An island that earns its place

Write down what the island needs to do: food preparation, washing up, cooking, homework or seating. Decide which activities happen at the same time. Share this with your kitchen designer so appliance positions and circulation can be considered together.

Mark stool positions, opening doors and the main walking routes on a scale plan. Ask the designer to check clearances for your household and the chosen appliances. Do not rely on a photograph of a different kitchen to judge how much space you will have.

Ask the fabricator for the usable dimensions of the selected slab and the proposed cutting layout. A catalogue’s nominal slab size is not the same as an agreed finished island size. Edge work, natural features and fabrication allowances can affect the result.

If you favour natural movement, explore quartzite or granite and approve the actual slab. For a repeatable design family, compare the chosen quartz or porcelain product at full scale.

The support design belongs with the fabricator and kitchen installer. It depends on the material, thickness, openings and intended overhang. Ask for the approved arrangement in writing before the cabinets or supporting structure are finalised.

Waterfall ends need their own discussion about joints, pattern direction, floor levels and fixing. An attractive continuous appearance is a design intention to confirm, not an automatic result of adding a vertical panel.

Explain the route from unloading to the final position, including doorways, staircases, tight corners and floor changes. Ask who assesses access and whether any specialist handling is needed. Confirm associated charges before ordering.

• Provide the island plan and appliance positions.
• Identify the sides visible from adjoining rooms.
• Specify any waterfall ends, seating and sockets.
• Ask where joints would be needed if one piece is not feasible.

The cost guide explains why island size and slab use can change the price considerably.