RenovatorsPlace

The Home Remodeling Resource for Renovators

Article Search

Contractor Directory

Maximizing Kitchen Island Storage

Renovators Place Columnist
Oct 08, 2009

Share This Article: del.icio.us | Digg | Reddit | StumbleUpon

If your kitchen lacks adequate storage space, look to an island for relief. This multi-functional area can help boost storage space and make your kitchen design more efficient.

Define Storage Needs

Before designing the island layout, consider your storage needs. Do you need storage for:

Large pots and pans? You'll need large, deep cabinets or drawers.
Spices and utensils? You'll need smaller compartments or specially designed spice racks.
Table linens? You'll need deep cabinet drawers, possibly with dividers for napkins and napkin rings.
Decorative items, such as cookbooks, glass bottles and knick knacks? Consider keeping a few open shelves on the end of the island

Add Island Storage Cabinets

A kitchen island can take many shapes, but if your goal is to find a home for all those pots, pans and utensils, then make sure the island has plenty of storage cabinets. This typically means making the base of the island out of kitchen cabinets, usually 18 to 27 inches wide. Also consider adding:

Roll out drawers for easier access.
Shelf dividers to maximize vertical space.
Bins for storing dish towels
A wine rack.

Add Wall Cabinets Over Island

If your kitchen design allows for it, consider adding wall cabinets that are attached to the ceiling or a partial wall. These storage cabinets are typically 30 or 36-inches high, and can include glass doors to bring in light. The glass can be clear or opaque, depending on how much visibility you want. This type of storage cabinet is ideal for storing:

Fine china and glassware.
Unique colored bottles.
Silver or other valuable pieces.

Add Storage Under Island Seating

Many people add seating around an island, but consider the area under the seats to be wasted space. By adding kitchen cabinets with doors under the seating, you gain valuable storage cabinets that can be reserved for infrequently used items, such as:

Holiday dishes, glassware and linens.
Large serving platters and mixing bowls.
Picnic baskets.

There are many ways to add storage on a kitchen island. Be creative and try to maximize every inch of space.

About the Author
Allison E. Beatty is a syndicated real estate writer who has been writing home improvement columns for 15 years.