A round or oval kitchen island can be a beautiful and functional addition to your kitchen design. The curved edges create a softer, more inviting look compared to a traditional square or rectangular island. But beyond just aesthetics, a round or oval island also provides some unique benefits. Here’s a closer look at what’s the point of opting for this non-traditional island shape.
Provides a Social Hub for Entertaining
One of the biggest perks of a round or oval kitchen island is that it facilitates interaction and conversation. The curved shape allows people to gather around the island more naturally. There’s no awkward corner cutting across the conversational space.
This makes a round or oval island ideal for casual entertaining and family gatherings. Friends can comfortably sit around the island on bar stools and chat while you cook. Or kids can do homework at the island while you prep dinner nearby. The open shape fosters engagement.
Creates an Inviting Look and Feel
The flowing silhouette of a curved island introduces a softer, more organic shape into the often boxy confines of a kitchen. This helps create visual interest and an inviting look. The appeal is similar to the way rounded edges on furniture render a more welcoming feel than sharp corners.
Beyond just visual appeal, the tactile experience of a rounded island is pleasing as well. The curve enables a more ergonomic interaction as you flow around the perimeter. There are no sharp corners to bump into as you move around the workspace.
Allows Flexible Traffic Flow
The rounded edges on an oval or circular island open up the traffic flow around the space. You can smoothly navigate around the island without any hard stopping points.
This gives you flexibility to circulate through the kitchen and access the island from all sides. The open design is especially advantageous in smaller kitchens where a rectangular island may obstruct the workflow.
The easy access to the surface area from multiple entry points also makes a curved island highly functional. You can reach ingredients from any angle.
Facilitates Multiple Work Zones
The expansive rounded surface area provides ample space to incorporate different work zones. For example, you may create a food prep zone on one side while utilizing the other side as an informal dining area.
The shape also lends itself well to tiered designs with a raised eating bar on one side. This allows you to differentiate distinct spaces for cooking, cleaning, food preparation and dining. The continuity of the curve integrates the zones beautifully.
Provides Storage and Seating Options
A round island can maximize seating capacity. The continuous curve enables uninterrupted seating space for multiple bar stools. An oval island similarly allows for bar-height seating along the straight sides.
The space inside a curved island can also be hollowed out for ample storage. The large interior capacity is ideal for storing pots, pans and baking sheets vertically close at hand. It also provides an excellent place to tuck away small appliances when not in use.
Offers Endless Design Possibilities
A curved island provides creative license to get playful with your design scheme. The unique shape stands out as a built-in focal point and lends itself well to innovative finishes.
For example, you may choose to panel the exterior with contrasting materials like marble and wood. Or make it a bold color statement by painting or lacquering the island in a vibrant hue.
The interior base can also be customized with glass door cabinets to display beautiful dishware. Lighting installed inside or under the island further transforms it into an illuminated showpiece.
Maximizes Space Efficiency
While a rectangular island may better suit the confines of a perfectly square kitchen footprint, a round or oval design is often the better choice for oddly laid out spaces. The curved shape can perfectly fill in a narrow galley footprint or a challenging angled nook.
The sweeping curve also eliminates any dead corner spots that may otherwise go unused with a traditional island layout. This helps optimize the utility of every inch.
Brings Balance to the Design Scheme
The rounded edges introduce organic lines into a room of hard angles. This can lend pleasing balance to the overall aesthetic. For example, a circular island helps soften an interior filled with rigid cabinetry silhouettes and perpendicular countertops.
The island can also anchor the space and serve as a central focal point. This is especially helpful in a large, open concept kitchen lacking definition. The curve draws the eye and creates a neat visual endpoint.
Enhances Social and Task Activities
Beyond just facilitating social interaction, the open form of a curved island accommodates multiple tasks occurring simultaneously. For instance, two people can work along the island with plenty of elbow room – one person chopping vegetables on one side while the other is mixing up cookie dough on the opposite end.
The expansive real estate and approachability from all sides also makes this shape highly conducive for multiple cooks sharing the kitchen. The layout invites participation and minimizes traffic jams.
Provides Ergonomic Benefits
A round or oval island can promote a healthier cooking environment. The curved shape allows you to work with your arms following the natural contours of your body, reducing fatigue.
The design also enables an elliptical work pattern around the perimeter. This allows you to flow seamlessly from one task to the next with fewer jarring stop-and-go movements.
What Design Factors Should You Consider?
If you think a curved island may be right for your kitchen, there are a few key factors to contemplate first:
Kitchen Layout
Evaluate your current kitchen footprint and how you circulate through the space. An oval or circular island works best in an open floor plan with plenty of room to navigate around it. Measure to make sure you allow ample clearance for traffic flow on all sides.
In a tight galley layout, a curved island may impede movement. Although a rounded rectangular island can still provide some of the same appeal without dominating the room.
Existing Architecture
Look at built-in factors that may impact the island design, such as ceiling beams, lighting placement and door/window openings. Ensure a round island enhances rather than competes with existing structural elements.
For example, a circular island situated directly under an overhead light fixture or ceiling fan will create visual continuity. Just be sure to account for proper overhead clearance.
