Two Level Kitchen Counters vrs Giant Slab Island

[Randall55]

My wife and I built a custom, open-floor plan home with a beautiful, one slab island in the center of the kitchen. Much like the ones in most of the newer models. We sold the home and are now living in a smaller home that has a double counter (pony counter) which we love! If we ever build another home, we will not have a large center island because we find them to be a pain. What are your thoughts? Do you like a flat and large center island?

[bcsnave]

I like the one level island

[margaretmattson]

11qMy wife and I built a custom, open-floor plan home with a beautiful, one-slab island in the center of the kitchen. Much like the ones in most of the newer models. We sold the home and are now living in a smaller home that has a double counter (pony counter) which we love! If we ever build another home, we will not have a large center island because we find them to be a pain. What are your thoughts? Do you like a flat and large center island? I have a bilevel (pony) counter. I find it easier to entertain guests because dirty dishes can easily be placed out of the way. I enjoy the additional outlets for crock pots and warmers, and, of course, more above cabinets for storage and easy access. When I am cooking, guests comfortably gather around a mess-free counter. I also find there is more room to maneuver.

Funny, a friend was just remarking about how she regrets buying a newer home with a flat, large center island. She said she is constantly trying to keep it mess free. She especially hates her sink and wishes it was divided because doing dishes is quite a chore. Her countertop is white and she has to worry about stains. She is seriously thinking about remodeling it.

[coffeebean]

I posted my thoughts in a thread I started nearly four years ago. I would like to add one more reason I much prefer the bi-level kitchen counter tops.........

Hubby and I were at a friend's home and several of us were standing around the kitchen counter which was a one level slab type counter. I never realized this but there is no where comfortable to rest an arm on when "bellying up to the bar" because there is no bar. LOL.

Hubby and I have had gatherings at our home and people seem to always gather around the kitchen. Sure enough, folks lean on the end of the second tier of the counter top when conversing. It's just a natural thing to do and makes standing there more comfortable.

Here is the link to the thread I started back in 2019.........
https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/villages-florida-general-discussion-73/kitchen-island-counter-height-vs-bar-height-301027/?highlight=kitchen+counters

[asianthree]

We usually entertain with 30-49 plus people

Pony counter

Positive….One of our homes in TV has a pony, bar height chairs. Entertaining is easy because of 2 levels to place items. One can “hide” stuff, but no matter what it’s still crap on the counter.

Negative…counter takes more room away from living area, so if you want more living space pony is not the way to go.
While entertaining a red wine bottle was misplaced on the top on pony, it fell on lower counter, red wine in food below, plus the stain. Had this happen couple of times.

Large wasted unused space between your appliances and pony, in kitchen area

Second one must use bar height. One of us has miss judged the height and stumbled getting on or off chair. I don’t
like dangling feet, or or that thin bar on the chair, and sitting at that level with feet not on the ground is uncomfortable after awhile. Can use 4 chairs comfortably any more then it’s crowded. As one ages, bar height stools or chairs are not your friend. Once your neighbor slips off one you will find that out.

Chair Height one level counter ( at new build)

Pro…clean lines, can put food and drinks all around the counter, with something to decorate down the middle (think holiday birthday cake presents), will accommodate 4 to 5 chairs or stools. If you have a table in the kitchen that is also chair height, you can bring chairs on the ends of the counter adding more conversation room. Or incorporate the table since it’s the same height.

More living space, make your entertainment and basic living area larger, while giving enough room for multiple people to be cooking or baking.

Cons….if you didn’t add a double sink in any counter it’s a pain but (personal preference.)
No place to hide junk so one must put stuff away..( pony can hide but only from the living side, kitchen it’s just junk on a counter)
For short people it’s harder to clean the counter because of distance.

Our up north home built in 1992:has one large counter no pony, chair height. Changed to quartz’s still love it.

So when we remodel the pony kitchen in TV, what counter are we going with?

One large counter, I hate junk and with pony it tends to accumulate junk. Plus the bar height chairs can be dangerous for balance issues, older individuals, short stature, those with Parkinson’s. If you have grandchildren, pony isn’t ideal.

All in all pony is a young person’s kitchen, so they can clean up what fell off the top counter, and if they slip off the chair rarely will they break something.

So ask yourself, if you go to a restaurant to have a meal you can eat at the high top table, or regular table, which to you prefer? Whichever you choose, That’s the counter you should put in.

[Rzepecki]

My kitchen sink is located on an outside wall and the cooking mess stays near the sink. This leaves my counter height island free for people to comfortably sit and visit or for a buffet meal. I love it!

[coffeebean]

We usually entertain with 30-49 plus people

Pony counter

Positive….One of our homes in TV has a pony, bar height chairs. Entertaining is easy because of 2 levels to place items. One can “hide” stuff, but no matter what it’s still crap on the counter.

