling on Facebook and Instagram.