These bespoke split-level islands are functional, space-saving and great for busy family life. See how these kitchen experts design them…
Split-level, two-tier, step-down or a beautiful breakfast bar – whatever way you decide to divide up your island, it will add functionality to your space. The split-level counter is a great option for separating your working and dining areas, both physically and psychologically. It may be one unit but both surfaces provide different functions. As we are realising now, kitchens are increasingly becoming a space where families want to relax, hang out, do work and homework, as well as cook and eat. This counter allows it all to happen, especially in smaller kitchen spaces where a dining table may not fit. A split-level countertop is especially great for those who enjoy socialising and hosting in the kitchen. These bespoke islands also allow for the interior designer and homeowner to showcase their unique style, expertise in materials and make a statement with their centre structure. See how these kitchen experts have created split-level islands…
HEIGHT WISEÂ
If you want seating around the island but a high counter that demands a stool wouldn’t work for your life – a step-down island is a great idea for incorporating table level chairs. Suddenly, you have a very comfortable dining line, and it is distinguished from the work and preparation surface above. The type of chairs you choose can set different tones for different material counters. These chairs are from Nordic Elements and create that cool, contemporary, Scandi vibe in this room. www.nordicelements.com
DESIGN FEATURE
The practical step-down kitchen island has become a designated design feature in this kitchen. It is a unique addition to the counter which will intrigue guests and the use of same quartzite material looks very streamlined and stylish. www.saracosgrove.com
APARTMENT LIVING
A two-tier kitchen island is a very practical design choice for a smaller kitchen space, like an apartment. The different levels mean you can get different functions out of the one space. This two-tier peninsula is seriously smart and compact. www.saracosgrove.com
BREAKFAST BAR
A breakfast bar is a clever way to break up the island. The use of two different materials for this means that the island’s dual function is made visually clear. You can relax and eat at this oak breakfast bar, but for working and food preparation, the quartzite countertop will do the trick. The open shelving adds another function to this island making it more than ready for busy family life. www.nakedkitchens.com
STYLE AND SUBSTANCE
A family kitchen needs to be functional first and foremost of course – but you may also want it to become a stylish hub of sorts. The aim in the design of this modern kitchen was to strike a balance between bold, contemporary aesthetics and the enduring charm of the Georgian family home. The solid timber breakfast bar with panelling at the back adds a serious sense of elegance to the Silestone countertop. Tip: Ask your provider about the different cleaning supplies for both materials – the aftercare is very important. www.arenakitchens.com
TIERED TABLE
If you have the space, adding a standard-height table to your bespoke island design is a great design choice. In this case, the entire structure has been constructed with Dekton, Pietra Kode to create a minimal, contemporary piece. Kitchen experts and interior designers will often connect a timber surfaced table, to a quartzite countertop for the tiered table look – but any combination of materials can be used. Again, be sure to ask your provider how to take care of each material – inevitably they will require different products. @cosentino.ie
FAMILY STYLE
This worktop or breakfast bar (however you want to use it!) is finished in Corian and solid oak. It is a perfect style for a busy family life, to feed the hungry masses quickly and to have a space for both food preparation and homework, at separate stations but still together. www.bespace.ie
DIY – GET THE LOOK
If you like the split-level look or need the smart use of space and a kitchen renovation isn’t on the cards this year – create the two-tiered island look yourself. Add a table to the end or the side of the island with furniture that matches. It will bring the room together. www.cadesign.ie
COOL APPLIANCES
Built-in wine coolers are trending now, and designers and homeowners alike are making the decision to place them in the kitchen island. It makes the island work even harder and prepares you for any hosting or party planning you may have on your plate. The Siemens low-rise built-in wine cooler has significant storage for wine bottles, with oak shelving so your cooler will elevate the look of the split-level island even further. www.siemens-home.bsh-group.com
