Clapham, London

Create a kitchen islandIf your kitchen feels too open to surrounding rooms – for instance, if you’re trying to cook and guests or family members keep coming in and getting in the way – investing in an island could be right for you.An island forms a barrier that keeps people on one side and the chef on the other. It also visually denotes the separation of spaces. Bar stools will further highlight the boundary point, but also consider placing a small beverage fridge on the outer side or end to let guests grab a drink without needing to come to the main fridge and potentially get in the cook’s way. For a less permanent option, consider an island on lockable casters, allowing you to push the piece out of the way to create a more open feel as needed.