A kitchen island is a great way to add additional space and storage to your kitchen. From the location to the actual island itself, all aspects of the job should be well thought out prior to beginning the renovation. Without planning, you could end up with an island that doesn’t fit your space correctly or isn’t providing the functionality that you had wished for. An island also becomes a focal point in the kitchen so make sure you plan ahead and understand the process of installation. This will ensure that nothing is missed and you are left with your dream island that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
The process of installing a kitchen island varies depending on the decisions you make about your island. If you are completing a full kitchen renovation, the island will be integrated into the space according to the other design specs. If you are installing an island in an existing kitchen, you may have to make some additional changes to the space, move appliances and reconfigure in order to accommodate the island.
Custom vs. Pre-made Island
When deciding if you want a custom or pre-made island you should think about what the overall purpose of this island is for your space. If you are just looking for additional storage and space, there are plenty of pre-made islands that can suit your needs. Perhaps you are looking for a little more, like adding appliances and electrical to the island, then you should consider a custom island. If cost is a factor in your decision, choosing a pre-made island is a better choice as custom islands tend to be more expensive.
Factors to Consider
Space and Location
One of the first things you should think about before choosing an island is the space and location it’s going to go in. When choosing the size and location of your island, leaving a minimum of three feet between the island and any adjacent wall or cabinet is a good default to start with. If the space is larger, then leaving larger gaps is okay too. For the placement of the island, as a rule of thumb, it is suggested that you keep the sink, fridge, and stovetop within four to nine feet of one another. This helps to keep the flow of main activity zones practical.
Function
Next to consider is the function of your island. By now you should have the size determined, allowing you to understand what you have to work with in terms of storage within the island, as well as if you are planning on adding any additional appliances. These decisions should be based on your desired function of your finished island. Using the island strictly for additional storage will mean ensuring there are lots of cabinets and shelves. If you are planning on using the island as an additional workspace or dining, such as preparing, cooking, and enjoying meals, ensure that the placement of new appliances is in the plans.
Style and Design
Once the size, location, and functionality of the island is determined, if you are getting a custom island, you will need to pick out all the design specs. This is an important part of the process as the island will become the main attraction in your kitchen. As you will be seeing the island every day, ensure that all of your designs are what you want, but also something that matches your existing space. Islands are a great way to complete the flow of your space, so tying in other designs from surrounding areas within the kitchen will make it look like it was always there.
Below are the average costs of Kitchen Planning & Renovation services across different cities in Canada:
| City | Average | Minimum | Maximum |
| Calgary | $14,539 | $100 | $50,000 |
| Edmonton | $15,181 | $100 | $50,000 |
| Hamilton | $20,005 | $200 | $50,000 |
| Oshawa | $23,931 | $1,700 | $45,000 |
| Ottawa | $20,816 | $400 | $50,000 |
| Toronto | $13,483 | $100 | $50,000 |
| Vancouver | $11,342 | $250 | $50,000 |
*Costs based on 1533 verified Canadian homeowner reviews as of March 2022
Once you have finalized the layout of your new kitchen, it is best to hire a pro to complete the installation of the island. During the installation, if appliances are being included, plumbing will have to be relocated or new plumbing will have to be installed, in addition to electrical, which is best handled by a licensed pro to maximize safety and prevent any issues and additional costs in the future. When you’re ready to get started, simply click on the banner below to get in touch with local kitchen renovation companies in your area who can install a kitchen island for you.
Article updated June 2022.