Negative…counter takes more room away from living area, so if you want more living space pony is not the way to go.
While entertaining a red wine bottle was misplaced on the top on pony, it fell on lower counter, red wine in food below, plus the stain. Had this happen couple of times.

Large wasted unused space between your appliances and pony, in kitchen area

Second one must use bar height. One of us has miss judged the height and stumbled getting on or off chair. I don’t
like dangling feet, or or that thin bar on the chair, and sitting at that level with feet not on the ground is uncomfortable after awhile. Can use 4 chairs comfortably any more then it’s crowded. As one ages, bar height stools or chairs are not your friend. Once your neighbor slips off one you will find that out.

Chair Height one level counter ( at new build)

Pro…clean lines, can put food and drinks all around the counter, with something to decorate down the middle (think holiday birthday cake presents), will accommodate 4 to 5 chairs or stools. If you have a table in the kitchen that is also chair height, you can bring chairs on the ends of the counter adding more conversation room. Or incorporate the table since it’s the same height.

More living space, make your entertainment and basic living area larger, while giving enough room for multiple people to be cooking or baking.

Cons….if you didn’t add a double sink in any counter it’s a pain but (personal preference.)
No place to hide junk so one must put stuff away..( pony can hide but only from the living side, kitchen it’s just junk on a counter)
For short people it’s harder to clean the counter because of distance.

Our up north home built in 1992:has one large counter no pony, chair height. Changed to quartz’s still love it.

So when we remodel the pony kitchen in TV, what counter are we going with?

One large counter, I hate junk and with pony it tends to accumulate junk. Plus the bar height chairs can be dangerous for balance issues, older individuals, short stature, those with Parkinson’s. If you have grandchildren, pony isn’t ideal.

All in all pony is a young person’s kitchen, so they can clean up what fell off the top counter, and if they slip off the chair rarely will they break something.

So ask yourself, if you go to a restaurant to have a meal you can eat at the high top table, or regular table, which to you prefer? Whichever you choose, That’s the counter you should put in.

You make an excellent point about which type of table I prefer to be seated at in a restaurant. Most certainly, I do not want to sit at a high top and much prefer the standard table. Having said that, when I sit at the bar in my kitchen, that is a special time for enjoying a cocktail and appys with friends for just my husband. As for eating a meal in our home, we always dine at the breakfast room table or the dining room table if we have a group of guests for a meal.

I have just one question regarding your comment that the one level counter has "more living space" than the two tier counter. Are you referring to the FLOOR space or the space on the counter top for preparation and for serving buffet style? Doesn't that depend on how deep you make the one level counter top? The world is you oyster with that and the floor space one has is what determines how deep you make the one level counter top.

The two tier counter top is pretty much standard at 24" for the bottom tier and up to 18" or more for the top tier. I had our top tier made 18" deep so there is plenty of room to place a dinner plate with room to spare. I have plenty of walk space beyond the counter top and that was determined by how large the entire space is.

The single tier slab counter top is beautiful but I still prefer the "imagined" separation of the space the two tier counter top gives with my very open floor plan. You did give me food for thought though about our aging population being able to get up and down off of a bar stool. That may be a problem in the future but I haven't had a problem with that yet but I'm sure that day will come.

Most of the time, when I entertain, the bar is not used for sitting at so I remove the bar stools and place them in a bedroom. I like to place the platters of appys on the top tier and use the bottom tier as a self serve bar. This set up works great for us and our guests.

[margaretmattson]

Most of the time, when I entertain, the bar is not used for sitting at so I remove the bar stools and place them in a bedroom. I like to place the platters of appys on the top tier and use the bottom tier as a self serve bar. This set up works great for us and our guests.

We do not use stools around our two-tier counter either. When entertaining, we use it the same way you do - appetizers on top tier, self serve bar on the lower. Guests sit comfortably at our table. I can't imagine having a low one-slab counter like those in the newer homes. Too much clutter! Not to mention, the lack of cabinets.

[BlueStarAirlines]

I can't imagine having a low one-slab counter like those in the newer homes. Too much clutter! Not to mention, the lack of cabinets.

Lack of cabinets? LOL. Your comment makes me think you've never actually seen those counters as they have way more cabinet space that the older two-tier cabinets.

