Is there any way to incorporate curves into a single-level island? Single-level surfaces are much more functional than bi-level surfaces.

With a single surface, you have all that space to spread out for large projects such as cooking, baking, crafts, homework/science fairs, wrapping gifts, etc. This wide-open expanse of workspace is one of the biggest advantages of an island (or peninsula).

Bi-level surfaces break up that wonderful expanse. In fact, a raised level usually creeps into and steals some of the workspace on the lower level. This is b/c you need "support" and an inch or two of overhang into the lower level...losing you a couple of inches of depth...those inches can sometimes have a big impact.

Are you a "form over function" person...meaning how your kitchen looks is more important than how it functions? Or are you a function-first and then work in the "form"? [Neither answer is "right" or "wrong"...just what's right for you and your family.]

You should be aware that the vast majority of architects are "form over function". To be honest, it's a rare architect that can design a truly functional kitchen. They're good at designing "architectural interest", but usually not so good at designing a functional kitchen. A good architect will be aware of his/her lack and employ a good kitchen designer.

Have you considered a piano-shaped island?

Here's one that I did a few years ago. The trompe l'oeil panels added a fun element to a very traditional kitchen. The curved counter is walnut and the lower is granite.

kaysd,

I highly recommend checking out the website Houzz, it's incredible inspiring!!!!

http://www.houzz.com/

Buehl, I originally planned for a large single-level island, as I agree it is more practical for cooking and homework projects. Our kitchen will be a 15' deep by 14' wide U open facing West to the dining and living rooms. There is a 3' wide doorway in the North side of the U, near the base, that opens into the hallway leading to the kids' rooms and the garage. My original idea was an 8' x 4' single-level rectangular island (running E-W, perpendicular to the dining table), with storage all along the South and East sides, and overhang for seating for 4 on the West and North sides. The seats on the North side would have a view of the water for both guests and cooks to enjoy (I like to be seated for part of my prep work).

The 2-level island was the architect's idea. I like the idea of having curves, but on one level. I don't think I have ever seen a piano shaped island. I would like to leave 42-48" aisles on each side of the island, so I can't go too wide. (Because of cabinetry, the floor space of the kitchen is about 12' wide.)

As for form versus function, I have to admit that form is very important to us. The kitchen will be fully visible from our entertaining areas, and we want to enjoy being in the space when we are cooking. My inspiration kitchens are larger than the 210 sq ft we have to work with, and I am struggling to incorporate all the appliances we want and adequate storage and work space into an attractive design. I like the look of the round and oval islands used in the Smallbone kitchens, but worry they are not big enough for storage, appliances (cooktop, microwave and/or wine fridge may have to fit in island), counter top work space and seating.

Boxer and Paintergirl, thank you for posting those pictures! It really helps to see designs others have used. I'm really grooving on elements of the Hillside, CA and Callerton Broxburn kitchens. I have the feeling that going with a fancy shape rather than a rectangle is really going to drive up cabinet and granite costs.

Cr8joy, I have logged many hours of drooling at Houzz.com.

We created a curvy island by having the granite cut into a curved shape. We used regular cabinets. Maybe you could create the look you desire by having the granite cut in the shape you're looking for.