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50 Stunning Modern Kitchen Island Designs

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When imagining the dream kitchen, that dream for many will include a central kitchen island. The image of a independent block of units, standing bold as brass out in the middle of your floor just has a good old dose of drama about it. The grand notion could be conjured because a larger space is typically required to accommodate such a piece, or maybe it’s the show-off chef in you that would like an audience gathered round. Whatever makes them magic for you, this collection has modern kitchen island designs with colourful cut-throughs, table extensions, open shelving, futuristic geometric carving and plenty of punchy pendant lighting.

Give your show-stopper a stripe of honour. The work surface of this white kitchen island is elevated away from the base units by a stripe of shelving. It’s at this midsection that a flash of bright yellow emerges to form a low table at one end. The yellow accent is picked out in other areas of the kitchen too, such as a single slender unit front, a section of backsplash and on the window frame.

Look sharp. The cantilevered dining table extension on this white kitchen island cuts through the air like a knife’s edge.

Building your dream design could be child’s play. Chunky building blocks spring to mind when looking at the modules that make up this unique piece. The dining bench clicks into place around a shelving unit that has only a minor amount of prep space on its narrow top – a surface perhaps more suitable for decorative items or floral displays like the one seen here.

Don’t let obstacles get in your way. Structural pillars can be worked around and/or incorporated into your kitchen island design. A built-in planter distracts the eye from this solid immovable piece, and even makes it look like it was all part of the master plan. Dark rectangular seated bar stools help pull the entire ensemble together.

Stray from the straight and narrow like this sleek black kitchen island with seductive curves.

If you can stand some heat, get red in the kitchen. Alluring red lighting washes down a black tile backsplash. Red kitchen bar stools, which are the Magis Stool One, look hot at the side of an Origami style central island.

Beam me up Scotty. Whack a futuristic kitchen island in the centre of the room, practice your vulcan salute and definitely don’t wear a red shirt – all fans of Star Trek know how that ends.

Another futuristic design – though a gold faucet, matching planters and kitchen pendant lights give the decor scheme some classic finesse.

Kitchen islands aren’t just for prep. Consider fitting your central island with a kitchen sink and/or cooking hob. You’ll be able to face your dinner guests or chat with family members whilst in the throws of cooking or soaping the dishes. Plus you get to pretend you’re a TV chef! Or maybe that’s just us…

Like bread and butter, white and yellow accent kitchens work in tasty harmony.

Harness the simple yet striking magic of monochrome with a black and white kitchen island.

This sloping floor has been bridged by a bespoke unit that strikes from the roofline like a bolt of lightning.

There’s curvy, and then there’s curvy. This smooth shiny kitchen island looks kinda like a plastic toy boat, with cotton reel bar stools. All this space needs is a cool sputnik chandelier to complete the future-retro look.

Cooking rings sit right in the countertop of this bizarre balancing act. Maybe consider how you might replace a faulty appliance in something so niche though.

Complement the coolest features. Whether the round kitchen island or the round skylight came first, we’ll never know.

We’ll forgive you for thinking we’ve just thrown a round kitchen table into the mix under the pretence of it being an ‘island’. However, this is actually a fully-fledged prep surface set at comfortable standing height, complete with integrated white cooking rings.

Hug your kitchen. No, not with your arms – there are hot things and sharp things in there! Hug the space with the shape of a softly curved cooking island.

This kitchen island with seating positively screams ‘family dinners’.

A central island can be the perfect solution to a lack of wall space.

Kitchen islands also create a clear divide in an open plan living room.

You don’t have to let it all hang out. The kitchen that is. Some concealed modern kitchen designs close up completely so that you’d barely know there was a kitchen there at all.

Cook up your favourite colour scheme with just two additions to a white kitchen: The backsplash around the border and the bar stools at the island.

Gold means greatness, and this gold sided kitchen island under medallion shaped modern chandeliers sure does look great.

Stepping back into something more subtle, a white a wood ensemble creates a calming, minimalist effect.

Earthy tones add heat to white units.

Sweeping away half of the base units makes more leg room for doubled up seating.

