SFGate

Deborah Butler, Brickwood Builders Certainly have seen it done. We are taking out a lot of the raised counters - people are getting tired of them and they cut down on usable countertop space. This is one that comes down on personal preference. Some people hate cooktops in an island, some love it. We have one and I love it. I spend more time around the cooktop so it allows me to talk with guests or keep up with the TV in the family room.

Dytecture I personally don't mind having a cooktop on the island especially if it is an open concept space where you can overlook the family or eating area.

olldbobbi If I had to choose between and cooktop or a sink in the island, I would go with a cooktop, but I would make sure to have a splatter sheild to prevent burns.

Stoneshop This configuration is rather common. It is a matter of personal preference. Personally, I would not like to have a cooktop in this area, but I can understand why some enjoy it.

Barbra Bright Design Consider making the counter deeper on the cook top side. The counter in this photo is 30" to accommodate the downdraft.

Interiors International, Inc. I like them both ways it really depends on the island. If you need to hide the mess a stove can make from the rest of the room bar height is best. If you have a lot of space I like the idea of my guests at counter top height it is easier for conversation.