Putting aside our personal likes, the fact is that the two tier counters are dated. For your personal use it doesn't matter, but when it comes to resale the two tier cabinets scream "dated kitchen". Why You Should Avoid Double-Tiered Kitchen Countertops (https://www.housedigest.com/1281992/why-should-avoid-double-tiered-kitchen-countertops/)

[Stu from NYC]

Two levels go well with our bar stools

[coffeebean]

~~~

[coffeebean]

Lack of cabinets? LOL. Your comment makes me think you've never actually seen those counters as they have way more cabinet space that the older two-tier cabinets.

Putting aside our personal likes, the fact is that the two tier counters are dated. For your personal use it doesn't matter, but when it comes to resale the two tier cabinets scream "dated kitchen". Why You Should Avoid Double-Tiered Kitchen Countertops (https://www.housedigest.com/1281992/why-should-avoid-double-tiered-kitchen-countertops/)

I agree with the fact that there is more cabinet space with a one level counter top. Usually, isn't there access to cabinets on both sides of the island because the cabinets are as deep as the slab counter top? I looked at the article you linked. Yes, the slab counter top is certainly the new modern look. But.......it will never be for me. I adore the dated look and even more importantly, the function, of the two tier counter tops. I'm old so I'm dated too. LOL.

[Kenswing]

This is hilarious. First we have the “My northern village is better than your southern village” thread. Now we have the my kitchen is better than your kitchen, thread. What’s next, my water heater is better than your water heater?

[vintageogauge]

we had the large flat island in our last home and didn't care for it, constantly cleaning splashes from the sink and could not keep anything on it that didn't belong there. We now have the 2-tier which I like better and personally feel that there is a lot more floor space than if we would have went with the flat island. Also, the space between the two tiers keeps splashes off of the upper surface. We don't use bar stools, we have a table in the kitchen eating area and a table in the dining room area which is plenty for quests but they generally hang around the island which is a comfortable height. My vote is for the pony and I'm not concerned about re-sale, we have plenty of other upgrades that would help in that area if we ever were to sell.

[Velvet]

I have a flat large counter - no sink, the sink is on another counter under the window. No mess anywhere, I use the dishwasher for putting away dirtied items. Very happy with set up.

[Debfrommaine]

Have had both and prefer one level, very easy to entertain and maintain.

[asianthree]

You make an excellent point about which type of table I prefer to be seated at in a restaurant. Most certainly, I do not want to sit at a high top and much prefer the standard table. Having said that, when I sit at the bar in my kitchen, that is a special time for enjoying a cocktail and appys with friends for just my husband. As for eating a meal in our home, we always dine at the breakfast room table or the dining room table if we have a group of guests for a meal.

I have just one question regarding your comment that the one level counter has "more living space" than the two tier counter. Are you referring to the FLOOR space or the space on the counter top for preparation and for serving buffet style? Doesn't that depend on how deep you make the one level counter top? The world is you oyster with that and the floor space one has is what determines how deep you make the one level counter top..

I have 47” from my counter with cabinets and stove to my Island. My island is 58”x9’8”. Now measure from your back counter front to furthest front of counter of your pony, lots of space, but what can you use it for.

Now measure 45” from your back counter, add in depth of Island counter, that you would like. ( some models you would have have less Island, than we have.

You should gain 4 plus feet into your living area. When we reno our pony in our Lilly, we will gain 5.5 feet in the living room. The Island our chairs are under the counter, and still have 60” to my sofa table in the living area. I could push closer to kitchen if I want oversized couches.

I was shocked when I looked at the plans to remove the pony replace with an island, and how much sf there was in the kitchen between the pony, that really is wasted unused space, in my opinion

[JMintzer]

This is hilarious. First we have the “My northern village is better than your southern village” thread. Now we have the my kitchen is better than your kitchen, thread. What’s next, my water heater is better than your water heater?

Yes, but do you have "silent close toilet seats"? If not, you have some work to do... :clap2::clap2::clap2:

[asianthree]

This is hilarious. First we have the “My northern village is better than your southern village” thread. Now we have the my kitchen is better than your kitchen, thread. What’s next, my water heater is better than your water heater?

Did you not read this thread? OP is asking for opinions on Island counter, and pony counter. Nothing about who’s is better.. jump in when you read all the posts, then one can offer thoughts, or do you just need to up post numbers.

But if your answer is holding a Sheldon sign then I apologize

[Randall55]

This is hilarious. First we have the “My northern village is better than your southern village” thread. Now we have the my kitchen is better than your kitchen, thread. What’s next, my water heater is better than your water heater? Why does it always come to "this is another north vrs south post"? I started this thread because I am a retired contractor and am always interested in what people like and do not like in their homes. I had no intention of bashing anyone.

[asianthree]

Why does it always come to "this is another north vrs south post"? I started this thread because I am a retired contractor and am always interested in what people like and do not like in their homes. I had no intention of bashing anyone.

