The Benefits of a Kitchen Peninsula: A Smart Alternative to an Island
When it comes to home renovation, it’s important to keep in mind that no matter what type of home you’re living in, there are always more possibilities available to you than what you first may think. Half of the fun and excitement when you decide to renovate your kitchen is finding creative ways to achieve your design dreams within the restrictions of your home’s square footage. That being said, having a smaller amount of space to work with doesn’t mean you have to cut yourself short on the amenities you’ve been wanting to add to your home. With the mindset, it’s safe to say that anything is possible.
One of the most sought after features in any given kitchen is an island. Whether you prefer a centrally located island or a mobile feature that can be moved from place to place, a kitchen island is a highly desired kitchen feature—and for good reason! Perfect for extra storage and ultimately, more counter space to work with, an island delivers the benefit of space without taking up the entire kitchen and even adds to the room’s aesthetic appeal.
While it’s a beloved kitchen feature, it’s not always possible to fit an entire island in a small kitchen. That’s where the peninsula concept comes into play. Offering up the same benefits but with altered dimensions to fit your kitchen, there are a number of reasons why a kitchen peninsula may be the way to go in your home.
Great way to section off space
While an island can act as a centralized unit in the kitchen, a peninsula saves you a little space, or perhaps a lot of space and also acts to segment the room that you’re working with. This can be a great design technique as it keeps the kitchen feeling accessible, but visibly creates a fine divide for the cooking versus the socializing aspect of the room.
Design benefits
A peninsula can also be a unique way to add a bar feel to your kitchen if you decide to go ahead and add bar stools as well. This could be particularly fun if you are someone who loves to host gatherings in your home.
Creative Color schemes
A peninsula will save you space in a smaller kitchen but still provide the opportunity to have fun with color. Just like an island, granite countertops can be added to a peninsula and can be complimentary to your other décor, or boldly contrasting! Granite countertops will provide the longevity and durability as well as the aesthetic appeal with an array of natural colors and hues to choose from.
Gain a little space
While it might not seem like a lot, you’ll actually gain a little space on the connected corner of the peninsula. While it’s not a huge amount, it’s definitely significant, especially if you’re someone who hosts or loves to cook. In scenarios like this, you’ll know that every little inch counts when it comes to counter space.
Shelving solutions
Much like with a kitchen island, a peninsula opens up options for extra shelving. You’ll still be able to add shelving and display units to both the front and sides of the peninsula. This not only helps on space saving as well, but allows for a unique way to add color and convenience to your kitchen design. Additionally, this would be a great space to add some complimentary accent pieces to your kitchen. Simply pick a color you love out of your granite countertops and add smaller items to your peninsula shelving that highlight that color in a strategic fashion. It’s a subtle, yet bold way to bring colors together and brighten up your kitchen at the same time. If your peninsula is installed in a darker tone, adding lighter accent pieces to the shelving is a great way to lighten up the overall tone of the kitchen as well.
Creative backsplash incorporation
Because a peninsula connects to a primary kitchen wall, you have the opportunity to do a little creative incorporation. Installing a peninsula means you can add a fun backsplash material or color to your kitchen décor! Finding a creative way to connect peninsula to primary wall has the potential to be an exercise in artistry. Feel free to mix up textures that complement the countertop colors you’ve chosen for your peninsula. For example, copper tiles that are usually found on the ceiling can make a really dynamic backsplash that brings out the best in your peninsula too. If you’re looking for more of a seamless transition, try adding granite tiles to your backsplash that match your peninsula. You’ll create the impression of continuity which can actually make a peninsula look larger than it actually is. Similarly, it allows for your overall décor scheme to remain uncompromised, despite your space restrictions.
