Deck The Hills

Clear-stained maple panel island with Caesarstone                                                            countertop, cabinets and entertainment sink.  I Am An Island A kitchen remodel may or may not include an island counter depending on a number of factors:  You, the homeowner, must desire one to begin with.  Some people do not like the idea of an island in the midst of their floor space. For those of you who do, the next consideration is the amount of floor space your kitchen has.  The island must have a 3' 6" radius of free space from the edges out to be up to code.  Maneuverability and safety are key here. Once an island counter has been included in your plans, the details come into play.  What will the countertop material be?  What kind of wood will be used for the under-cabinets?  Do you want a bar sink, full sink, or neither in the countertop?  If so, what kind of plumbing fixtures do you want for the sink?  Do you want a configuration of the island that allows for bar stools or chairs to go underneath?  How about a bookshelf for your recipe books? Much design goes into an island, but the standard treatment is usually to harmonize it with the rest of the new kitchen.  The countertops and cabinets match the ones chosen for the walls and counters around the perimeter.  If you have Corian counters, you will most likely select the same Corian for the island.  If the wall-mounted cabinets are maple, then the island cabinets should be maple as well.  Continuity brings the elements together to make a pleasing overall impression.