Because sometimes people just like to up post numbers and never read the thread

[2newyorkers]

I had the pony counter(never knew it was called that) and I replaced it with a flat countertop. I love it flat. Easier to bake and lay cookie trays.

[upstate]

We replaced the one level counter with a pony top when we bought our CYV ten years ago with no regrets. It does hide some of the mess and whenever we have people over, they gravitate to either the stools or leaning on the counter.

[margaretmattson]

Lack of cabinets? LOL. Your comment makes me think you've never actually seen those counters as they have way more cabinet space that the older two-tier cabinets.

Putting aside our personal likes, the fact is that the two tier counters are dated. For your personal use it doesn't matter, but when it comes to resale the two tier cabinets scream "dated kitchen". Why You Should Avoid Double-Tiered Kitchen Countertops (https://www.housedigest.com/1281992/why-should-avoid-double-tiered-kitchen-countertops/) I was referring to the lack of cabinets on the wall behind the counter. You must admit, in some of the newer models, it is extremely lacking.

[asianthree]

I was referring to the lack of cabinets on the wall behind the counter. You must admit, in some of the newer models, it is extremely lacking.

I have full wall of cabinets 11 upper cabinets, 3 doublejunk drawers, 6 double pan drawers 2 double lower cabinets, a corner 2 shelf turntable, and double shelf top of pantry, lower pantry has 5 double pullout drawers.

Island has 8 double cabinets, 3 drawers, and the stupid pull out trash drawer, with regular drawer on top. 2 tall sheet pan cabinets

Plus I have 10’ ceiling and uppers are 48”

Not sure what else I need

[margaretmattson]

I have full wall of cabinets 11 upper cabinets, 3 doublejunk drawers, 6 double pan drawers 2 double lower cabinets, a corner 2 shelf turntable, and double shelf top of pantry, lower pantry has 5 double pullout drawers.

Island has 8 double cabinets, 3 drawers, and the stupid pull out trash drawer, with regular drawer on top. 2 tall sheet pan cabinets

Plus I have 10’ ceiling and uppers are 48”

Not sure what else I need Sounds like you have a beautiful and large designer home. I live in CYV. In the newer CYV, they reduced the amount of cabinets on the walls. But, they have a walk-in pantry a bit away from the kitchen. I prefer plenty of cabinets on the wall. I do not like to walk around here, there, everywhere when I am cooking or entertaining.

[asianthree]

Sounds like you have a beautiful and large designer home. I live in CYV. In the newer CYV, they reduced the amount of cabinets on the walls. But, they have a walk-in pantry a bit away from the kitchen. I prefer plenty of cabinets on the wall. I do not like to walk around here, there, everywhere when I am cooking or entertaining.

Would kill for a walk-in pantry, I wanted to add that room on when we built, but that was a NO change to side walls.

How many cabinets less are there, and are they deeper and wider, add up your square feet on your current cabinets, then go to the model you like and get that square feet. You might be surprised on how close or larger the cabinets are.

Our patio villa, had more cabinet square feet, that our designer, that had more cabinets. The designer cabinets while more, were not as deep.

With the addition of walk-in, you keep everything you need in the cabinets, stock from pantry when needed. No need to go to the pantry while cooking.

[margaretmattson]

Would kill for a walk-in pantry, I wanted to add that room on when we built, but that was a NO change to side walls.

How many cabinets less are there, and are they deeper and wider, add up your square feet on your current cabinets, then go to the model you like and get that square feet. You might be surprised on how close or larger the cabinets are.

Our patio villa, had more cabinet square feet, that our designer, that had more cabinets. The designer cabinets while more, were not as deep.

With the addition of walk-in, you keep everything you need in the cabinets, stock from pantry when needed. No need to go to the pantry while cooking. In my friends new CYV she has one floor cabinet, stove, 2nd floor cabinet and refrigerator on the wall. Nothing else.

Only two upper cabinets on wall each between the stove. Pantry is on the other side of the room closer to the living area. And, of course, the center island.

[asianthree]

In my friends new CYV she has one floor cabinet, stove, 2nd floor cabinet and refrigerator on the wall. Nothing else.

Only two upper cabinets on wall each between the stove. Pantry is on the other side of the room closer to the living area. And, of course, the center island.

No cabinets in the island? Again compare sf not amount of cabinets. Single wall cabinets are much deeper than those who have wrap around cabinets

[margaretmattson]

No cabinets in the island? Again compare sf not amount of cabinets. Single wall cabinets are much deeper than those who have wrap around cabinets The 2 cabinets on the wall are standard size - not a deeper version. Yes, there are cabinets in the island but with only two wall cabinets, one for glasses, the other for dishes. Her center island is full. I do not know the actual count of cabinets in the island but there are not many. Perhaps three or four.

[coffeebean]

I have 47” from my counter with cabinets and stove to my Island. My island is 58”x9’8”. Now measure from your back counter front to furthest front of counter of your pony, lots of space, but what can you use it for.

Now measure 45” from your back counter, add in depth of Island counter, that you would like. ( some models you would have have less Island, than we have.

