Thinking about a kitchen design with island layout? An island remains the most requested feature in kitchen renovations Perth-wide because it adds prep space, storage, casual dining and a focal point. This guide walks you through island sizing, clearances, services, materials and costs—tailored to WA homes and building standards. You’ll also find kitchen island design ideas, small kitchen plans with island tips, a practical checklist and FAQs so you can plan with confidence.
What is an island kitchen layout?
An island kitchen layout places a freestanding benchtop unit—your “island”—in the centre or off-centre of the room. It can include storage, appliances, seating or a sink/cooktop and connects beautifully with open‑plan living. You’ll see it paired with galley kitchen runs, an L-shaped kitchen, or even a U-shaped kitchen when space permits. Islands can be tailored for different functionality or aesthetic advantages. See Kitchen designs Perth.
Core design insights for Australian homes
Island sizes and clearances
- Typical bench height in Australia: 900–920 mm (adjust to user height).
- Ideal circulation clearance: 1000–1200 mm around the island; 900 mm is a common minimum in compact spaces.
- Seating: allow 600 mm width per stool and 300 mm overhang for knees (consider discreet supports for longer spans).
- Common island sizes: from 1800 x 900 mm for smaller rooms to 3000 x 1100+ mm for large homes.
- Appliance access: factor 1200 mm behind seated diners for safe pathway when stools are occupied.
Services, safety and compliance
Placing a sink, dishwasher or cooktop on your island requires planning for plumbing, waste and power. Always use licensed trades.
- Electrical: General power outlets and appliance wiring must comply with AS/NZS 3000. Use an RCD-protected circuit and consider an appliance garage for neat charging.
- Gas: If choosing a gas cooktop (or switching to induction cooktop), confirm ventilation and clearances. Gas work must comply with AS/NZS 5601 by a licensed gasfitter.
- Ventilation: Downdraft systems suit island cooktops; otherwise consider a ceiling cassette with adequate capture area and ducting to atmosphere.
- Seating safety: keep cooking zones at least 300–400 mm away from seating edges or add a raised ledge to protect diners.
For renovation guidance, refer to reputable Australian bodies such as the Housing Industry Association (HIA), Master Builders WA, and WA’s Building and Energy.
Work triangle vs zones
Islands shine when you create zones: a prep zone with an undermount sink and bin on one side, a cooking zone with landing space either side of the cooktop, and a cleanup zone with dishwasher and drying area. Add task lighting and power where each zone lives.
Our renovation & design process
Joyce Kitchens designs and manufactures custom cabinetry WA-wide, with an experienced team delivering kitchen, bathroom, laundry, and wardrobe solutions.
- Consultation — In-home or showroom meeting to discuss needs, budgets and style (e.g., shaker kitchen, coastal, contemporary).
- Measure & 3D design — We model clearances, seating, storage (pantry pull‑outs, soft-close drawers), and services.
- Selections — Benchtops (porcelain, laminate, solid surface), cabinetry finishes (melamine, vinyl wrap, 2‑pack), handleless cabinets or classic profiles, splashback and hardware.
- Manufacture — Premium materials and hardware (e.g., Blum) built to fit your home.
- Installation & project management — Licensed trades for plumbing/electrical, site protection, and quality assurance.
- Aftercare — Guidance on cleaning, maintenance and warranty.
Materials and finishes
Benchtops for island durability
From family-friendly laminates to ultra‑resilient porcelain, your benchtop sets the tone and function. Due to Australia’s 2024 national ban on traditional high‑silica engineered stone, many Perth homeowners now choose porcelain benchtops (sintered stone/ultra‑compact) or premium laminates for the island.
Benchtop comparison: Porcelain/Sintered vs Laminate
| Feature | Porcelain / Sintered Stone | Laminate Benchtops |
|---|---|---|
| Heat & UV resistance | Excellent; ideal for WA heat and sunlit spaces | Good UV; avoid placing hot pots directly |
| Scratch & stain resistance | High scratch and stain resistance | Good everyday durability; use boards and wipe spills |
| Seams & thickness | Large slabs, slim profiles possible (e.g., 12 mm) | Standard thickness; edge treatments mimic stone |
| Cost range (supply & install) | $$$–$$$$ (premium) | $–$$ (budget to mid) |
| Look & feel | Stone, concrete, marble looks with matte finishes | Vast colours; cost-effective style updates |
| Maintenance | Low; non-porous, easy to clean | Very low; gentle cleaners only |
Note: If you’re considering an engineered stone benchtop, speak with our team about current regulations and compliant alternatives for WA homes.
