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Design

The round approach

A circular island with a diameter of between 6 ft. and 7ft. creates a satisfying
geometry. People seem to like it because we associate a circle with a sense
of completeness. This basic pattern can accommodate from two to six
dedicated work areas. The sense of easy circulation is unparalleled. The
shape encourages two people to use the island at the same so eye contact
and sociability make it a double pleasure to use. The only disadvantage is
that the shape causes the work area to fall away quickly. This can be
addressed by making the diameter at least 7ft.

An unusual design for reparation and cooking

The idiosyncratic geometry of the keyhole-shaped island makes more sense
than it would first appear. The straight section can be comfortably aligned with
a sink cabinet or other wall-based cabinetry so that they work in parallel,
leaving the circular end piece (or drum as we often call it) to provide an "easy-
to-approach" and friendly prep areas that can be used by at least two people
at once. While standing at this end piece you have clear sight lines the full
length of the island. Because you can use drum at any point you have eye
contact with your partner in cooking. You are thus encouraged to treat the
prepping as non competitive, a 'join-in' or pleasurable activity. During quiet
moments when no one is using the island, the nature of the shape allows for
easy circulation and sends a message of relaxed sensuality.

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Additional photos and out-takes from the article

Picking the photos for a magazine article is an exercise in compromise. Does a close-up shot best describe the article'
lessons, or is the reader better served with a photo taken from farther back, so that the entire room can be appreciated?
The Web gives us a chance to have it both ways. With that in mind, we present here the uncropped photos and the
out-takes from the three projects that illustrate Johnny's article.

Maximum utlilty, modest size (p. 91)

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Soft on both sides (p. 93)

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Restaurant-style island (pp. 94-95)

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Johnny Grey (www.johnnygrey.com) is a kitchen designer with studios in England and San Francisco. He has written
and lectured widely on kitchen design.
From Fine Homebuilding 183 October 1, 2006

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