Getting the Right Measurement Between Your Island and Main Bench is crucial to creating a functional kitchen
When designing a kitchen, there are countless decisions to make—from choosing cabinetry finishes to selecting the perfect appliances. But there’s one critical design element that often gets overlooked, and it can make or break the functionality of your space: the distance between your island bench and the main bench.
This simple measurement is what separates a kitchen that just looks good from one that works effortlessly in daily life. After all, your kitchen isn’t just for show—it’s the heart of your home, a place where meals are prepped, conversations flow, and memories are made. Getting the layout right is key to ensuring that your kitchen not only looks stunning but is also practical and enjoyable to use.
Why This Measurement Matters
Think about how you move through your kitchen when cooking. You open the oven, pop something in the dishwasher, or pull out the bin—all while needing enough room to manoeuvre comfortably. If your island bench is too close to the main bench, these everyday tasks become cramped and frustrating.
Leaving the right amount of space between the island and main bench allows you to:
Open appliances fully without blocking movement.
Have multiple people working in the kitchen at once without feeling crowded.
Maintain a smooth flow and ensure that cooking remains stress-free.
In short, the right spacing ensures your kitchen functions seamlessly—no more awkward shuffling or bumping into things when trying to cook or clean.
The Design Rule You Need to Know
There’s a general guideline that designers follow to determine this critical measurement. The ideal clearance between the island bench and the main bench is 1200mm (1.2 meters). This provides enough space to open appliances, walk through the kitchen, and have multiple people working without feeling cramped.
In some cases, you might not have enough room to allow for the full 1.2m gap. In these instances, a clearance of 1m to 1.1m will still work well. If space permits, increasing the gap slightly beyond 1.2m can enhance comfort, but try not to exceed 1.5m—anything more can reduce efficiency. The key is to maintain functionality and ensure the kitchen works smoothly, even during busy moments.
Final Thoughts
Designing a kitchen isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about creating a space that makes your daily life easier and more enjoyable. By getting the spacing right between your island and main bench, you can avoid common layout frustrations and ensure your kitchen feels both functional and inviting.
Whether you’re planning a new build or renovating your existing kitchen, keeping these measurements in mind will help you design a space that not only looks incredible but works beautifully for years to come. Happy designing, and remember—a well-designed kitchen is the true heart of a home!
Happy Designing!
Sam x
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