The Domitalia Bouchon Bar Stool looks at home in a rustic setting.

A slender chimney extractor keeps the visual of this central island clean. Wooden bar stools match the shade of the cabinet veneer.

Create common ground. Open shelving facing the living area amalgamates the two zones. Plus, the wooden unit helps warm the plain white face of the island. We have covered white and wood kitchens like this in detail before.

Extrude a marble kitchen island from a marble floor – or at least have it look that way by using the same grade of material. The gold bar stools and pendant lights in this kitchen also match with the floor treatment, creating one cohesive look of luxury.

The marble kitchen in this example is part of a grey and white kitchen scheme with a matching marble backsplash. In this case the floor is natural wood to warm the overall look of the room.

Industrial style bar stools add the right decorative edge to a concrete, wood and white kitchen island.

The kitchen island doesn’t have to be the star of the show…gasp! It’s true. Just because you have the space for it doesn’t mean that the decor must revolve around it, so to speak. This unique wall of open kitchen shelving is so eye-catching that the central island has been best left simple.

This ultra simple cooking island takes second place to the base notes in the room, provided by plack pendant lighting, black faucet and hob, and Patricia Urquiola’s popular Last Minute stool design.

Another open shelf kitchen design, this time working in cahoots with a kitchen island ceiling rack.

Serve both sides. Having kitchen island units that open up on each side of the installation means that you truly cash in on its central spot. Cupboards or drawers opening outward from the kitchen area could house tablecloths, placemats, candlesticks and cutlery for setting the dining table without getting in the way of the chef. Or, perhaps a stash of board games could be stacked ready for use in an adjacent family lounge.

Go for a lighter look. The slender legs on this design make it look like a movable kitchen island, but the wired-in electric hob and ceiling extractor tell us otherwise.

Play with light and shade by bringing pale wood tone to a black island. See these other black kitchens for more inspiration.

Gotta love a loft. Exposed brick walls meet a concrete countertop in this loft style kitchen with central island.

A pendant light adds elegance and shine over the dining end of this dual level countertop.

A change in flooring gives this kitchen island its very own island to stand on. If you like this, check out these grey kitchens.

Peachy bar stools make a juicy addition to a mint green kitchen island.

Use lighting strips to highlight and sharpen the edges of a simple design.

Marble kitchens have their own drama.

Mimic surroundings. In this minimalist kitchen, a plain island falls in with the look of blocky white plastered walls.

Layer it up, like this stunning combo of wood grain, marble and stone.

If you don’t have the space for a permanent kitchen island installation, a small rolling kitchen island can provide extra storage and prep space right where it’s needed in a busy kitchen. Then, when you’re all done it can be moved on its castors back to a resting spot out of the way of main footfall.


Recommended Reading:
51 Kitchen Island Lighting Ideas to Brighten Your Counter Workspace
50 Unique Kitchen Pendant Lights

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60 Fabulous Kitchen Island Ideas

1

Bold and Beautiful

Thomas Loof

We can’t take our eyes off of this stunning kitchen island in a Chicago home designed by Summer Thornton. Rather than settling for a workaday Carrara slab, she selected stone with swirls of violet and green. Pro tip: Want to bring color to your kitchen? Style your island with heaps of vibrant (and long-lasting) produce such as artichokes, citrus, and mini melons.

2

Modern Lovers

Brian Ferry

If you have the opportunity (not to mention the budget!) why not make your kitchen island a work of architecture? The designers at Home Studios were inspired by the work of Finnish modernist Alvar Aalto while creating this Brooklyn kitchen and dreamed up a custom island featuring ridged white edges and a Paonazzo marble top that nods to his buildings.

3

Sleek Waterfall

Isabel Parra

Waterfall countertops are a classic. We dig how this kitchen island, in the upstate New York home of Perifio designers Matt Bidgoli and Raphael Portet creates a frame around cabinets painted in a pleasing evergreen shade.

