Not so long ago, two-tier islands were a common style element in kitchens. This type of kitchen island would play a huge role in separating the kitchen space and creating a divide from the rest of the house.
While it was a huge trend to have two-tier kitchen islands in all contemporary kitchens a few years back, trends have changed. As new styles arrived, people started to leave the islands behind. Now that you see other styles in the homes of your friends and relatives, you may be wondering whether two-tier kitchen islands are still in style.
The simple answer to your question is that they are not out of style. In fact, two-tier kitchen islands are still a vital part of contemporary kitchens. Not to mention, you will also find this type of island in many luxury houses as well. Two-tier kitchen islands give more counter space, along with better and improved privacy. Not to mention, it always looks good during any time of the year.
Before we go further into the discussion, let’s first see what two-tier kitchen islands are.
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Contents
What are Two-tier Kitchen Islands?
Constructed just like standard kitchen islands, two-tier kitchen islands comprise a bar-height countertop with an additional level. The second level often serves the purpose of a dining table in most homes.
Typically, the traditional tier is attached to the outer edge of the island at a bar height of 42 inches. The second level table is a bit lower, at the height of 36 inches.
Two-tier Kitchen Islands are commonly a part of open-plan settings, which require a separating element. It can easily separate other areas of your home from the kitchen while also optimizing space.
Two-tier Kitchen Islands- Are They Out of Style?
It is true that a two-tier kitchen island is not as trendy nowadays as they were when it first came out. However, functional items like this never go out of style.
As with all types of home installations, the perspective of the chooser makes a huge difference. Not to mention, there are also certain factors that are important to take into consideration.
Talking about style, the layout and interior setting of your home is an important factors. Recently, homeowners are starting to prefer open areas more than closed ones. This adds a lighter, casual vibe to the space as opposed to closing walls and less foot space.
As a result, people choose to create fewer partitions, and it becomes the reason two-tier islands fallout in popularity. Two-tier kitchen islands divide a space while the bar height makes them appear bulkier. This can give your kitchen plenty of open space along with a congested look and vibe.
So if you’re looking for a clean design with a minimalist setting, a two-tier kitchen island may not be for you. Installing this type of island can interrupt the visual flow of your kitchen. Not to mention, the installation can also cost more than a traditional kitchen island.
However, from a functional standpoint, the two-tier kitchen island can be a good choice depending on your specific requirements. For instance, the two counter levels allow you to use one for meal prep, while the other one can be used by your family for having casual meals.
Additionally, a two-tier kitchen island can also be useful for separating your eating space from the kitchen space. Furthermore, this type of island is also an ideal choice for you if you entertain guests often and don’t want them to see the mess on your kitchen counter.
Instead of relying on trends, it is best to make a decision based on your specific kitchen design and requirements.
Two-tier Kitchen Islands- Designs
Two-tier kitchen islands come in a variety of design options. The design of an island can very well affect the visual appeal and general function of your kitchen.
Modern
Originally, the design of two-tier kitchen islands was specific to old-world and traditional kitchen settings. However, they can also smoothly fit in modern kitchens if you choose and employ contemporary-style materials. Unlike the standard two-tier kitchen islands, newer ones have fewer decorative molds and curves.
Raised Bar
A two-tier kitchen island with raised bar is the most common type. Typically, the first level counter is raised to a bar height for the purpose of entertainment.
This setting allows homeowners to perform their kitchen tasks while also socializing with family or guests at the bar. For instance, your children can sit by at the bar table while you prepare a meal.
But, it also offers functionality when it comes to handling the mess in your kitchen. Any mess on the lower island will remain there, and no one from will be able to see it either.
With Seating
For most two-tier kitchen islands, seating is just part of the design itself.
You can add a bar-height countertop (the most common one) or even a dining-height one. The latter will allow you to add some seats that your family and guests can use for casual meals. This way, you can make the most of your Kitchen Island and space.
Raised with Built-In Table
Most modern homes do not offer a lot of floor space, making it important to use tactics that can help optimize the floor area. In fact, this is the reason why two-tier kitchen islands gained popularity in the first place.
The two-tier kitchen island comes with built-in tables, so you can also connect your kitchen island counter with your dining area (table and chairs). On the other hand, the dining-height bar serves as a good breakfast and snacking table as well.
Final Thoughts
When two-tiered kitchen islands first came, they instantly became popular in most homes. With time, however, their popularity decreased as manufacturers started coming forth with new styles. While it may seem like two-tier kitchen islands are out of style, it depends on the specific requirements of your kitchen space. Not to mention, the design also makes a huge difference.