Regarding the development of the kitchen, I believe that the kitchen island is as important as the sliced ​​bread. This brilliant concept has been around for a while, but it’s really taking a new turn with all the things you can put on your island today. It used to be that you only had a little bit of storage and a countertop, now you can manage the entire kitchen from just the island area.

Many islands are set up for additional dining spaces, with elegant bar stools to sit on, a sort of buffet area where a variety of delicious dishes can be placed. But today’s islands also offer the chef a wide range of options depending on his own culinary habits. My mom has her stove in the island, along with a microwave, a built-in curio cabinet to display her favorite collectibles. Other islands I’ve seen have built-in dishwashers and even appliances like ice makers, trash compactors, and small refrigerators. Yes, if you wanted your oven there you could. There really is no limit to how you can design your island to suit your needs.

I’ll take that back. The biggest limitation is the size of your kitchen. Some are so small there’s no way a permanent fixture would work, I couldn’t help it. To that end, you’ll want to consider a kitchen island cart. Something that is flexible, movable, something that can be stored out of the way when not in use.

Unfortunately, my kitchen is too small to have a useful island, but in my next home I plan to make sure the kitchen is big enough for one. I think they are fantastic.