4

Cottage Chic

Haris Kenjar

Everything about this charming Minnesota lake house, designed by interior designer Anne McDonald with Plaad architects, was crafted to evoke the client’s Scandinavian heritage—without going over the top. This sweet custom kitchen island features Scandi-chic turned legs, a detail that cleverly nods to the home’s exterior columns.

5

Salvage Beauty

Paul Raeside

“Reclaim” was the name of the game in this London townhouse designed by local firm Retrouvius. That philosophy extended to the upcycled kitchen island, which began life as a pair of mirrored museum cabinets. It’s topped with a slab of iroko, an African hardwood that Retrouvius salvages from government buildings.

6

Primary Rules

Alanna Hale

Forget white: In this happy Bay Area kitchen, designer Jessica Davis played with punchy primary colors. She painted the island in Farrow & Ball’s Hague Blue and topped it with a huge walnut slab.

7

Color Blocked

Ema Peter

If you can’t afford to replace your kitchen island, then work with what you’ve got! In this ultratrendy mother-daughter home in West Vancouver, Canada, PlaidFox worked with the existing island but remixed it with a fresh coat of teal paint, funky lighting, and plush seating.

8

Minty Fresh

Carmel Brantley

With a home just blocks from the beach, designer Caroline Rafferty made sure her Palm Beach home channelled all the good vibes of the tropical climate. In the kitchen, that meant complementing minty kitchen cabinets with a cream-colored island slab and honey-colored walnut cabinets below. Mother Nature knows best, after all!

9

Allover Marble

Douglas Friedman

We are staunch proponents of an allover pattern look, and the kitchen is no exception. In this art-filled San Francisco mansion, ELLE DECOR A-List designer Nicole Hollis clad the custom island, counters, and shelves in the same raspberry ripple-colored stone.

10

Old-World Glam

Ricardo Labougle

Pass the mustard! We’re obsessed with this custom yellow kitchen island (painted in Farrow & Ball’s India Yellow) in an 18th-century villa on the Spanish island (of course) of Menorca. The look gets further glam, old-world touches via the impressive marble backsplash and the gilt-bronze fringed chandelier, sourced from a palace in Madrid.

11

The Node Knows

Richard Powers

Sure, kitchen islands combine form and function, but we’ve never seen one quite like the sprawling counter in Studio Piet Boon creative director Karin Meyn’s Amsterdam home. Here, the workspace branches off into a dining table for six guests, allowing for easygoing get-togethers.

12

Monolithic Marble

Ye Rin Mok

This Los Angeles bungalow renovation, designed by LAUN, is a study in volumes, from the green lacquered storage block to the sculptural pink stone island. Renovators take note: The latter’s swirling surface makes a chic alternative to its black-and-white cousins.

13

Terrazzo-Topped

Peter Murdock

The view is everything in this shou sugi ban house in Long Island. Therefore the interiors, designed by Joe Nahem, looked to nature wherever possible. For the custom kitchen island, speckled black countertops add some artful intrigue, while the blue cabinetry picks up the hue of the pool just outside.

14

Patinated Brass Island

Stephen Kent Johnson

This look, also in a Long Island home, is bound to please all of the minimalists out there: Designer Poonam Khanna kept the rest of the kitchen relatively muted with pale timber cabinetry and floors, but she clad the island in patinated brass for visual interest. The finish will wear over time, smudged with the family’s fingerprints. In fact, Khanna has instructed the residents not to polish it, as an ode to family life.

15

Sculptural Island

Anson Smart

This sculptural kitchen island, in the Sydney home of Aussie designer Tamsin Johnson, ranks among the best we’ve ever seen. The bespoke creation, carved from a piece of gray Bianco Gioia stone, is equal parts work of art and family gathering spot.

16

Rustic yet Refined

Douglas Friedman

This rustic kitchen, in a Sonoma, California, home designed by Ken Fulk, conjures the country simplicity of the surrounding vineyard estate. The weighty central island was a custom design made from dark timber and topped with a curve-edged slab of marble. Brutalist bar stools by Swedish designer Carl Malmsten complete the look.

