Should a kitchen island be the same height as countertops?

As you’re starting your renovation, all kinds of questions may come up. Often with renovations, you don’t know all the answers until you get started.

One question you might stumble across is: Should a kitchen island be the same height as countertops?

In most kitchens, the kitchen island is the same height as other countertops. The standard height for kitchen counters is 36”. But you don’t have to design your kitchen in this way. If it’s more comfortable for you to use a shorter or taller countertop, you should do it.

Also, keep in mind that custom countertop heights may affect prospective buyers’ opinions of your home.

One of the most common reasons to change your counter height is your height. Tall people may be more comfortable with a taller counter, and shorter people may be more comfortable with a shorter counter.

Counters shorter than 36” are also practical if you have a lot of large appliances. Maybe a slicer, coffee maker, or blender. If you bake often or work with dough, you might consider a 32” counter. This gives you room to fully extend your arms so it’s easier to knead dough efficiently. Depending on your height, you might want a slightly shorter or taller counter.

ADA compliant counters may be shorter to accommodate people with disabilities. If you use a wheelchair, you’ll want to make sure you can maneuver and function in your kitchen with relative ease.

Some kitchen islands have a tiered countertop, where the shorter section is for the kitchen range, sink, or other features.

Typically, with tiered islands, the taller section is for seating. It can be uncomfortable to seat people on an island that is too short. It’s not pleasant to have to bend over or reach when eating.

If you want to seat people at your island, make sure you get appropriately sized stools. You’ll want about 10” to 12” between the seat and the island itself. So for a 30” island, you’ll want 18” chairs. If you have a taller island, around 42”, 30” bar stools will work great. Taller islands are more comfortable for seating.

Why does kitchen island height matter?

Your kitchen is probably one of the most high-traffic areas in your home. The right kitchen island height can make cooking comfortable and easy. Whereas the wrong one can make cooking a real chore! 

If you’re seating guests at your island, it’s important to get the height accurate. Standard kitchen islands are 36”, but you can adjust the height a couple of inches depending on your personal preference.

What is the correct height for a kitchen island?

The standard height for kitchen islands is 36”. If you want to seat people, consider a 42” island. If you are shorter or taller than average, consider adjusting the height of your kitchen island.

Can a kitchen island be lower than counters?

Yes, but it’s standard for your kitchen island and counters to be the same height. If you’re shorter than average or more comfortable with a low counter, go for it. Certain activities like kneading dough are easier with a lower counter that allows you to extend your arms fully.

Counter Height vs. Bar Height

The standard height for a kitchen bar is 42” with 30” stools. The lower section of the counter is typically 36”. This is often where the kitchen range or sink is. If not, it’s a great space for preparing food.

Here’s an example of a tiered kitchen island.

Hopefully we helped move your remodel forward. For most homeowners, the standard island height of 36” is great. Another modern option is to build a tiered island. The section for guests is 42” the section for cooking and preparing food is 36”.

We hope you find a design that you love. Good luck with your project!

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