You should gain 4 plus feet into your living area. When we reno our pony in our Lilly, we will gain 5.5 feet in the living room. The Island our chairs are under the counter, and still have 60” to my sofa table in the living area. I could push closer to kitchen if I want oversized couches.

I was shocked when I looked at the plans to remove the pony replace with an island, and how much sf there was in the kitchen between the pony, that really is wasted unused space, in my opinion

You have so nicely given dimensions and explain how you will be gaining floor space when you remove your two tier counter tops and replace with a one tier slab counter top. I'm trying to envision this but not sure I'm grasping it.

[coffeebean]

We replaced the one level counter with a pony top when we bought our CYV ten years ago with no regrets. It does hide some of the mess and whenever we have people over, they gravitate to either the stools or leaning on the counter.

I agree about "leaning on the counter" with the two tier. When standing around, it eases the back and is more comfortable for guests. Silly stuff but it does make a difference when you something to lean on.

[PersonOfInterest]

I've had both. If I am in a North Villages home I'd prefer the 2 level counter, but if I am in a Southern Villages home I would go with the Single Level counter top. North would be Granite and black with gold flecks and South would be Quartz and White with blue/brown specks.

[westernrider75]

My wife and I built a custom, open-floor plan home with a beautiful, one slab island in the center of the kitchen. Much like the ones in most of the newer models. We sold the home and are now living in a smaller home that has a double counter (pony counter) which we love! If we ever build another home, we will not have a large center island because we find them to be a pain. What are your thoughts? Do you like a flat and large center island?

We prefer the one level island. Keeps things visually more open, the two level island seems to create a pony wall that blocks the view. It is also less comfortable to actually sit and eat there, which we do a lot.

[westernrider75]

We do not use stools around our two-tier counter either. When entertaining, we use it the same way you do - appetizers on top tier, self serve bar on the lower. Guests sit comfortably at our table. I can't imagine having a low one-slab counter like those in the newer homes. Too much clutter! Not to mention, the lack of cabinets.

I don’t understand your last comment, how is there less cabinets with the one level countertop?

[Dlbonivich]

They look nice, but functionally the two tier works better.

[Pgcacace]

I love my pony counter. The top is always empty and neat and hides the items on the lower level.

[deborahcme]

Whether to choose a pony or a flat depends on these things: Your personal likes and dislikes are most important! (Avoid all those "the thing you spent thousands on in now dated articles."). But your choice depends on floor space. In a larger kitchen you'll find the island can be just that--an island without sinks or cooktops breaking up the space. In any size kitchen, the pony gives you those extra inches of vertical space to tuck in light switches, cell phone charger stations, etc. There is some argument for the pony hiding the mess that comes with kitchens. And since everyone hangs out at the island, do give some thought to whether you are a "leaner" or a "sitter." And for entertaining? Whelp we could all just do what I've been told George Washington used to do. Apparently he stored doors in his stables (no garages back then) and when the big feed was planned, just put them on sawhorses and covered them with enormous sheets of fabric. They'd round up all the chairs around the house to seat the company. But I'll bet some nearby neighbors were aghast! har har har

[airstreamingypsy]

I have redone the kitchen in the last 3 houses before this one....... always have done a flat peninsula........ with the stove in it. Why stove? So I can cook without having my back to my guests. If I bought a house with a two tier, it's the first thing I would change. Love the photo of the kitchen posted earlier, that's my kind of kitchen.

[kendi]

My wife and I built a custom, open-floor plan home with a beautiful, one slab island in the center of the kitchen. Much like the ones in most of the newer models. We sold the home and are now living in a smaller home that has a double counter (pony counter) which we love! If we ever build another home, we will not have a large center island because we find them to be a pain. What are your thoughts? Do you like a flat and large center island?

Love the flat. Not only for daily use but also its great for spreading out my fabric for cutting. Height is easy on the back and there is lots of space to spread out.

[kendi]

Sounds like you have a beautiful and large designer home. I live in CYV. In the newer CYV, they reduced the amount of cabinets on the walls. But, they have a walk-in pantry a bit away from the kitchen. I prefer plenty of cabinets on the wall. I do not like to walk around here, there, everywhere when I am cooking or entertaining.

Helps you get closer to that 10,000 recommended steps per day.

[Nell57]

The two level is a more expensive feature.
They both have the same area of granite or quartz. But with the two levels you have more cuts, angles, drywall work and electrical outlets. I suspect the saved costs is partially the reason for the one level design.
I have two homes and I live with both designs. I’ll vote for a two tier counter every time

[Alex2021]

I prefer one level- clean and great when entertaining! I can be Rachel Ray, cooking while guests are sipping their drinks and munching appetizers! Space feels open and larger.

[asianthree]

You have so nicely given dimensions and explain how you will be gaining floor space when you remove your two tier counter tops and replace with a one tier slab counter top. I'm trying to envision this but not sure I'm grasping it.

Give you an easy way to understand. Painters Tape. 3-4 inch strip of tape at the corners of the dimensions that I listed.

