For many homeowners their ideal kitchen must have an island.The great thing about kitchen islands is that they can perform so many functions. In fact, a lot of kitchen designers focus on an island when planning out a custom kitchen for their clients. If you plan yours carefully you can jam-pack it with everything you want in your kitchen, or at least the features that are most important to you.

Including a seating area in your kitchen's island is excellent for entertaining and breakfast. Some choose to include a range, increasing the function of their island.	Multi levels provide function and style. A higher counter level provides a barrier from the living space into the kitchen, concealing mess. Sinks and power outlets are also key.

Things to consider when you are planning a kitchen island:

	1. Shape: Determine the shape of your island. The shape should, to a large degree, be dictated by the contour of your kitchen, following the room's basic outline. The more space you can allow for your island the more features you can pack into it.
	2. Clearance: There should be enough room to freely move around all sides of the island. Count on needing between 3'4" and 3 and 1/2 feet of free space.
	3. Function: Decide what features that you'd like to include in your island. For many a seating area with bar stools is a top priority. This is great not only for entertaining, but also for daily stuff like breakfast and for the kids to do their homework. The island becomes the hub for your home life. See the list of functions and features below. Use it to make your own checklist.
	4. Range: You might also consider putting a range in your island. If you go this route you will need a range model with a down draft venting system. The other choice is a island range hood that vents through the ceiling. Do you want to make a dramatic design statement with hood, or do you want to keep the space open?
	5. Sink: Kitchen islands function well with a sink. It can be your main sink or a secondary sink with decorative twist. Combining a sink and dishwasher in your island is functional for easy clean up and keeps your plumbing together. Wouldn't you rather look out into the rest of your home than into a wall?
	6. Multi-level counters: Having a raised level provides the perfect seating area and blocks kitchen messes from clear view. An ergonomic option is to have a lowered counter for chopping and food prep.
	7. Power and Water: Make sure you've thought out your electrical and plumbing needs. Even if you don't have major appliances in your island it is handy to have outlets to plug in blenders, toasters and the like. Dishwashers and sinks will need to have the plumbing planned out in advance, or retrofitted in the case of a remodel. Talk to a plumber and an electrician before you finalize your plans. A good kitchen designer will also know how to arrange all of these details.
	8. Design possibilities abound for islands! You can build them in all different shapes and sizes. They come in many different styles, and can be made with your choice of materials. One option is to make the cabinets or counter top out of a material that contrasts the rest of the kitchen.

Features and Functions you may want to include in your kitchen island :

	Eating Area / Breakfast Bar		Sink / Double Sink
	Stove / Range		Preparation Area
	Oven / Warming drawers		Multi-level Counter
	Microwave		Storage
	Dishwasher		Open shelves
	Freezer Drawers		Recycle Center
	Garbage Compactor		Wine rack / Wine cooler