Should I choose a kitchen island or a kitchen table? This is the expert advice that helped me decide

As a kitchen editor, I'm always on the pulse of what's hot and what's not. And recently, the traditional kitchen table has been making waves, offering a more sociable way to create an island.

But sometimes, being in the know makes it hard to choose the best features for my kitchen – and I'm left unsure whether a kitchen island or a kitchen table is the best choice for my space. Classic kitchen island ideas provide storage and additional prep space, but a kitchen table feels classic and creates the perfect place to dine and host.

I'm indecisive about which option is best for my kitchen and how I use it. So, I've turned to the experts who make these decisions every day, to help me choose between these two equally stylish options. Here's everything they told me.

Reasons to choose a kitchen island over a kitchen table

The idea of a large island at the heart of the kitchen has become the epitome of luxury design for many people. Not only does it look visually appealing, but it adds functional storage and prep space, as well as the option of more informal seating arrangements.

'An island offers storage within the kitchen and additional function rather than just seating. Stools can be tucked away under the island when not in use, whereas with a table, the chairs don't always tuck away and it's at a lower height than the island,' says Jayne Everett, creative designer at Naked Kitchens.

A kitchen island is a better choice if cooking is the biggest priority for you. An island creates more kitchen countertop space and opens opportunities for more functional layouts. Your dishwasher, kitchen sink, and even an oven can be integrated to maximize space and functionality, which you don't have as much flexibility with if you choose a kitchen table.

There's also a multifunctional element to a kitchen island that makes it all the more desirable. 'We all love an island – they just make a kitchen more sociable and create areas for seating, prepping, or simply hanging out,' says Helen Parker, creative director at deVOL Kitchens.

But it's not just the kitchen itself to consider when choosing between a kitchen island and a kitchen table. Jayne points out that you have to factor in the other rooms of your home.

'It really depends on whether there is a separate dining room. If so then we always love incorporating an island or peninsula into a design. Great use of space and always a joy to perch on an island with a well-deserved coffee,' she adds.

Reasons to choose a kitchen table over a kitchen island

A table in the center of your kitchen is a truly traditional choice – not so long ago it was the common kitchen layout in homes big and small. Nowadays, the kitchen table is more synonymous with country kitchen ideas with that more classic look.

But it's a kitchen feature that's making a comeback, as homeowners are looking for ways to create a characterful space that prioritizes socializing and quality time. 'A kitchen table is great for entertaining or gathering around with family or friends. For a larger household, a table works really well,' says Jayne.

The biggest draw of a kitchen table over a kitchen island is that it creates a space for a more intimate, social dining space. Instead of the quick, casual design of island seating, a table encourages you to sit down with friends and family and take your time eating and enjoying time together. It's about connection rather than function.

'To work out what works best in a kitchen, it is essential to understand how the space is going to be used. If this is the sole area for dining and entertaining rather than a separate dining room, it is a good idea to integrate a table into the design,' says Jane.

'Space may be an issue here so a good way may be to have bench or banquette seating which is a good space saver. Seating on an island is great, however, it's more for casual seating rather than family or entertaining,' she suggests.

It's also worth noting that a kitchen table is still a functional choice. While it might sit lower than countertop height, it can still be used as prep space for preparing food, baking, and teaching little ones basic cooking skills. Yes, there's no storage space, but it has plenty of other benefits that make a difference to everyday life.

There's also a lack of permanency to a kitchen table, which is favorable for many people as their lives and needs change. It can be moved easily and there are even fold-up options if you want to bring out the table if and when it's needed. It's a luxury you don't get with a built-in island.

Reasons to choose both

In some kitchen ideas, you can enjoy the best of both worlds with an island and a table. This will of course be entirely dependent on the space you have available, but including an island and a table means you benefit from the benefits of both designs.

'Where space allows, it's a great option to incorporate both an island and table in the kitchen design. The island can act as a delineator for the busy working kitchen area, good to keep the table outside this,' says Jayne.

If you have a large or open-plan kitchen, this can be a great way to maximize space and bring in beautiful furniture pieces. The island can serve as the multifunctional hub of the cooking space, while a table forms the zone of dining and socializing.

This is the approach taken in The Loft Kitchen by deVOL, pictured above, which had plenty of space to accommodate an island and a table. 'The room is spacious and allowed us to fit in a wonderfully useful vintage prep table island near the window,' explains Helen.

'There was also a perfect spot to incorporate our round Vineyard Table and two pretty old antique chairs, adding to the vintage feel and making the room really practical not just for cooking, but living and dining too,' she adds.

There are no rules on what makes the best kitchen. An island and a table have benefits and drawbacks – it depends entirely on how you use your space and what requirements you have for your kitchen.

For me, a kitchen island feels like a better fit – I need that extra storage and I love the idea of being able to prep meals on an island while my friends keep me company with a glass of wine. I also don't host huge numbers of people, so a table would probably go unused most of the time.

But I can see the appeal of a kitchen table, especially for family gatherings and as a child-friendly option. The traditional kitchen style is truly timeless and a great solution in households with no dedicated dining room. Two great designs – so take the time to really think about which will make the biggest diffrence to your kitchen.