This will work for trying to figure out a car will fit in the garage, a couch, if you’re unsure if it’s too big, or in this case if an island would give you more living space in your kitchen than a pony.

So for furniture, I actually will fold a sheet to the dimensions of the piece of furniture, then I can move it around the room, or anywhere. Save lot of grief “will that dining table take up two much room. Sheet or tape is your best tool

[coffeebean]

Whether to choose a pony or a flat depends on these things: Your personal likes and dislikes are most important! (Avoid all those "the thing you spent thousands on in now dated articles."). But your choice depends on floor space. In a larger kitchen you'll find the island can be just that--an island without sinks or cooktops breaking up the space. In any size kitchen, the pony gives you those extra inches of vertical space to tuck in light switches, cell phone charger stations, etc. There is some argument for the pony hiding the mess that comes with kitchens. And since everyone hangs out at the island, do give some thought to whether you are a "leaner" or a "sitter." And for entertaining? Whelp we could all just do what I've been told George Washington used to do. Apparently he stored doors in his stables (no garages back then) and when the big feed was planned, just put them on sawhorses and covered them with enormous sheets of fabric. They'd round up all the chairs around the house to seat the company. But I'll bet some nearby neighbors were aghast! har har har

Just wondering..........where did this term "pony" come from. Never knew I had a pony in my home.

[Laurawilcox]

We are celebrating our one year anniversary at our semi custom design her home. We designed the entire thing around the two-tier kitchen counter and love it. It is perfect for entertaining and perfect to hide the dishes in the sink when I have guests over even myself.

[coffeebean]

Give you an easy way to understand. Painters Tape. 3-4 inch strip of tape at the corners of the dimensions that I listed.

This will work for trying to figure out a car will fit in the garage, a couch, if you’re unsure if it’s too big, or in this case if an island would give you more living space in your kitchen than a pony.

So for furniture, I actually will fold a sheet to the dimensions of the piece of furniture, then I can move it around the room, or anywhere. Save lot of grief “will that dining table take up two much room. Sheet or tape is your best tool

Thanks.

[margaretmattson]

[QUOTE=asianthree;2250206]
I was shocked when I looked at the plans to replace my island, and how much sf there was in the kitchen between the pony, that really is wasted unused space, in my opinion[/QUOTE)



I would be willing to pay extra for more space to move around. I have lived in three different styles in the Villages and in each the living area was tight. I wish the developer would make the lots a little bigger to accommodate this. If I spend too much time in the living area, I find myself heading out to the lanai just for some breathing room. When it rains, I spend more time in the garage. When I visit friends, each of their homes have the same problem. Seems like we are on top of one another. Some people have to solve this by glass enclosing their lanai for more room. Can you tell I am not a fan of the homes in the Villages? Sorry, to complain. To me, each house has poor design. But on the up side, it does make me venture out more!

[coffeebean]

[QUOTE=asianthree;2250206]
I was shocked when I looked at the plans to replace my island, and how much sf there was in the kitchen between the pony, that really is wasted unused space, in my opinion[/QUOTE)



I would be willing to pay extra for more space to move around. I have lived in three different styles in the Villages and in each the living area was tight. I wish the developer would make the lots a little bigger to accommodate this. If I spend too much time in the living area, I find myself heading out to the lanai just for some breathing room. When it rains, I spend more time in the garage. When I visit friends, each of their homes have the same problem. Seems like we are on top of one another. Some people have to solve this by glass enclosing their lanai for more room. Can you tell I am not a fan of the homes in the Villages? Sorry, to complain. To me, each house has poor design. But on the up side, it does make me venture out more!
Premier homes have that interior space you crave. You just have to pay more for your home.

[asianthree]

[QUOTE=margaretmattson;2250731]
Premier homes have that interior space you crave. You just have to pay more for your home.

Our new home is as close to a premier, as you can build, today. We have all 10’ ceilings, and 8’ interior and exterior doors, as well as the lanai. We are close to 3000sf 4/3, 800sf garage, 600sf lanai. Homes built with this model are in the $650,000-900,000 then add the cost of lot premium

At this time you can’t build a premier until unit # 84 which is in left field.

[Boomer]

Just wondering..........where did this term "pony" come from. Never knew I had a pony in my home.


I have been wondering the same thing. I found out........

According to bobvila.com -- "Also known as a half wall or a knee wall, the pony wall label emerged more than 150 years ago in Nebraska when a farmer by the name of Walter Clydell decided to build short walls in his horse stable to make it easier to see into the stalls."

(I knew Bob Vila would know. :) )

FWIW, our last 3 houses have had the ponies. I like them for all the reasons mentioned by others here. But the one level counters do look beautiful when I see them on HGTV. But nobody ever piles stuff up on those HGTV counters.

Boomer

[asianthree]

[QUOTE=margaretmattson;2250731]
Premier homes have that interior space you crave. You just have to pay more for your home.

