One level is easier to clean and gives you a bigger work space.

We recently had our 2 level island cut down to one all counter height. We already have open floor plan, sink & dw still in island. Love the added workspace & we still sit & eat at counter most of the time. Counter height stools much easier for those with aging knees , balance issues etc so more advantages than increased work space.

I think design is moving to one level.

One. Two is a pain. With one you have more surface area, it is easier to clean, and you don't have a narrow upper level where things can fall off of. Not sure why the two level was every created in the first place. Kitchen designers were bored?

Thank you so much everybody. Those were all my thoughts, but I was getting pushback.

One level is way more popular now. These are some things we considered:

Pros of one-level: more continuous counter surface area for food prep and other projects, cleaner design, comfortable seating height, possible safer seating for kids and older people, more seating choices (harder to find bar height stools now), potentially less issue with counter overhang support, more in-style today.

Some reasons you might consider two level: separation from cleanup area, separation from cooktop, outlet location on the backsplash, more defined kitchen boundary, taller cabinet storage underneath, option to stand at the bar

Usually one. But in the right space and done properly, 2 can be nice. I think it depends on your space, the size and of course how you design it.

If you need the counter space for prepping or making pizzas, then go one level. If you like the idea of a serving station or a place people can hang out - go 2 ( remember - the stools are higher and may be difficult for little ones or the elderly to sit in the and enjoy the space) .

Good luck!

I think a lot depends on where your sink is. Sometimes a two level hides dishes on the counter etc. if the sink is on that side. Your choice.

Strictly depends on how private you want the kitchen. I went to one level 8 years ago and love it. Good point was made about stools, too. I use the counter height bar side everyday now.

Depends.