How far away from the sink/cabinets should a kitchen island be?

Far enough that you can open your cabinets and or appliances. I was looking for a home a few years back and the island was too close to the oven. You could not open the oven door all the way. I don't think they would ever sell that house.

Hi Mindy, I am not sure what exactly your question is. However, if you sink is installed correctly, you should be able to put it right next to it.

Hello Mindy! These articles suggest 36 inches so you have plenty of space to walk and open any appliances like an oven or dishwasher.

https://www.thekitchn.com/small-space-solutions-the-proper-walking

https://www.thisoldhouse.com/ideas/building-better-kitchen-island

Before you put an island in your kitchen, you have to make sure you have the room for it. Only use base cabinets (24” deep) so they’re the proper height, length is your choice depending on space available. The countertop should have a 1” overhang all the way around and if you want seating, that requires about a 12” overhang (support the 12 inch overhang with corbels or L brackets incase someone leans on it hard). There should be at least a 36” open distance all the way around the countertop part of the island. You'll need to be able to open all appliances all of the way (refrigerator, dishwasher, oven, etc). Also you should leave at least 36 inches coming into the kitchen before the island countertop starts. If you have that room available, you can build an island from cabinets. To secure the island to the floor, be sure to anchor it really well. The best way to do that is to lay the cabinets on the backside and measure the inside of the bottom of the cabinet. Cut 2x4s to fit inside the bottom. Screw the 2x4s to the floor where you want the island to sit, put the cabinet over the 2x4s and screw the cabinets to them. If using more than one cabinet, screw the cabinets together. That will hold it in place and give you a solid island that you don’t have to worry about moving if it’s bumped into