Kitchen islands are on a lot of people’s wish lists when they decide to remodel their kitchen or are checking out kitchens when looking for a new home. An island brings the activity of the kitchen away from the walls and corners and into the center of things.
On average, a kitchen island costs between $3,000 and $5,000, but a permanent island isn’t always necessary in order to get that functionality in the kitchen. In some cases investing in a kitchen cart is enough to give you functionality similar to a kitchen island.
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With a budget of $100 to $200 you can have a portable space that you can take with you when you move, or move into a different room in your home if necessary. At Angi, formerly known as Angie’s List we can get you in touch with a kitchen contractor that can help you determine just what you need in a kitchen island.
You may want the permanence of an island that flows with the existing vibe of your kitchen or you might want something that gives you more versatility and flexibility like a custom-built kitchen cart or a floating island.
Is a Free Standing Kitchen Island Right For You?
When you thumb through a magazine or watch the big reveal on a remodeling show it is easy to be wowed by the kitchen island in the large custom kitchen. But in between your oohs and ahhs, it is important to really think about whether that setup is going to serve you long term. A kitchen island means more than just extra prep space.
It also can provide you with extra storage, flexible seating, and even extra appliances. Some islands are hooked up to a permanent power supply and need to stay in one place. Others can be released from outlets if they need to be moved.
Deciding Between a Kitchen Cart and a Kitchen Island
While having an island built into your kitchen sounds good on one level, it is important to look at how you live and entertain. Putting in an island is more expensive in most cases, and it may not offer the flexibility you need. Because a kitchen cart is on wheels, it is a great option when you are entertaining. It can be moved beyond the kitchen into the dining area, and even the living room to serve as a makeshift buffet table, a salad or taco bar, or an extra table.
Many carts have drop sides in addition to the extra drawers and cabinet spaces, so it is easy to pull up a couple of extra stools when company comes, and return it to wherever it is most useful when they leave.
For all that kitchen carts offer in terms of flexibility and affordability, the lack of permanence can be a downside as well. With a kitchen island useful tools such as an extra range, a prep sink, or garbage disposal can be included to make cooking more flexible, and more enjoyable. With an island, there is a greater sense that it is part of the kitchen because it matches the other counters and decor.
If you do decide you need an island, you will have a bigger expense. While kitchen carts sell for $100 or so, it can cost between $3,000 and $5,000 to get your kitchen island with all the bells and whistles you desire.
Floating Kitchen Island
If you’re looking for a happy medium between portability and permanence, a floating kitchen island may be the way to go. To be considered “floating” the counters should extend beyond the base level of seating, usually with boosted chairs or stools. The counters stick out beyond where the storage area is and makes this aspect less visible.
Floating islands can be part of the permanent fixture of your kitchen or can be placed on wheels, much like a cart, only a bit bigger. No matter what kind of kitchen island or cart you choose, it is important that it not get in the way of other cupboards and counters used on a daily basis. Hiring a contractor to install your island under your specifications will help assure that your island is an asset to your kitchen and the time you spend there.