Kitchen Islands Top Tips from Inglish Design — The Kitchen Specialists in North Yorkshire

A well-designed kitchen island can completely transform the way you cook, entertain, and live in your home. At Inglish Design, we create beautifully crafted, handmade kitchens across North Yorkshire, and one feature our clients consistently love is a thoughtfully planned kitchen island.

Whether you’re dreaming of extra workspace, a sociable seating area, or clever built-in storage, here are our top tips for designing the perfect kitchen island.

Top Tip Number  1. Define the Purpose of Your Island

Before thinking about finishes or layout, decide what your island needs to do for you. It should provide the wow factor  but must also be functional.

Popular uses include:

• Additional prep space

• A cooking zone with a hob

• A washing-up area with an integrated sink

• Casual dining and breakfast seating

• Hidden storage or integrated appliances

• Power sockets – add some for laptops, chargers or worktop appliances.
• Serving and entertainment space how will you use your island ?

A clear purpose will guide all other design decisions.

Top Tip Number 2. Allow for Comfortable Circulation Space

To keep your kitchen ergonomic and enjoyable to use, aim for at least 1 metre of clearance around each side of your island. This ensures drawers can fully open, appliances are easy to access, and multiple people can move around comfortably. Don’t just think of a big rectangular block – an island it can be any shape you want !

• Consider the best shape of the island to suit the space
• Do you want seating – is this best on the end or along the side
• Do you want curves ?

Top Tip Number 3. Build In Smart Storage

An island is one of the best opportunities to add bespoke storage. At Inglish Design, we tailor cabinetry to suit each client’s lifestyle. Consider:

• Deep pan drawers

• Pull-out recycling bins

• Wine or bottle storage

• Tray and chopping board slots

• Built-in spice drawers

Smart internal organisation means a clutter-free, efficient kitchen.

Top Tip Number 4. Think About Power & Lighting Early

Power outlets are essential for small appliances, charging devices, or working at your island.
Good lighting is equally important—consider layered lighting with:

• Task lights

• Stylish pendants

• Under-counter or plinth lighting for atmosphere

• Drawer lights and internal cabinet lighting

Planning these early avoids costly alterations later.

Top Tip Number 5. Choose a Worktop That Suits Your Lifestyle

From natural stone to quartz and solid timber, your worktop sets the tone for your entire kitchen island. Each material has different strengths, so choose one that complements both your style and the way you cook.

• Consider edge profile – what shape and any projections
• Visit our supplier and choose your slab – natural stone and even man made can vary from one slab to another
• Have a combination of tops for different areas.
• Make sure your chosen material is available in the size you need – as sizes do vary !

Top Tip Number 6. Make Seating Practical & Comfortable

If you’re adding seating, allow around 60cm of width per person. Overhangs should be between 25–30cm for comfortable legroom. Whether you want a sociable breakfast bar or discreet seating tucked away, we’ll help you get the balance right.

• Remember space to stand up and push a chair or bar stool back
• Choose the right bar stool for the island – style and size is key
• We supply bespoke upholstered stools – lots of styles in any fabric !

Top Tip Number 7. Add Design Details That Make It Yours

Your island is a focal point, so it’s the perfect place to express your style. Popular features include:

• Contrasting paint colours

• Decorative end panels or fluted details

• Open shelves for display

• Integrated butcher’s blocks

• Bespoke handles or hardware

At Inglish Design we handcraft every element, ensuring a unique centrepiece.

Ready to Start Your Kitchen Project?

At Inglish Design, we create handcrafted kitchens across North Yorkshire, built around the way you live. If you’re planning a new kitchen or want expert guidance on designing the perfect island, we’d love to help. Visit our Showroom in Knaresborough near Harrogate. We have been manufacturing here since 2007 you can visit our Showroom and see things being made.

Get in touch today to arrange a Design Consultation. 01423 864951 or Email