Cabinetry and storage
- Finishes: durable melamine, textured laminates, 2‑pack paint, timber veneer.
- Storage: deep soft-close drawers, waste sorting near prep, pantry pull-outs, integrated bins, appliance garage to hide small appliances.
- Appliances: consider an integrated fridge for a seamless look.
- Lighting: dimmable pendant lighting over seating, LED task lighting under benches or toe‑kick lighting for night paths.
Popular layouts and styles with an island
Small kitchen plans with island
Yes, compact kitchens can still have an island. Try:
- A 1600–1800 x 800–900 mm island with two stools on the short side.
- Moveable or furniture‑style islands to keep clearances flexible.
- Induction cooktop for slimmer ventilation and improved safety.
- 600 mm appliances sized for Australian kitchens; 900 mm freestanding cookers fit larger spaces.
Galley + island
A parallel island adds landing space opposite your main run, ideal for prep and plating. Keep at least 1000 mm walkway each side.
L-shaped kitchen + island
Great balance of storage and social connection. Consider a butler’s pantry or scullery if you entertain often.
U-shaped kitchen + island
Best in larger rooms. The island can house seating and drawers while the U handles appliances and heavy storage.
Design styles
- Shaker kitchen: framed doors, classic handles, farmhouse sink on the island, subway splashback.
- Contemporary: handleless cabinets, slim porcelain top with a waterfall edge, integrated appliances.
- Coastal/Hamptons: light palettes, V‑groove panels, pendant trios over the island.
Perth and WA cost guide
- Cosmetic refresh (retain layout): $18,000–$30,000+
- Mid-range renovation (new cabinetry, quality benchtop, new appliances): $30,000–$55,000+
- Premium kitchen (custom features, porcelain island, integrated appliances): $55,000–$100,000+
- Island allowance: typically $3,000–$12,000 depending on size, materials, and services (sink/cooktop).
Costs vary by site access, plumbing relocation, electrical upgrades for induction, and ventilation. We’ll provide a fixed, itemised proposal after design.
WA case-style examples
- South Perth refurbishment — A compact 1990s apartment gained a 1700 x 900 mm furniture-style island with laminate top, soft-close drawers and a slim overhang for two stools. The result: better prep space and breakfast seating without crowding the living area.
- Iluka family home — We replaced a tired peninsula with a 2900 x 1100 mm porcelain island featuring an undermount sink, integrated bins and toe‑kick lighting. The open‑plan living zone now works for homework, entertaining and weekend baking.
Island kitchen planning checklist
- Confirm your priority: seating, prep, storage, sink or cooktop?
- Measure room and mark clearances of 1000–1200 mm around the island.
- Choose appliance strategy: induction vs gas cooktop; size of oven and fridge.
- Decide on benchtop: porcelain/sintered, laminate, or solid surface; consider WA heat and sun.
- Allocate power points (charging, mixers) and consider an appliance garage.
- Plan lighting: pendants (on dimmers) plus task and ambient lighting.
- Storage details: deep drawers, tray dividers, pantry pull‑outs, recycling.
- Edge profile and overhang supports for longer spans or waterfall edge.
- Book licensed trades early; ensure compliance with AS/NZS electrical and gas standards.
- Get a detailed quote and timeline; allow for lead times on slabs and hardware.
Ready to explore kitchen designs with island—or need tailored kitchen ideas with island? Contact Joyce Kitchens for a design consultation and see samples in our Perth showroom.
FAQ
What is the ideal island size and clearance in an Australian kitchen?
Common island sizes start at about 1800 x 900 mm. Aim for 1000–1200 mm clearance around the island (900 mm minimum in tight rooms) and allow 600 mm stool width with a 300 mm overhang for seating.
Can I fit an island in a small kitchen?
Often yes. Try a 1600–1800 x 800–900 mm island, a movable unit, or a slim prep island without seating. Keep clearances to 900–1000 mm and choose compact 600 mm appliances to save space.
Is a cooktop or sink better on the island?
For families, a sink with prep space is practical and social. Cooktops on islands need careful ventilation and safety edges from seating. Choose based on your cooking habits and what keeps the work zones efficient.
Which benchtop is best for a family kitchen island in Perth?
Porcelain/sintered stone suits WA heat and UV with great scratch resistance. Quality laminates are budget-friendly and durable. Discuss current engineered stone regulations and alternatives with your designer.
How long does a kitchen renovation with an island take?
After design sign-off, manufacture and installation typically take 4–8 weeks, depending on materials, trades scheduling and whether services (plumbing/electrical) are being relocated.