17

Lacquered Looker

Roger Davies

Oliver M. Furth infused this Beverly Hills home with Hollywood glamour aplenty. The kitchen was no exception with its larger-than-life kitchen island coated in a sexy, high-gloss coat of Benjamin Moore’s Black Satin.

18

All that Brass

Helenio Barbetta/Living Inside

Who said love of the material was ever a bad thing? Here, in a Milan apartment designed by ELLE DECOR A-List designer Hannes Peer, the island got a Midas touch with shiny brass cladding. To give it edge (literally and figuratively), Peer wrapped it in white-veined black marble.

19

Pepper Granite

Lisa Cohen

A Melbourne, Australia, home makes the most of an open-concept space with a streamlined island crafted of pepper granite.

20

Walnut Veneer Island

Simon Upton

Designers Kelli Wilde and Laurent Champeau gave this 19th-century Paris apartment a modern face-lift with a walnut-paneled kitchen, including a custom walnut-veneer kitchen island.

21

Curved Island

Thomas Loof

In a sprawling TriBeCa apartment, interior designer Richard Mishaan brings the drama with a custom island by Herzog & de Meuron, which features a rounded, black lacquer base.

22

Tile and Marble

Stacy Zarin Goldberg

Architect Carmel Greer brings the drama to her Washington, D.C. kitchen, with a navy central island clad in black tile and topped with black marble.

23

Butcher Block Island

Dustin Aksland

Architect Elizabeth Roberts fashioned a spacious Brooklyn kitchen with an island covered in a custom oak Tri-Lox butcher block, creating the perfect place for meals to be made and enjoyed.

24

Wooden Table Island

Andrew Boyd

25

Vintage Table Island

Bjorn Wallander

A vintage French artist's table serves as the kitchen island in this breezy Hamptons summer house, bridging the gap between the modern appliances and cozy cottage feel.

26

Gray Marble Kitchen Island

Douglas Friedman

A black and white kitchen in a contemporary Los Angeles home designed by Georgia Tapert Howe is complete with a gray marble island, a refrigerator by Sub-Zero, a range by Wolf, and a Rohl farmhouse sink with fittings by Waterworks. The stools are from Design Within Reach, the counters are in a gray marble, the Roman shades are of a C & C Milano sheer, and the pendants are by RH, Restoration Hardware.

27

Stainless Steel Kitchen Island

Richard Powers

In the kitchen of a stunning Alex Papachristidis-designed Manhattan apartment, the custom island is topped with brushed stainless steel. The range is by Wolf, the Saarinen table and chairs are from Knoll, and the Dandelion chandeliers by Tony Duquette are from Remains Lighting; the Roman shade is of a China Seas fabric with velvet trim from Duralee, and the floor tiles are by Paris Ceramics.

28

Sleek, White Marble Kitchen Island

Julia Robbs

A white marble island adds contrast to a New York condo kitchen that's outfitted with black marble, black stools and cabinets.

29

Steel and Walnut Kitchen Island

Joshua McHugh

In this Long Island beach house kitchen, the island is made of stainless steel and walnut, the sink is by Julien, the fittings are by Dornbracht, and the stool is by BDDW. Both the refrigerator and range are by Thermador, and the cabinetry is lacquered in a Ralph Lauren paint.

30

Double Kitchen Islands

Nicole Hill Gerulat

Double marble and Caesarstone-clad islands, which complement pendants by Thomas O'Brien for Visual Comfort, are the highlight of an airy kitchen in Orem, Utah, family home designed by Alice Lane Home Collection.

31

Classic Kitchen Island

Joshua McHugh

Along with a marble and grey island, the kitchen of a Washington, Connecticut, farmhouse includes stools by York Street Studio, a Wolf range, Waterworks sink fittings, and walls painted in Benjamin Moore's White Dove.

32

Salvaged Marble Kitchen Island

Douglas Friedman

In a Sonoma Valley lake house designed by Ken Fulk, the salvaged marble counters are from Exquisite Surfaces, the kitchen range is by La Cornue, the pendants and sconce are by the Urban Electric Co. , and the stools are from Sonoma Country Antiques.