We are remodeling one of our investment homes in TV, and taking out the pony, and putting in an island.

Our new build is as close to a premier as one can get.

[coffeebean]

I have been wondering the same thing. I found out........

According to bobvila.com -- "Also known as a half wall or a knee wall, the pony wall label emerged more than 150 years ago in Nebraska when a farmer by the name of Walter Clydell decided to build short walls in his horse stable to make it easier to see into the stalls."

(I knew Bob Vila would know. :) )

FWIW, our last 3 houses have had the ponies. I like them for all the reasons mentioned by others here. But the one level counters do look beautiful when I see them on HGTV. But nobody ever piles stuff up on those HGTV counters.

Boomer

Thanks for the history of the pony term. Figures it had to have something to do with horses.

[coffeebean]

[QUOTE=coffeebean;2250734]

We are remodeling one of our investment homes in TV, and taking out the pony, and putting in an island.

Our new build is as close to a premier as one can get.

I'm a bit confused by the terms you use. I have cabinets and a two tier counter top in my kitchen that is not connected to any wall. I can walk all around these cabinets with the pony wall and two tier counter tops. One side of this structure has area for bar stools and the other side are the cabinets. I call this an island. Isn't that what it is?

[coffeebean]

I'm a bit confused by the terms you use. I have cabinets and a two tier counter top in my kitchen that is not connected to any wall. I can walk all around these cabinets with the pony wall and two tier counter tops. One side of this structure has area for bar stools and the other side are the cabinets. I call this an island. Isn't that what it is?

I'm quoting myself here because I just realized now that my quote got messed up in my previous post. Sorry if that is confusing but.................

In that post I was asking Asianthree about the use of the term "island" in the kitchen. I'm hoping Asianthree will answer my question in the above quote box. Thanks.

[asianthree]

I'm quoting myself here because I just realized now that my quote got messed up in my previous post. Sorry if that is confusing but.................

In that post I was asking Asianthree about the use of the term "island" in the kitchen. I'm hoping Asianthree will answer my question in the above quote box. Thanks.

Technically in kitchen remodel, a counter that can or cannot be attached but has a two tear countertop is called a pony. At least that’s what all the quotes used for terminology.

Island on all quotes is a one solid surface it can be table high (think wheelchair)
Or chair high (chairs are 25-27”, which is what our island is at new build. I find older people like the pony, because it can hide junk, and if they entertain gives them a bar effect.

As younger people move to TV, the trend is one surface Island, we can roll out dough at perfect height, have a huge surface for entertaining, buffet, bar at one end food in the middle, plates other end. I can have 30 people over at the pony every one crowds at the high end. At the island it’s spread out all so more space

[Randall55]

I'm quoting myself here because I just realized now that my quote got messed up in my previous post. Sorry if that is confusing but.................

In that post I was asking Asianthree about the use of the term "island" in the kitchen. I'm hoping Asianthree will answer my question in the above quote box. Thanks. I am a retired contractor. In geography, an island is land completely surrounded by water. A kitchen island stands alone like land islands. You can walk completely around it A kitchen island can be any shape and can have a pony wall attached.

A pony wall is a half wall. Its origin dates back to when farmers would build half-wall stables to keep ponies. The ponies could not escape and the farmer could easily utilize it. The pony wall made it easier to tend and feed the pony. The name stuck. A half wall in construction is called a pony wall.

[asianthree]

I am a retired contractor. In geography, an island is land completely surrounded by water. A kitchen island stands alone like land islands. You can walk completely around it A kitchen island can be any shape and can have a pony wall attached.

A pony wall is a half wall. Its origin dates back to when farmers would build half-wall stables to keep ponies. The ponies could not escape and the farmer could easily utilize it. The pony wall made it easier to tend and feed the pony. The name stuck. A half wall in construction is called a pony wall.

Yep been pointed out in previous post explaining pony wall. At our small family thoroughbred farm, the 135 stalls are standard height.

Eight stalls have 5’ walls, that are used for birthing, so one can watch to make sure foal or mother isn’t in any distress.

However racing thoroughbreds are call “Ponies”. Fun fact splitting the rail on racing day, is still taboo

[coffeebean]

Technically in kitchen remodel, a counter that can or cannot be attached but has a two tear countertop is called a pony. At least that’s what all the quotes used for terminology.

Island on all quotes is a one solid surface it can be table high (think wheelchair)
Or chair high (chairs are 25-27”, which is what our island is at new build. I find older people like the pony, because it can hide junk, and if they entertain gives them a bar effect.

As younger people move to TV, the trend is one surface Island, we can roll out dough at perfect height, have a huge surface for entertaining, buffet, bar at one end food in the middle, plates other end. I can have 30 people over at the pony every one crowds at the high end. At the island it’s spread out all so more space

Thanks for the clarification.

[thelegges]

[QUOTE=asianthree;2250898]

