We’re excited to share our favourite kitchen island bench ideas with you! From measurements to design options, this handy guide will help with your island unit.
We understand that a kitchen island bench is more than a spot for food prep -it’s the heart of the home where the daily cooking, homework sessions, casual meals, entertaining, and remote work all take place.
A well-designed kitchen island bench adds substantial value to your property, but more importantly, it adds immeasurable value to your daily life.
With plenty of shapes and sizes to choose from, including both fixed and portable options, there’s something for every kitchen. No matter the size or layout of your space, you can easily add an island bench to your new or existing kitchen. Check out the list below for some basic kitchen island bench ideas to spark your creativity!
Why a Kitchen Island Bench Is the Heart of Modern Kitchens
Kitchen island benches became a popular feature in family homes when open-plan living spaces exploded. The kitchen island bench acts as a central hub, seamlessly connecting the cooking space with the rest of the home. In addition, it also has many other benefits.
Such as providing a practical storage solution. Modern kitchen island benches give you extra storage with drawers, shelves, and hidden spots to keep things tidy and easy to find.
With so many conveniences you should never underestimate the importance of an island bench in your kitchen design.
Smart Kitchen Island Bench Design: Optimising Sink and Stove Placement
Without kitchen design experience it can be easy to overlook the importance of the best placement for your sink and stove. Our tip is to first consider your lifestyle and how you plan to use the space. For example, if you love to entertain, we recommend avoiding a sink in your kitchen island bench design, as it can reduce valuable surface space for both preparation and entertaining. Instead, you can place the sink on the back bench, this ensures that any mess is hidden from view.
On the other hand, if you prefer not to have your back turned to friends and family while cooking or washing up, placing your sink or stove on the kitchen island may be a better option for you.
Tip: For a clean and modern look in your kitchen, consider using an under-mount sink with a removable drainer for your kitchen island. This design saves space, as traditional drainers can take up valuable room. Plus, a removable drainer gives you more flexibility in how you use the area.
If you do opt for a kitchen island bench with sink, we recommend making a statement by choosing fittings that will complement the style of your kitchen. With a massive array of tapware options available, this can take your kitchen island bench design to another level of styling.
Here are our top three must-have sink design elements that you’ll love:
- Gooseneck or Pull-Out Mixer Taps: These practical taps are perfect for tackling those big pots and pans, they also make it super easy to clean every nook and cranny of your sink.
- Brushed Metal Finishes: Satin and brushed finishes are all the rage in kitchen design for 2025. They bring warmth and character to your space, and the best part? They’re great at hiding fingerprints, so your sink always looks pristine.
- Motion Sensor or Touch-Activated Taps: These taps are perfect for those messy cooking moments. With a modern touch, they make your kitchen feel smart and sleek—no need to worry about dirty hands when you can just tap or wave.
Kitchen Island Dimensions: Everything You Need to Know
When it comes to kitchen islands, size matters! It’s important to have an island that fits well in your space, at just the right height for cooking and chatting. Plus, a well-designed island makes it super easy for your family and friends to move around and enjoy the kitchen together.
Here are our top kitchen island measurement tips:
Space Around the Island: Aim for about 900mm of space between your island and walls so everyone can move around comfortably.
Space Between Benches: For a good working area, aim for 1,000mm to 1,200mm between the island and other benches. If you often cook solo, 900mm works too!
Chair/Seat Space: Leave at least 600mm behind stools or chairs. If you want space for people to walk by, 900mm is ideal; 1,100mm offers even more room.
Ideal Bench Height: Most benches are around 900mm high, but 950mm can feel nice if you want extra height. For varying heights in the family, try 920mm. Bar stools fit well at 900mm to 950mm.
Benchtop Thickness: Your benchtop can be thin, like stainless steel, or thicker like 40mm granite.
Island Depth: Keep the island depth between 600mm and 1,200mm. Go deeper if you want to use it for cooking and dining or include appliances.
Sink or Stove in the Island: When placing a sink or stove, keep it at least 300mm from the edge, with 600mm on one side and 450mm on the other for extra space.
If you’re pulling out your tape measure and thinking about how to maximise your small kitchen space, you’re in good company. Many of our clients with cozy kitchens have found that a mobile kitchen island is a fantastic solution. As a mobile kitchen island is moveable they are perfect for small spaces, giving you the benefit of extra counter space without taking up a permanent spot. Making your kitchen more functional and friendly.
Maximise Space: Add Clever Storage to Your Kitchen Island Bench Design
We can’t stress this one enough – a kitchen island bench with storage is a game-changer! No matter how small or large an island bench is, think about what storage options can be included to maximise functionality.
Here are some kitchen benchtop storage ideas:
A smaller butcher’s block island bench can incorporate storage rails or hooks hung on its sides and shelving underneath, for example.
An expansive kitchen island bench could include storage on both sides under the bench, as well as some open shelving at the ends.
From Stools to Chairs: Kitchen Island Seating That Works
When you have guests over, it’s always nice to have a little extra seating. If space allows, consider adding a kitchen island with a cozy bench or a breakfast bar. It’s a fun way to create an inviting spot for entertaining while also giving you some extra working room.
Another kitchen bench design idea is to add a dedicated seating area to one section of the island bench for guests to gather around, keeping it separate from the meal prep area. This can create a special dining area experience.
Stone, Timber, or Laminate? Choosing the Right Island Bench Material
Material is an important consideration for a kitchen island benchtop. This mostly depends on how you plan to use the space.
For food prep, choose a strong material that resists scratches and heat, like stone, concrete, or quality laminate. Timber or marble are also good choices for island benches because they’re strong and can handle scratches from cooking and entertaining.
Top Lighting Styles for Kitchen Island Benches
When planning your kitchen island, think about the lighting you will need for the extra bench space. Consider the main use of the area.
If you will be working or preparing food, choose direct lighting like pendant lights or LED downlights above the island.
For an entertainment space, think about adding ambient lighting and attractive feature lights, such as under-bench LEDs or strip lights. You can also use dimmer switches and smart lighting to balance function and style.
Final Thoughts: Designing the Perfect Kitchen Island Bench
To truly make the most of your kitchen island bench design, we highly recommend adding a power outlet under or integrated on top of, the island benchtop. This gives you easy power access for things like blenders, toasters, air fryers, phone chargers, smart speakers and more.
Modern island bench ideas include using a different colour for the island bench to make it the main feature in a two-toned kitchen. To pull this off, opt for colours that flow, not work against the rest of the space.
You also have the option to mix up your kitchen cabinet colours, to add some texture you could use woodgrain or coloured glass.
Curved island benches are a fun new trend to try, and there are always new materials popping up for kitchen islands.
No matter how you style your kitchen island, there are plenty of options to fit your style and needs, helping you make the most of your space.
Need help planning your kitchen? Our friendly team at Harrington Kitchens is here for you! Call us at 1300 662 112, send us an enquiry online, or visit our showrooms in Narellan or Bowral. We can’t wait to help you create your dream kitchen.
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