33

Wood and Grey Kitchen Island

Ricardo Labougle

In a London townhouse, a wood island with grey cabinets adds character to the kitchen. The cabinetry by Plain English is painted in Pure Grey 6 by Papers and Paints, the 1955 pendant lights are by Serge Mouille, the wall tiles are by Neisha Crosland, and the floor is made of three varieties of limestone.

34

Subdued Grey Kitchen Island

Simon Upton

In an English country estate, a marble-topped island by Plain English adds character to the kitchen. The space is open to the living area, which includes a Victorian mahogany table, curtains of a Bennison Fabrics stripe, and walls painted in Tablecloth by Paint & Paper Library; the 2015 artwork above the mantel is by Fred Ingrams.

35

All-White Kitchen Island

Michael Lee

The sleek all-white kitchen in a Boston apartment designed by Erin Gates includes a white marble island and wire counter stools by Rove Concepts.

36

Majestic Blue Kitchen Island

William Waldron

The kitchen of Bobby Flay's Hamptons home features custom-made cabinets and an island painted in Benjamin Moore's Majestic Blue. The brass pendants are by Thomas O'Brien for Visual Comfort, and the French bistro chairs are by Beaufurn.

37

Blond Wood Kitchen Island

William Waldron

In hairstylist John Barrett's downtown New York apartment, blond wood and black granite are sleek and sophisticated, without being cold—especially when paired with a vintage French steel chair.

38

Bold Kitchen Island

Design Connect

This island may be big and bold, but it fits perfectly into this white-and-gray kitchen, designed by Chris Barrett.

39

Gray And White Kitchen Island

Grey Crawford

This stunning 1920s Hollywood home belongs to actors Ben Stiller and Christine Taylor, and the gray-topped white island—featuring cabinet supports inspired by hand-turned spindles spotted in an old bakery—meshes perfectly with the red-tiled floor.

40

Rustic Kitchen Island

Simon Upton

In Kit and Tim Kemp's 1920s London townhouse, a squat rustic island sits underneath a Kevin Reilly for Holly Hunt light fixture.

41

Custom-Made Kitchen Island

William Abronowicz

In this California home, we adore this custom-made, marble-topped island, paired with hyper-modern chairs and topped by antique Belgian light fixtures.

42

Oak Kitchen Island

Mikkel Vang

This Kelly Wearstler-designed home in Mercer Island, Washington, combines a brass island with cerused oak cabinetry and marble countertops.

43

Hague Blue Kitchen Island

Richard Powers

In this Hollywood Hills home, the kitchen features vintage pendants from Obsolete and BassamFellows stools from Design Within Reach. The island and cabinets are painted in Farrow & Ball's Hague Blue.

44

Swedish Table Hague Blue Kitchen Island

Simon Upton

The kitchen at Emma Jane Pilkington's Connecticut home features a Diva de Provence range and antique wood floors from Baba. The circa-1700 Swedish table serves as the central island.

45

Crisp White Kitchen Island

Björn Wallander

In this Hamptons kitchen, the crisp white kitchen cabinetry and matching island are custom made, the stools are by BassamFellows, and the pendant lights are by Louis Poulsen.

46

Modern Kitchen Island

Simon Upton

Pendants from a Czechoslovakian factory and 1940s stools by Warren McArthur accent the island in this NYC kitchen; the oven is by Wolf, the floor is lined with Corten steel tiles and the staircase is suspended from cable supports.

47

Caesarstone Kitchen Island

Björn Wallander

The kitchen island and counters in this New York penthouse are topped with a Caesarstone surface, the Bertoia barstools are by Knoll and the 1950s pendants are Italian.

48

Cast-Iron Kitchen Island

Simon Upton

In the kitchen of this London home, the island is made from a 19th-century cast-iron stove and topped with Carrara marble; the pendant light is early-20th-century French, and the walls are lined with 19th- century Portuguese tiles.

49

Icy Blue Kitchen Island

Björn Wallander

The cabinets and island in this Beverly Hills cottage are painted a pale icy blue. Circa-1935 pendant lights and a Wolf range round out the space.

