Decide what the island needs to do
Write down its main jobs: preparation, washing up, cooking, sitting, serving or storage. An island that contains a hob has a different brief from one used mainly for family meals. Think about the working area left around a sink or appliance, not just the total dimensions.
Mark where people sit and where drawers, doors and appliances open. Walk through the layout with your designer. Ask how the island relates to the rest of the kitchen so the most attractive position also works for everyday movement.
Agree support and seating details
A seating overhang needs a support design appropriate to the material, thickness and geometry. Ask us to specify the arrangement. Avoid copying a dimension from another kitchen without confirming that it applies to your selected product.
Show brackets or supports on the drawing and ask how they affect legroom and the cabinet finish. If you want an apparently thin edge or a deeper built-up edge, discuss it alongside those supports. The edge guide explains which details to ask to see.
Think through slab layout and waterfall ends
Ask whether your island can be produced from the selected slab size and whether a joint is proposed. Include the route into the property when discussing the largest practical piece. A slab fitting the design on paper does not settle delivery or handling.
Waterfall ends add visible faces and further fabrication. Review the proposed pattern direction, corners and connection to the floor. Our joint and pattern guide helps turn a visual idea into a clear discussion before cutting.
Send a brief that includes the whole island
Include approximate length and depth, intended seating, sink or hob model, sockets and any end panels. Describe stairs, narrow turns or other access constraints. Do not finalise fabrication dimensions yourself; these need professional verification.
For the initial material decision, compare granite, quartz, porcelain and marble. Ask us to confirm suitability and explain the complete cost of the finished island.