Functionality
Consider how you intend to use the island and what features are priorities – extra seating, abundant prep space, storage capacity? This will help determine the ideal footprint, height and interior specifications.
For instance, if supplementary seating is key, an oval or rounded rectangle shape can better accommodate barstools. Just confirm adequate room remains for walking around the seating area.
Traffic Flow
Pay attention to how you navigate through the existing kitchen. Frequently transitioning from the island to other focal points like the stove or refrigerator will impact the optimal placement.
You don’t want traffic routes obstructed. Be sure to map out an island shape and position that aligns with your movement patterns.
Natural Lighting
Curved edges can create interesting shadows and reflections as light hits the island surface. Consider the direction of incoming natural light sources and how the shape may interact with sunlight streaming into the space.
Maximize appeal by orienting the curve to follow or open up to windows and skylights. This will highlight the dimensions and craftsmanship.
What Size Should You Choose?
When deciding on island dimensions, there are some typical size guidelines to help choose what will work best:
- Circular islands are commonly 4 to 6 feet in diameter but can range anywhere from 3 to 10 feet across.
- Oval islands tend to span 4 to 7 feet wide and 5 to 9 feet long.
- Rounded rectangular islands generally extend 4 to 8 feet wide by 5 to 12 feet long.
In determining the right size, consider these factors:
- Interior island storage needs – More surface area provides space for larger cabinets and vertical storage inside the base.
- Seating requirements – Allow about 25-30 inches per stool to comfortably accommodate seating around a portion of the island.
- Workspace area – Make sure there is sufficient surface area on at least one side for food prep, cooking and serving.
- Traffic flow – Bigger is not always better if it clogs up circulation. Ensure enough space around the island to walk through with ease.
As a general rule of thumb, plan for your curved island to take up about 15-25% of your total kitchen footprint. This leaves ample room for surrounding cabinets and appliances.
How Much Space Should You Allow Around the Island?
While traffic flow will dictate how much clearance your layout requires, here are some typical recommendations:
- Kitchen main walkway – Allow at least 48 inches of clearance from the island edge. This gives comfortable passing room for two people.
- Kitchen secondary walkway – Leave about 36 inches from the island side that sees less traffic.
- Seating area – Allow 32-34 inches of legroom clearance from the island edge to any other surface, like other cabinets or walls.
- Working side – For the prep/cooking surface, allow at least 32 inches of clearance if situated across from another kitchen element like a sink.
What’s the Ideal Island Height?
Standard kitchen island height falls between 28 to 45 inches above the floor. Consider these typical guidelines:
- Bar counter height – For seating, install the island counter surface around 42 inches high. This allows comfortable eating and interaction.
- Prep height – A general food prep surface should hit 36 to 37 inches high – suitable for most average stature cooks.
- Lean height – If part of the island will be used for casual leaning and high top seating, go for around 40 to 43 inches.
Factor in the primary uses for your island as well as the height of existing kitchen counters when deciding on the best overall elevation.
Which Materials Work Best?
Kitchen islands take abuse, so durable and easily maintained materials are key. Choose surfaces and finishes that can tolerate spills, cuts, heat and daily wear-and-tear. Here are some smart options:
Countertops
- Granite – This natural stone is virtually indestructible for heavy-use islands. opt for a polished or honed finish.
- Quartz – Non-porous quartz offers the look of granite and marble without the maintenance.
- Laminate – Budget-friendly and easy to clean laminate can mimic pricier materials like granite and solid surfacing.
- Tile – Ceramic or porcelain tile is an affordable contender. Just be sure to use a resilient grout that can tolerate stains.
- Stainless steel – A commercial-grade finish that’s dent-resistant, hygienic and easy to sanitize.
Cabinetry
- Maple – Hard North American maple wood has a smooth grain perfect for painted cabinetry. Opt for a durable satin, semi-gloss or high-gloss finish.
- Oak – Red or white oak has an attractive visible wood grain. Use a clear polyurethane for protection.
- Thermofoil – A budget-friendly option, this heat-fused laminate bonded to medium density fiberboard (MDF) resists fading, chipping and scratches.
- Laminate – Affordable and versatile. The plastic laminate cover bonded over a plywood or MDF substrate is another tough choice.
Other Surfaces
- Butcher block – An end-grain wooden surface adds warmth and is naturally antimicrobial. Use a protective sealant and avoid cutting directly on the surface.
- Stainless steel – Hygienic, dent-resistant and heat-proof. Conceal scratches with a brushed finish.
- Glass tile – Gorgeous option for an interior curve or accent band. Use textured glass for traction.
- Metal – Brass, copper and nickel offer shiny complementary accents. Opt for uncoated metals that patina gracefully.
What’s the Best Layout?
A few common curved island layouts can help maximize function:
Two-Tier
Great for large kitchens, this design has a lower level for prep work and an elevated bar-height section for seating. The staggered heights provide both stand-up working room and sit-down gathering space.
Prep Zone + Landing Zone
Have one length of the island serve as a landing area for setting down groceries, mail and personal belongings when entering from attached garage or mudroom. The rest of the surface accommodates cooking prep.
