4'-0" is ideal, but you can get away with 3'-6". In this kitchen we designed the island , which also functions as a table, to be 3'-8" from the back counter and about 3'-6" from the wall.

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Have to say that 42" is absolute minimum especially if there will be traffic. 48" is great with seating because you have to allow for people getting up and down and people walking around.

Tape it out and see what you think or set up sawhorses with a piece of plywood that leaves 36", 42", 48".

I have 50" between range and island and made my island smaller so there is 44" between island and sink and dishwasher. I cannot believe how much difference 6" makes! I can have 10 people in my kitchen now with no one cramped.

That's way more than I had hoped, but makes total sense!

Back to back seating locations with traffic between them need 60" between them. Otherwise there isn't room for people and the traffic.

I always have 48” on the side with seating and that is if the stools are small if you have big stools you will need more.