- Kitchens
From Dream to Design: Picking an Island for Your STORI Kitchen
A kitchen island can completely change the way you use your kitchen. It’s extra prep space, a social area, and a stylish centrepiece all in one. But with so many options out there, how do you choose the right one for your home?
In this blog, we’ll share simple tips to help you pick an island that fits your space, suits your lifestyle, and looks amazing. Ready to find your perfect island? Let’s get started.
Assess Your Space
Before you fall in love with a grand island design, take a good look at your kitchen’s layout and size. Measure the available space and remember you’ll need at least 36 to 48 inches (or about 1,000–1,100mm) of clearance around the island for comfortable movement. If you’ve got a dishwasher or oven opposite the island, make sure there’s enough room for doors to open and people to pass without doing the sideways shuffle.
For seating, allow a 250–300mm overhang so knees aren’t bumping into panels. And if you’re working with a galley kitchen or a tighter layout, consider a peninsula instead. A peninsula kitchen layout incorporates a countertop that juts out from a wall or cabinetry, giving you the benefits of an island without compromising space for food prep or seating.
Tip: Use painter’s tape to mark out the island footprint on your floor. Open appliance doors, pretend to unload the dishwasher, and see how it feels. If it’s cramped, it’s time to rethink the size.
Wakefield – Taupe Grey
Define Your Needs
What do you want your island to do? Some are designed purely for prep space, while others incorporate sinks, cooktops, or seating. Think about your must-haves such as extra storage, a breakfast bar, wine racks, or built-in appliances, and make a list to help you prioritise when planning or browsing.
Winslow – Taupe Grey and Willow
Choose the Right Shape and Size
Kitchen islands come in all shapes including rectangular, square, L-shaped, or even circular. The best choice depends on your kitchen’s footprint and flow. Rectangular islands are most common, but don’t be afraid to customise the shape to fit awkward spaces or to accommodate specific functions.
Interested in finding out more about kitchen layouts? Check out our in-depth guide, available here.
Select Materials That Match Your Style
Your island is a focal point, so pick materials that complement your kitchen’s overall look. For countertops, popular choices include wood, quartz, granite, and butcher block. The base can blend with your cabinetry or make a statement with a contrasting colour or finish.
When selecting worktops, balance beauty and practicality. Quartz is durable and low-maintenance, granite offers natural elegance, and solid surfaces like Corian® provide seamless, repairable finishes. Timber adds warmth but needs regular oiling, while porcelain and ultra-compact surfaces are super tough and stylish. Laminate is budget-friendly but needs a little extra care.
Want a modern touch? Consider a waterfall edge or a thicker front profile for a chunkier look.
Clifden – Heritage Green and Porcelain
Plan for Seating
If you want your island to double as a dining or socialising spot, make sure there’s enough overhang for stools and plenty of legroom. As a rule of thumb, allow about 24 inches (600mm) of width per person for comfortable seating. Pair standard-height tops (900mm) with stools around 650–700mm seat height and consider a built-in footrest on your seating for extra comfort. Rounded corners and smooth edges are a win if you’ve got kids.
Aylesford – Lava
Maximise Storage
Islands can offer valuable extra storage, so make the most of it. Think deep drawers for pots and pans, practical cupboards for larger items, pull-out larders and bins for easy access, or open shelving for a stylish display. Add clever organisers for cutlery, trays, and spices to keep everything neat and accessible.
Newcombe – Indigo and Light Grey
Style & Finish: Coordinate or Contrast
Match your island with your cabinetry for a seamless look or make a statement with a contrasting colour or finish. Shaker style doors offer timeless character, while sleek slab fronts create a modern vibe. Elevate the design with bold handles, fluted panels, or decorative end panels for extra personality.
Lawrenson – Shell and Antique Red
Plan for Lighting and Power
Good lighting is essential for any kitchen island, not just for style, but for safe and efficient prep Pendant lights above the island add both function and flair, while under-counter flexible LED strip lighting creates a warm, inviting glow. If your island includes appliances or doubles as a workspace, plan for power too. Pop-up sockets, discreet side outlets, or even wireless charging pads under the worktop can make everyday tasks easier and keep your space clutter-free.
Zola Soft-Matte – White | Arrington – Taupe Grey and Cannon Black
Ready to Create Your Perfect Island?
Your kitchen island should feel like it belongs, perfectly with your space and lifestyle. Whether you’re dreaming of a cosy breakfast bar, a chef’s prep station, or a stylish social area, planning ahead makes all the difference.
If you’d like expert advice on incorporating a kitchen islands into your space, our network of STORI retailers across the UK and Ireland are here to help. Find your nearest showroom and let’s bring your vision to life.
