A statement island earns attention because of its proportion, material and usefulness, not because it occupies every available centimetre. In a generous room, it is tempting to make the island longer, wider and heavier. Yet an oversized design can interrupt movement, narrow the view and leave stools or appliances difficult to use. The best starting point is therefore the space around the island, not the island itself. Begin with the routes people take. A cook may move between the refrigerator, sink, oven and pantry, while another person crosses towards the garden or dining area. These paths should not collide at a single narrow corner. Open appliance doors, pull-out bins and…