Both island benches and breakfast bars are popular kitchen design elements that provide additional countertop space and seating in an open floorplan kitchen. However, there are some key differences between the two:
What is an Island Bench?
An island bench is a freestanding unit that sits in the middle of the kitchen, completely separate from the other counters and cabinets. Island benches are typically large, ranging anywhere from 4-10 feet long. They provide ample extra prep space and storage in the kitchen.
Island benches can come in a variety of shapes – from rectangular to circular – and sizes to fit any kitchen layout. They often feature decorative legs or cabinets on the sides that match the rest of the kitchen cabinetry.
Some key characteristics of an island bench include:
- Freestanding unit – not connected to other counters or walls
- Provides extra prep space and storage
- Large size – typically 4-10 feet long
- Can be rectangular, circular, or customized shape
- Often features decorative legs or side cabinets
Island benches are great for adding extra seating at mealtimes. Many feature an overhang or open space on one side to accommodate bar stools. This allows the island to function as a casual dining space or breakfast bar while also providing work area when needed.
What is a Breakfast Bar?
A breakfast bar is defined as a partial-width counter that is connected to a kitchen wall or full-sized island. Breakfast bars stick out from the main kitchen counter, forming an L-shape or small peninsula. They are much smaller than a typical kitchen island.
The key characteristics of a breakfast bar include:
- Attached on one side to main kitchen counter or island
- Smaller size – typically 2-4 feet long
- Sticks out like a peninsula
- Provides seating space for 1-2 bar stools
- Does not offer as much workspace or storage as an island
Breakfast bars are ideal for small kitchens that do not have room for a full island bench. They can make use of unused space near a wall or corner to create a mini eat-in area with a couple bar stools. While they do not offer as much workspace as an island, they can still provide some extra counter room for serving food or doing light prep.
Key Differences
While island benches and breakfast bars serve similar purposes, there are some notable differences between the two:
| Island Bench | Breakfast Bar |
|---|---|
| Freestanding unit, not connected to other counters | Attached on one side to main counter or island |
| Large size, typically 4-10 feet long | Small size, typically 2-4 feet long |
| Provides ample prep space and storage | Does not offer as much workspace or storage |
| Can accommodate multiple bar stools | Space for 1-2 bar stools |
| Accommodates dining and entertaining | Better for casual meals and snacks |
In summary, the main differences are:
- Island benches are larger, freestanding units while breakfast bars are smaller and attached to existing counters
- Island benches offer much more prep space, storage, and seating capacity compared to breakfast bars
- Island benches can accommodate dining and entertaining; breakfast bars work better for quick casual meals
Benefits of an Island Bench
Island benches offer several benefits for an open concept kitchen:
- Extra workspace – The large surface area provides plenty of space for food prep, serving dishes, baking, and more. Multiple people can work comfortably.
- More storage – Base cabinets and shelves offer abundant storage for pots, pans, and pantry items. Keep everything within reach.
- Kitchen efficiency – The extra counters allow different tasks to be spread out, improving workflow.
- Casual dining space – Island seating creates a comfortable spot for quick meals or snacking.
- Entertaining – An island can serve as a buffet for large gatherings or a space for guests to mingle in an open floorplan.
Island benches are ideal for those who regularly cook large meals and entertain guests. The ample worksurface and seating make it a multifunctional fixture.
Benefits of a Breakfast Bar
Breakfast bars also offer advantages for smaller kitchens:
- Space saver – Only sticks out slightly from the counter, allowing it to fit in compact kitchens.
- Casual seating – One or two barstools allow for a spot to eat casual meals.
- Extra surface area – The extended countertop provides a bit more space for serving or doing light prep.
- Defined eating area – Creates a dedicated spot for quick breakfasts or snacks away from other kitchen work zones.
Breakfast bars are great for tenants, first-time homeowners, and those with smaller kitchens. They provide a mini eating nook without taking up much space.
Deciding What’s Right for Your Kitchen
So how do you decide between installing an island bench versus a breakfast bar? Here are some factors to consider:
- Kitchen dimensions – Measure layout and check if there’s room for a sizable island. Breakfast bars work better for compact spaces.
- Existing layout – Look for unused areas along counters or walls that could accommodate a breakfast bar.
- Work habits – Those who cook frequently or entertain will benefit more from an island bench.
- Seating needs – Island benches allow 3-4 barstools, while breakfast bars realistically fit 1-2 stools.
- Budget – Islands are more expensive. Breakfast bars are cheaper to install.
Also consider your lifestyle and entertaining habits. Frequent hosts may want an island even in a modest kitchen, while singles or couples may not need that much space. Involve a kitchen designer early in the process to explore different options.
Island Bench Design Tips
If you determine an island bench is the right choice for your kitchen, keep these design recommendations in mind:
- Allow for at least 4 feet of clearance around all sides of the island to allow traffic flow.
- Include electrical outlets to power appliances and lighting.
- Incorporate ample storage with lower cabinets and drawers.
- Select durable countertop materials like granite, quartz, or butcher block.
- Include plumbing and sink if needed.
- Accommodate overhang for seating on one side.
- Match the island style to your overall kitchen decor – traditional, modern, etc.
Getting the island design right requires carefully planning the dimensions, layout, counter height, and seating area. Work closely with your kitchen designer so it both functions well and gives you the style you want.
Breakfast Bar Design Tips
Here are some tips for successfully incorporating a breakfast bar:
- Standard overhang size is 10-14 inches from the main counter.
- Allow at least 24-30 inches of clearance between bar stools and surrounding cabinets or counters.
- Try angling the shape for an L-shaped or U-shaped kitchen layout.
- Use matching countertop materials and bar stools that coordinate with the overall kitchen.
- Incorporate electrical outlets to power stool lighting or devices.
- Consider two-level seating with lower chairs for children.
- Use a rail or modesty panel beneath overhang for stool support.
When designing your breakfast bar, focus on finding the right balance between size, shape, and seating to make the space both useful and inviting.
Cost Comparison
Island benches typically cost significantly more than breakfast bars. The exact price will vary based on size, materials, and features included. However, on average:
- A kitchen island bench ranges from $2,000-$5,000 installed.
- A breakfast bar averages just $500-$2,000 installed.
Islands require more materials, square footage, electrical and possibly plumbing components. Breakfast bars use the existing counter and simply add a small overhang.
However, breakfast bars only make sense if you already have unused space to fill. Island benches can be placed nearly anywhere in an open floorplan to create a new functional area.
Conclusion
Island benches and breakfast bars both provide extra seating and surfaces in a kitchen. The main considerations are available space, budget, and how heavily you cook or entertain. Island benches offer abundant prep room and storage best suited for avid cooks and hosts. Breakfast bars are more compact and better for small kitchens that want a casual dining spot. Carefully assess your needs and kitchen layout to decide which option works best.
With good design either can become a cherished spot for morning coffee, quick meals, food prep, or entertaining friends. A kitchen designer can help weigh the pros and cons of each and develop the optimal plan to get the most functionality out of your available space.