More Than Just A Statement-Making Design Element

More than just a statement-making design element, an island can serve multiple functions simultaneously within the kitchen space, writes Guinevere Davies

- Guinevere Davies

Kitchen islands offer endless functionality and adaptability, making them a staple of contemporary home life. A kitchen island can provide prep, cooking and storage space not to mention a central point for socialising all in one unique design. Looking ahead, the kitchen island holds the promise of even greater innovation.

THE NEW CLASSIC

Far from a novelty, the kitchen island has evolved to become a staple of contemporary home living and shows no signs of disappearing anytime soon. Says Charlene le Roux from Easylife Kitchens, “South Africans are social by nature and the kitchen is the hub of the home. Families come together around the island for meals, schoolwork, and entertainment. Most new builds are designed with an open-plan floor layout and the island has become an integral part of kitchen design as a result.”

THE EVOLUTION CONTINUES

Philip Richards from blu_line adds, “I believe the kitchen island is going to continue to develop as the core element of modern kitchen design. The reason is that the very concept of an ‘island’ - meaning a space you can move around - is that it is not then limited to its applications, design aesthetics or materials. The modern island is therefore a crucial design element that we are investing a lot of time and energy into, to create a dynamic piece of furniture that serves and adapts to the demands of modern living.”