If you’ve been scrolling through TikTok or Instagram lately, you’ll know that TV personality Jamie Laing’s recent kitchen renovation has stirred up quite the debate. His sleek, contemporary kitchen island featuring an oven has divided opinions—but here at Eastaway Property, we see both sides of the conversation clearly.
We recently shared our expert insights with Ideal Home Magazine about whether incorporating an oven into your kitchen island is a practical move or merely a trendy design choice. Spoiler alert: it can be both!
The Heart of the Home
Kitchen islands have quickly become a staple in modern layouts, particularly in open-plan living spaces. When done right, they can transform your kitchen from simply functional to fabulously social. Having an oven integrated into your island can enhance the way you cook and entertain, letting you be part of the action rather than stuck facing a wall.
As our Managing Director, Kimbly Mackman, told Ideal Home:
“From an estate agent’s point of view, it’s certainly not unusual—and when done well, it can become a real feature in the room. It’s practical, social, and helps create a space that feels connected, especially when the person cooking wants to be part of what’s happening in the rest of the home.”
Things to Consider Before Taking the Leap
But while placing an oven in your island can look sleek and stylish, it’s important to weigh up the practicality, especially in smaller spaces. Here are a few factors to keep in mind:
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Space & Functionality:
If your kitchen is compact, an island oven might limit your workspace and storage options. You need enough clearance to safely open oven doors, pull out hot trays, and comfortably move around. Kimbly pointed out:“An oven needs enough clearance to open the door safely, room to pull out hot trays, and enough workspace around it to make it practical. If the island is already quite compact, adding an oven can make the space feel tight and reduce your prep area. In those cases, a wall-mounted oven in a tall unit often makes more sense.”
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Storage:
Remember, installing an oven takes away potential cupboard space underneath your island. If storage is tight, it might not be the ideal solution.
Making the Right Decision
Ultimately, whether you choose to follow Jamie Laing’s stylish lead or stick to a more traditional kitchen layout depends entirely on how you use your space and your lifestyle priorities.
At Eastaway Property, we firmly believe your kitchen should reflect you—your style, your needs, your life. A thoughtfully planned kitchen can significantly boost the desirability of your home, making it not only a joy to live in but also a valuable asset when it comes time to sell.
Curious about Jamie Laing’s kitchen island journey or want more expert opinions? Check out the full article at Ideal Home.
Need more personalised advice on kitchen design choices that can add value to your home? Reach out to the team here at Eastaway Property—we’re always happy to help!
