Over the months, we’ve profiled several innovative approaches to the ongoing quest to optimize kitchen space: the recent Hidden Kitchen downplayed the space constraints of countertops, cabinets, and appliances with all the sleight of hand of a master magician; the Franke Rail System attempted to obviate the need for sub-countertop storage by lifting pots, pans, et. al. off the floor and onto an elevated track attached to the wall; and the Gorm Flow 2 Kitchen turned the food-prep and wash-up station into a self-sustaining ecosystem.

Soya Kitchen. Designed by Elam.

Now Tisettanta and Elam Design add their two cents to the science of spatial arrangement with Soya. A modern, stream-lined configuration that borrows heavily from a proven notion (the center island), while throwing a notable wrench into the mix (an accessory island), Soya poses an intriguing solution packaged up in a most fetching exterior attire.

The idea behind the double island is a simple, smart division of tasks: “one holds the range and sink, while the other is used for food storage and appliances.” Thus, the accessory island is dedicated to prep, while the main island is dedicated to cooking–very like a commercial kitchen. Soya’s materials palette does the novel arrangement every justice. The 12 cm thick countertop of flamed indian stone–in a soothing shade of blue-gray–is counterpoised by the glass “snack counter” that runs the length of the main island opposite the sink and range. In addition to creating visual interest by emphasizing the impressive horizontal expanse of the beautiful stone, the glass appendage has a specialization of labor effect that keeps the accoutrements of consumption (plates, platters, glasses, and cutlery) separate from the tools of preparation. This is a god-send for obsessive types who can’t stomach the inevitable clutter that accumulates on their beloved and well-organized island, offering, as it does, the prospect for efficient dispensation of comestibles. It’s an attractive feature that reinforces the recent ascendance of the kitchen as social center.

Via Interior News.