Working Curve + Dining Curve
Design one curve of the island for food preparation while the other side features bar-type seating for quick meals. Open shelving above the dining section can provide glassware storage.
Working Curve + Storage Curve
Devise one side for food prep and equip the other side with cabinets and deep drawers to maximize kitchen storage. Consider open shelves above for often-used serveware.
How to Make a Small Island Feel Bigger
While a curved island maximizes space efficiency, if your kitchen demands a smaller footprint you can still provide the illusion of expansiveness:
- Opt for a airy, open interior design. For example, suspended glass shelving opens up the interior visual space.
- Light colors reflect light and lend an airier aesthetic. Go for soft whites, light woods or a pastel color palette.
- Include multidimensional details like floating shelves, textural tile inlays or antiqued mirrored glass.
- Incorporate glass doors or open shelving containing decorative dishware to draw the eye inward.
- Introduce visual symmetry and repetition. For example, arched cabinet cutouts instantly expand the presence.
- Keep the surrounding space minimalist. Too many additional visual elements will overwhelm the area and make the island feel cramped.
Smart Storage Solutions
Take full advantage of all the interior storage potential an island base offers. Consider these storage ideas:
Use Every Inch
- Incorporate pull-out shelves for spices, oils and other flavor staples you reach for regularly.
- Install vertical racks for cooking tools like cutting boards, cookie sheets and roasting pans.
- Designate an area for small appliances like a coffee station or blender zone to get them off the counter.
- Include full extension drawers for optimal accessibility to contents all the way at the back.
Maximize Corners
- Use blind corner pull-outs to access difficult triangular spaces.
- Add spinning “lazy Susan”s to effectively use where cabinet doors meet at 90-degree angles.
Get Organized
- Dedicate drawers or pull-outs for cooking utensils, pot lids, food storage containers, foil/plastic wrap, cleaning supplies, dishtowels, etc.
- Consider roll-out trays, divided cutlery inserts, pan organizers and other specialty storage items to keep the interior orderly.
Enhance Accessibility
- Make sure drawers and pull-outs fully extend to back wall so contents don’t get lost in dark rear corners.
- Use full extension glide hardware and drawer slides for easy accessibility.
- Include pull-out trays and tilt-out bins for easily grabbing items in back.
Include Waste Management
- Use recycling bins and compost caddies to manage kitchen waste station.
- Add integrated or roll-out trash pull-outs for garbage, composting and recycling.
Creative Curved Island Ideas
A curved island provides the perfect opportunity to get creative. Draw inspiration from these innovative ideas:
Dramatic Color Scheme
Make a bold statement by using contrasting colors on the island exterior and interior. For instance, try a moody blue-grey on the outer base cabinets, and vibrant orange for the interior shelving.
Two-Tone Design
Pick one finish for the island countertop and a different look for the base cabinets and drawer fronts. This helps delineate the separate elements. For example, combine white quartz countertops with wooden cabinet fronts.
Eclectic Mix of Materials
Get inventive by paneling the island with an assortment of complementary finishes. Try pairing a marble countertop with metallic accents, wood panels, glass tile insets, woven rattan drawers and antiqued brass hardware.
Curved Banquette
Integrate a curved banquette seamlessly flowing out from the island base. Upholster the sitting area in a comfortable fabric and use C-shaped floating shelves above to complete the built-in look.
Sculptural Lighting
Install artistic pendant lighting that mimics and enhances the shape of the island. Try spherical bulbs suspended at different levels over a circular island. Or futuristic elongated LED fixtures above an oval shape.
Glass Display
Illuminate and exhibit pretty dishware, glassware or decorative objects inside the bottom cabinetry. Glass doors or open shelving lined with LED lights transform the pieces into a functional display.
FAQs About Curved Kitchen Islands
Still have some uncertainties about incorporating this non-traditional island shape? Here are answers to some frequently asked questions:
Is a curved island more expensive?
The customized non-rectangular shape may cost 10-15% more than a standard straight-edged island. Extra carpentry work involved coupled with the increase in surface area drives up the price. However, the additional storage capacity and design esthetic may balance out the cost.
Does it take up more space in the kitchen?
An oval or round island generally has a larger footprint than a similarly sized square or rectangular island. The curved edges extend the dimensions. However, the more efficient use of space often compensates by recapturing otherwise potentially unused dead areas in corners.
Are they more difficult to clean?
The rounded edges eliminate hard-to-reach tight corners that can collect grime. This actually makes a curved island easier to clean than a traditional rectilinear design. The smooth uniform curves allow you to wipe the surface uninterrupted.
Does a round design limit seating?
A circular island limits seating to a quarter or third of the perimeter, since you need to allow walking room for access. However oval and rounded rectangular islands can accommodate seating along two sides similar to a regular straight island.
Do you lose storage space?
While the curved front of drawers and doors may marginally decrease capacity, the expanded interior island space often makes up for it. Taking advantage of all vertical real estate and selecting storage-maximizing inserts helps optimize the capacity.
Is a curved island hard to install?
The customized shape makes installation a bit more complex than standard cabinetry. The island must be precisely measured and fabricated to fit your exact kitchen layout. Hiring an experienced kitchen contractor is advisable to ensure proper