Customisation Options For Your Kitchen Island Benchtop
Kitchen islands help you to correct any deficiencies in your kitchen, adding counter space or seating areas as needed. Additionally, they provide extra design opportunities. Here are some ways to customise your island benchtop.
Add Additional Bench Space
A prime advantage of this furniture item is the additional bench surface they provide, allowing you to spread out various vegetables and ingredients when cooking a complicated recipe or meal. One way to maximise the benefit is to extend the counter a few extra centimetres than standard beyond the cupboards. Doing this will preserve floor space while subtly increasing your work area. For additional functionality, particularly when entertaining, you can install a hinged end section that you can lift up or fold down as required.
Increase Visual Contrast
A kitchen island is just that; it sits in the middle of the open space — just like an island in the sea. Because of its central position, this piece of furniture often provides the focal point of the kitchen. Take advantage of this by installing a beautiful stone bench that contrasts with the perimeter counters to enhance visual interest. You could also stretch your budget further by reserving the more expensive substance for the main show and using a more economical option for the sideshow. When selecting colours, consider light and shade. Install a pale counter against dark cabinets or vice versa for extra contrast.
Provide Seating
There's no need for cooking and preparing food to be a lonely task. By adding a seating area to the island and placing comfortable stools around it, you'll invite friends and family to join in the fun. This works well for a peninsula bench that encloses the kitchen area — with the seating positioned in the bordering living space.
Choose Your Favourite Material
Natural stone or wood provide popular options for kitchen benchtops. Stone comes in a vast array of colours and patterns and brings an organic aesthetic into the kitchen. Depending on the particular stone you choose, you'll need to reseal it regularly, but once you've taken care of this task, a stone benchtop will typically last a lifetime. Timber similarly needs sealing or oiling, and weathers attractively over time. Other benchtop material options include sturdy stainless steel and concrete that you can colour and texture in limitless ways. Embedding coloured glass and stones within the concrete will create a beautiful jewelled effect. With concrete, make sure to seal it regularly to keep it looking its best.
To learn more about kitchen benchtops, consult a resource in your area.