They say lively conversation is the spice of life. And we are talking kitchens – so if open floor plans are de rigueur, and guests gravitate to the kitchen, why is it so difficult to have a multi-person conversation while sitting? Eating islands (and peninsulas) are in vogue for good reason: we spend most of our time in the kitchen socializing while we prep and cook. The problem is that when seated in a row, one can usually only see the person to either side. The guest on either side of your immediate neighbor is left out. Changing that straight line to convex has several effects, not the least of which is livelier conversation. The shape adds to the circumference, providing more personal space for all seated, while not intruding too much (often not more than eight inches); a gentle curve permits all guests to see each other with a nod of the head. Curves tend to soften objects, so a convex island adds a feeling of sensuality. Photography ©2014 Adam Gibson