3 Basic Walkway Clearances According To Kitchen Island Layout

A kitchen island is a staple in a modern kitchen. Apart from using it for prepping food and cleaning dishes, many homeowners also turn their island into a breakfast bar. In such a situation, proper seating is critical. But it’s even more important to ensure proper clearances for seating so it doesn’t interfere with everyday activities. To help out, NIMA Kitchen & Bath Centre lays out 3 standard clearances/rules for a smoothly functioning modern kitchen.

 

Determining Walkway Clearances According To Seating

 

No Walkway Behind The Seating

 

If there is no walkway behind the kitchen island seating, leave a minimum clearance of 32 inches between the edge of the island countertop to the back wall or obstruction. This allows guests to slide the seating back comfortably. It also ensures the seating space isn’t too cramped.

 

Edge Past Walkway Behind The Seating

 

If there is no big walkway, but space is required behind the seating to allow someone to edge past, leave a minimum clearance of 36 inches, as recommended by the NKBA. This will allow you to get by a seated dinner guest without taking up a lot of space for a walkway.

 

Regular Walkway Behind The Seating

 

Lastly, to create a comfortable walkway behind the kitchen island seating, leave a space of at least 44 inches between the edge of the table/countertop to the back wall or obstruction. You can breeze past your seated guests with this much clearance without a hitch. 

Therefore, when designing a modern kitchen space with a prominent island, make sure to keep these clearances in mind, as layout problems become a challenge to address later on. For more tips on creating custom modern kitchens with a perfect, functional layout, reach out to us at Nima Kitchens & Bath today. With decades of experience in designing luxurious kitchens in Vaughan and surrounding areas, our experts will help you realize the kitchen of your dreams.