Thinking about a kitchen renovation with an island in Mallorca often evokes both excitement and a touch of apprehension, which is perfectly normal. An island completely transforms how you move around the kitchen: more space for cooking, an area to chat while preparing something, and that extra storage that always comes in handy. It's not just about aesthetics, but also about convenience.
If you're wondering how to do it right, from the minimum dimensions to the most practical layout, this article will help you see things clearly. The idea here is for your kitchen to work the way you like it… Shall we get started?
How much space do you need to install a kitchen island?
When someone thinks about a kitchen renovation with an island in Palma de Mallorca, the first thing to consider is the actual space the room has.
An island is not just a pretty block in the middle, white, black, colorful… You have to be able to move around it without bumping into things, open drawers without fighting with anything, and cook without feeling like you're in a hallway.
Therefore, before falling in love with a particular design, it's a good idea to measure carefully and visualize how you'll move around in your day-to-day life.
The truth is, for an island to truly function, ideally it should have at least between 90 and 110 centimeters of free space around it. Anything less than that starts to feel cramped, especially if two people often cook at the same time or if the kitchen has inward-opening doors. The size of the island itself also plays a role.
The smallest ones can start at around 120 centimeters long, but if you want to integrate a cooktop or sink, you will need more depth and more work surface.
Types of kitchen islands and which one is best for your home
Choosing the right island isn't just about aesthetics. It's not simply a matter of putting a pretty block in the middle and calling it a day. Each island serves a different purpose, and if you choose it well, it can completely change how you move around the kitchen. It's really worth considering your habits: how much you cook, whether you like to have breakfast there, whether you need storage, or whether you'd prefer to integrate a cooktop or sink.
Incidentally, in many kitchens, the hidden renovations make all the difference. Things you can't see, like installing new electrical outlets, relocating the plumbing, or improving ventilation, are what allow the island to truly function.
Let's now look at the two most common and practical models.
Cooking island
A kitchen island with a cooktop is ideal if you like to cook without having your back to anyone. It transforms the kitchen into a much more social space.
Keep in mind, however, that it requires careful planning, as you'll need to install a suitable range hood or a discreet extraction system that won't be a nuisance. Here, the invisible renovations are key: running electricity to the island, providing extra outlets, and ensuring proper ventilation.
It's a perfect option for those who cook often and want to have everything at hand without losing workspace on the main countertop.
Island for sink
An island with a sink is usually very practical in kitchens where many dishes are washed or where cooking is done daily. It really does offer a lot of convenience because it centralizes cleaning, food preparation, and storage in one place.
However, invisible renovations also come into play here: moving the plumbing, installing a good drain, and making space for the dishwasher if you want to integrate it.
This option works very well if you are looking for a more fluid kitchen, where tasks are distributed naturally without the need to go back and forth throughout the room.
decorative island or just for storage
It's the simplest and most versatile option. You don't need to move any fixtures or do any complicated construction, so it's ideal if you're looking to improve your kitchen without getting into major hassles.
These islands provide extra storage, a food preparation area, and, if you wish, a small breakfast nook. They are perfect for kitchens where space is limited or where major renovations aren't practical.
How to install an island with a cooktop or sink
Installing an island with a cooktop or sink requires some skill. It's not just a matter of placing a pretty piece of furniture in the middle and calling it a day. When the island includes a cooktop or sink, the installations must be perfect to prevent noise, leaks, or odors.
The key is to plan each phase carefully before lifting a single tile. It's the kind of job where the renovations make all the difference, even if no one sees them.
The step-by-step process, when done correctly, usually follows this line:
- First, you have to measure and mark the exact space where the island will go to avoid mobility problems around it.
- Plan the necessary connections. These include water, drainage, electricity, and flue, depending on whether it has a hob or sink.
- Install the concealed conduits. To do this, you need to check the slopes, diameters, and location of each outlet.
- Place the furniture and check that everything fits without forcing installations or blocking access points.
- Connect and adjust each technical point. And remember to check for leaks, water pressure, outlets, and ventilation.
- Final touches, such as sealing, leveling and checking functionality before closing the project.
Recommended materials for a kitchen island
Choosing the right materials for your island is almost as important as the design. A pretty countertop will last for a while, but a durable one will last for years without any problems. Ideally, you should look for materials that can withstand daily wear and tear without losing their charm.
Quartz is a safe bet if you want something durable and easy to clean.
Porcelain also works wonderfully when you're looking for resistance to heat or impacts.
For the structure, most kitchens opt for water-resistant board furniture, which withstands humidity much better.
If the island includes a cooktop or sink, it's advisable to reinforce the interior and choose quality hardware to prevent looseness over time. From an aesthetic standpoint, lacquered woods or neutral tones work beautifully if you're aiming for a modern and inviting kitchen.
At Tecnic Project we are specialists in Kitchen Renovations in Mallorca
Having gotten this far, you'll realize that an island only works when it's designed for your lifestyle, not just for a pretty picture. Every kitchen has its own dimensions, its own quirks, and that particular way it's used every day.
That's why, in Tecnic Project, we always look for solutions in kitchen renovations in Mallorca, kitchens that truly fit each home, without promising miracles or complicating things more than necessary. Kitchens to be enjoyed from the first coffee of the morning to the last impromptu dinner.
If you want to know if your kitchen can accommodate an island without complications, at Tecnic Project we can guide you with a personalized study.
