See what size kitchen island fits your space. Enter the open floor area and the aisle clearance you want to keep around it.
Max Island Size
— in. (W x D)
Largest island that keeps your clearance.Usage Tip
Tape the island footprint on the floor and live with it for a day — walk the aisles and open every door. It is the cheapest way to catch a too-tight layout.
THE MATH
Max island width = Kitchen width − 2 × clearance
Max island depth = Kitchen depth − 2 × clearance
Useful island ≥ about 40″ wide × 24″ deep
Max island depth = Kitchen depth − 2 × clearance
Useful island ≥ about 40″ wide × 24″ deep
Clearance is the walkway around the island. NKBA recommends at least 42″ for a single cook and 48″ where two people work or in front of appliances that open; 36″ is the absolute minimum walkway.
Open width and depth are the clear floor area the island sits in, measured between the surrounding cabinets or walls.
Open width and depth are the clear floor area the island sits in, measured between the surrounding cabinets or walls.
About 48″ is the practical maximum depth for a two-sided island — beyond that you cannot reach the middle to clean or use it.
Leave wider clearance (48″) in front of the range, dishwasher, and refrigerator so doors open and people pass.
Add 12″ or more of counter overhang for seating, and confirm the floor and any island plumbing or wiring before building.
Leave wider clearance (48″) in front of the range, dishwasher, and refrigerator so doors open and people pass.
Add 12″ or more of counter overhang for seating, and confirm the floor and any island plumbing or wiring before building.