The kitchen island has become the single most important design decision in many new layouts. As open-plan living has grown, so has the ambition behind island design, moving well beyond the standard rectangle.

curved and organic forms

Curved islands soften a room’s geometry and improve flow, particularly in open-plan spaces where the island needs to work as a walkway as well as a workspace. They also tend to encourage more sociable use, with rounded ends naturally inviting seating.

waterfall edges

A waterfall edge, where the worktop material continues down the sides of the island to the floor, creates a strong, sculptural focal point. It works particularly well with natural stone or a bold engineered surface from our worktop range.

mixed-material islands

Rather than matching the island to the rest of the cabinetry, many of our clients now choose a contrasting material or colour for the island alone, whether that’s a dark timber base against light perimeter units, or a bold lacquer finish from next125.

islands with integrated appliances

Induction hobs with built-in extraction, such as those from Bora, allow an island to remain visually clean while still functioning as the main cooking zone, an increasingly popular request in our design consultations.

getting the proportions right

An eye-catching island still needs to work practically. Our designers assess clearance space, traffic flow and seating before finalising any island shape, which is one of the reasons a proper design consultation matters more than picking a shape from a photograph.

frequently asked questions

How much space do I need around an island?

As a general guide, at least 1,000 to 1,200mm of clearance is recommended on all sides to allow for comfortable movement and cabinet or appliance doors opening.

Are curved islands more expensive than straight ones?

Curved forms typically involve more complex joinery and worktop fabrication, so they usually carry a premium over a straight island of the same size.

Can I fit a hob and sink on the same island?

Yes, though we’ll always plan the layout carefully to keep a comfortable working zone between wet and cooking areas.

What’s the best material for a waterfall edge?

Natural stone and solid surface materials both wrap well for a waterfall edge, giving a seamless, continuous appearance.

Do statement islands suit smaller kitchens?

A scaled-down statement island can still work in a smaller space, our designers will help you find proportions that suit the room rather than overwhelm it.