What is a Kitchen Island?

A kitchen island is a freestanding countertop that sits in the center of a kitchen, providing additional workspace and storage. In Singaporean homes, where space is often limited, kitchen islands are a popular choice for maximizing kitchen functionality and creating a more open and social layout.

With a shift in lifestyle trends and preferences, kitchen islands are gaining popularity among many homeowners, especially in complement with dry kitchens and pantries. As with anything and everything that goes into a home interior, it is crucial to understand the homeowner’s lifestyle needs. Same goes for kitchen islands. For someone who loves cooking and values interaction, an open-concept kitchen with an island is just the thing.

A kitchen island also works for households where the kitchen is managed by a helper. In such instances, carving out a separate dry kitchen or pantry helps to contain messes within the wet kitchen and keeps them away from direct view.

Molina Hun, design director of Parenthesis Studio offers homeowners some advice and tips for kitchen islands. Regard the kitchen island as a multi-functional space where casual dining or social gatherings can take place. The relaxed nature of the kitchen island space makes it well-suited as a breakfast counter or for relaxing in the evenings over a glass of wine.

Understand the characteristics and properties of the materials that you choose and be aware that for kitchen countertop surfaces that are especially prone to wear, some materials may develop a natural patina or age over time. Opt for materials such as quartz or sintered stone for better durability and easy maintenance.

Kitchen island with storage

For this matrimonial BTO flat belonging to a young couple, the kitchen island was designed with both practicality and aesthetics in mind. It incorporates storage, an expansive worktop suitable for baking and a designated morning coffee area. The kitchen island has become the preferred social hub within the home. Its informality fosters a relaxed and intimate atmosphere where guests can engage in conversations while enjoying food and drinks.

Kitchen island with sink

The kitchen island in this 3-bedroom apartment for a couple and their furry companion also incorporates a coffee corner at one end. The kitchen island is the heart of the home. It is a celebration of the simple pleasures of life, where everyone connects over good food and great coffee.