Helpful Tips for Incorporating Seating Into a Kitchen Island

An island is one of the most versatile spaces in a kitchen. Not only can it be used to help with organization and cooking, but it can also serve as an extra area for eating and entertaining company. But in order for the latter to take place, you’ll need the right set of seats to go with your island.

Things to Consider

Before you decide on any barstools or chairs to pair with your kitchen island, here are a few things to keep in mind during the selection process:

Counter Height

One of the most important things to keep in mind while choosing the perfect seats to go with your kitchen island is the height of the countertops on the island. This should dictate how tall or short your seats should be. Pairing shorter stools with a tall island can make it difficult for guests to enjoy their meals. Conversely, the combination of taller stools and a shorter island can result in guests feeling uncomfortable and even pain if their knees hit the counter.

It’s also worth noting that it’s not uncommon for kitchen islands to have multiple counter heights. In these instances, choosing seats that are either adjustable in height or are available in various heights are generally the best solution.

The Number of Seats

Determining the ideal number of seats to place at your kitchen island is crucial. Having too little seating can be inconvenient, causing individuals to stand or find seating elsewhere, while too many seats can lead to people feeling crammed and can create a logjam in your kitchen space. A great rule of thumb to follow is having an available chair for each member of your family, that way everyone in the household can enjoy the space at the same time.

The Arrangement of the Seats

Finding the optimal seating configuration around a kitchen island is a critical concept that is often overlooked. Ideally, you want to avoid organizing your seating in a straight line, as this arrangement makes it difficult for people to interact properly. When possible, you’ll want an arrangement where seats are situated across from each other or, at minimum, at an angle. This setup makes for a more enjoyable experience for everyone at the kitchen island.

Need Extra Help?

Figuring out the best way to incorporate seating into your kitchen island—or designing a kitchen in general—can be quite the challenge. Luckily, homeowners in the greater Phoenix, Arizona, area can turn to Legacy Design Build Remodeling for all of their kitchen remodeling needs. Contact us today to learn how we can help you attain your dream kitchen or to schedule a free in-home consultation.