I'm a bit confused by the terms you use. I have cabinets and a two tier counter top in my kitchen that is not connected to any wall. I can walk all around these cabinets with the pony wall and two tier counter tops. One side of this structure has area for bar stools and the other side are the cabinets. I call this an island. Isn't that what it is?

So far the pony counters only have cabinet on one side due to seating area. We
are remodeling our MI home removed pony with one level slab we gained 3 feet in the dining area and 5 extra cabinets

[Dusty_Star]

My wife and I built a custom, open-floor plan home with a beautiful, one slab island in the center of the kitchen. Much like the ones in most of the newer models. We sold the home and are now living in a smaller home that has a double counter (pony counter) which we love! If we ever build another home, we will not have a large center island because we find them to be a pain. What are your thoughts? Do you like a flat and large center island?

I prefer the double counter. I am currently typing this on a laptop on the high side. I love it & rather dislike the look of the flat ones.

[coffeebean]

These quotes are getting messed up.

The following was stated by Asianthree........
"So far the pony counters only have cabinet on one side due to seating area. We
are remodeling our MI home removed pony with one level slab we gained 3 feet in the dining area and 5 extra cabinets,"
================================================== =========
Does your island with the one level slab have cabinets on both sides? I'm trying to envision how you can gain five extra cabinets. Also.......how did you gain 3 feet in the dining area? Does your one level slab take up the same floor space as the two tier counter top?

[asianthree]

Our new build Warbler, island on sink side across from stove has 3 drawers, a pull out trash drawer with 2 bins( I hate will be converted to regular cabinet) one large tall baking sheet/ cookie/pullout, cabinet, dishwasher, and double cabinet under sink.

On opposite side I have 3 double cabinets. With overhang of quartz counter to accommodate 4-6 chairs or stools.

Our Lilly with pony, we have dishwasher, double cabinet under sink, 2 drawers, cabinet under drawers.

So if we rip out the pony put in a single level Island, I will gain the same cabinets as our current house. The island will move closer to back cabinets by 3.6 feet, ( the curve in the pony takes up a lot of space) giving more space in the living room. Of course doing this floor tile will have to be ripped out, because there may or may not be tile under the pony and probably won’t match.

I see someone else posted they are doing the same thing at their northern home, to gain more space and cabinets

Go look at the new models with island in your model

[Randall55]

Our new build Warbler, island on sink side across from stove has 3 drawers, a pull out trash drawer with 2 bins( I hate will be converted to regular cabinet) one large tall baking sheet/ cookie/pullout, cabinet, dishwasher, and double cabinet under sink.

On opposite side I have 3 double cabinets. With overhang of quartz counter to accommodate 4-6 chairs or stools.

Our Lilly with pony, we have dishwasher, double cabinet under sink, 2 drawers, cabinet under drawers.

So if we rip out the pony put in a single level Island, I will gain the same cabinets as our current house. The island will move closer to back cabinets by 3.6 feet, ( the curve in the pony takes up a lot of space) giving more space in the living room. Of course doing this floor tile will have to be ripped out, because there may or may not be tile under the pony and probably won’t match.

I see someone else posted they are doing the same thing at their northern home, to gain more space and cabinets

Go look at the new models with island in your model A pony is a half wall added to any shape island. It does not have to be curved. It can also be any height, or mixed heights. And, yes. If you remodel and remove the pony from your island, you will have more space because you removed a half wall attached to your counter. As a side note, a pony can be made with cabinets if you prefer more storage.

The Warbler floor plan is listed as a premier home and a designer home on the Villages website. I would imagine the premier Warbler is going to have a more substantial elevation making it much more stately-looking on the outside. Perhaps, larger lanai and garage. But, that is just my guess. The video I watched on the Enclave stated it was going to be a mix of premier and designer homes. So, no changes to the Warbler is also possible.

[coffeebean]

Our new build Warbler, island on sink side across from stove has 3 drawers, a pull out trash drawer with 2 bins( I hate will be converted to regular cabinet) one large tall baking sheet/ cookie/pullout, cabinet, dishwasher, and double cabinet under sink.

On opposite side I have 3 double cabinets. With overhang of quartz counter to accommodate 4-6 chairs or stools.

Our Lilly with pony, we have dishwasher, double cabinet under sink, 2 drawers, cabinet under drawers.

So if we rip out the pony put in a single level Island, I will gain the same cabinets as our current house. The island will move closer to back cabinets by 3.6 feet, ( the curve in the pony takes up a lot of space) giving more space in the living room. Of course doing this floor tile will have to be ripped out, because there may or may not be tile under the pony and probably won’t match.

I see someone else posted they are doing the same thing at their northern home, to gain more space and cabinets

Go look at the new models with island in your model

Thanks for taking the time and effort to allow me to visualize how this gives more space in the living room. I've got it now.

[coffeebean]

Asianthree.......

Looking at the photos that were posted, I just realized how you gained footage in your living room. The counter with the cabinets is moved in the kitchen, leaving less room in the kitchen. I'm picturing more of a galley type kitchen after the reno. I can see how that opens up the space in another room.