Why Interior Designer Annette Frommer Loves Kitchen Islands

Nowadays, it’s everyone’s dream to have a kitchen island. It makes the kitchen look sophisticated and expensive, and definitely leaves an impression on guests. So, are these the reasons why kitchen islands are so coveted? Or are there other reasons as well?

According to interior designer Annette Frommer, kitchen islands are an extremely functional feature that provide many functions. “I adore kitchen islands. There are so many advantages to having them, that most often than not I tend to use them in my designs”.

Following are some advantages that according to Annette Frommer make using kitchen islands worthwhile.

1. “Kitchen counters generally face walls, but kitchen islands enable the kitchen cook to face an open space. Not only does a kitchen island add extra sitting space, but it contributes to an informal atmosphere that is congenial and fun. Friends or family can sit around the island, you can chat, laugh etc. It’s never lonely cooking or preparing food on an island”.

A gorgeous white kitchen with a kitchen island and stools that add a pop of color. Friends can sit around while a sumptuous meal is being prepared on the cooktop.



Photo: Elad Gonen

2. “There is never enough kitchen storage in most homes! A kitchen island, depending on how small or large the base is, can offer a large amount of storage. Additional drawers, cabinets, open shelves – can be life savers, and help in avoiding a cluttered kitchen”.

An elegant island with a large base for a vast amount of storage. The white countertop complements the wood; the blue stools provide color. an overall stunning space where the island is a major contributor to the whole look.



Photo: Elad Gonen

3. "A kitchen island can also be used for appliances – whether a sink or a cooktop. And nowadays, there are state of the art venting systems that can pop up and go down on your counter top”.

4. “A kitchen island can act as a decorative focal point in a space. You can use another color for the island base, or countertop, as well as other materials. You can use spectacular bar stools that add style and character. Pendant lights over a kitchen island not only provide focused lighting but can be beautiful thus enhancing the overall beauty of the space”.

Spectacular island with statement stools and pendant lighting,



Photo: Oded Smadar

5. “When reselling your property, since everyone is absolutely enamored of a kitchen island, you can be sure that having it in your kitchen will only increase the chances of easily selling your home”.

Frommer notes that there are however two basic constraints when you cannot have a kitchen island. One is cost – a kitchen island will increase the cost of any kitchen design or remodel. Two - lack of space. You need to have space to make a kitchen island advantageous (note a minimum of 95 cm is necessary around the island for walkway); otherwise it will only contribute to untidiness of the space. If you are not constricted by these then a kitchen island is definitely the way to go!