50

Marble and Oak Kitchen Island

Henri Bourne

A 1912 Dutch Colonial home in Philadelphia is an ode to French country chic. The marble-and-oak island is a replica of one at La Mirande hotel in Avignon, and the vintage grape-collecting basket is from the Champagne valley.

51

Sophisticated Kitchen Island

William Abranowicz

In this railway depot turned home in upstate New York, the cabinetry and marble-top kitchen island are custom made, the nickel display case is 19th century and the pendants are by Urban Archaeology.

52

Wine Refrigerator Kitchen Island

James Merrell

Fashion magnate Robert Duffy's kitchen in his Hudson Valley estate features a chic wine refrigerator and vent hood by GE Monogram. The Regency-style mahogany dining chairs are from the 1940s, and the collection of copper cookware includes antique and vintage pieces.

53

Modern Caesarstone Kitchen Island

Richard Powers

This modern Mexican home's kitchen cabinetry, vent hood and table are by Boffi, and the island's countertop is Caesarstone. The sink fittings are by Dornbracht, the range is by Wolf and the ovens are by Miele.

54

Stainless Steel And Walnut Kitchen Island

Joshua McHugh

The kitchen island in this modern bachelor-pad-turned-family home is made of stainless steel and walnut. The sink is by Julien, the fittings are by Dornbracht and the stool is by BDDW. The refrigerator and range are by Thermador and the cabinetry is lacquered in a Ralph Lauren paint.

55

Honed Carrara Marble Kitchen Island

Simon Upton

In the kitchen of a midcentury weekend house in Connecticut, the island has a top of honed Carrara marble. The wall tiles are by Waterworks, the stove is Viking and the stools are by York Street Studio. The 19th-century Windsor chair is a family heirloom, and the 1920s English pendants are from BK Antiques.

56

Dark Wood Kitchen Island

Thomas Loof

This kitchen in a home designed by Celerie Kemble is anchored by a dark wood island. The kitchen chairs are by Palecek, the pot rack is by Urban Archaeology, the vintage tole chandelier is from Etsy and the floors are oak.

57

White Ash Kitchen Island

William Waldron

In a New York pool house inspired by Morocco, the kitchen island is topped with custom-painted white ash. The sink is by Julien, and the fittings are by KWC.

58

Lush Green Kitchen Island

Eric Piasecki

The kitchen in a Houston home designed by J. Randall Powers has an island and cabinets painted in a lush, grounding green. The sink fittings are by Rohl, the range is by Wolf, the refrigerator is by Sub-Zero, the wall tiles are by Walker Zanger and the stools are by Mecox.

59

Cool Blue Kitchen Island

Trevor Tondro

A serene home in Pacific Palisades flaunts a cool blue kitchen island. The 1920s pendant lights came from Thanks for the Memories, and the barstools are from Organic Modernism.

60

Quartzite Kitchen Island

Björn Wallander

A sultry home in Lake Tahoe, California has a kitchen island of quartzite and cabinetry by Bulthaup, an oven by Miele, a stove and hood by Gaggenau and a sink by Blanco with Dornbracht fittings. The custom-made stools are covered in an Edelman leather.

Anna Fixsen Deputy Digital Editor Anna Fixsen, Deputy Digital Editor at ELLE DECOR, focuses on how to share the best of the design world through in-depth reportage and online storytelling.

20 photos in the interior, planning ideas

A kitchen with an island is one of the most practical solutions for creating a comfortable work area. The island can carry almost any functionality - from the cutting area and storage space to the stove, sink or dining table. Thanks to the island, it is easy to form the perfect "working triangle" and make cooking convenient and easy. At the same time, the island can be played with a variety of interior solutions, making it the center of the kitchen space. nine0003

What is a kitchen with an island?

An island kitchen is a type of suite with an additional stand-alone table on the cabinets. The island is part of the main furniture set, continuing the overall style. This kitchen element is multifunctional and combines both storage space and a work surface that can be supplemented with almost any kitchen equipment. It can be used as a dining table or have a separate eating area, often located above the rest of the surface. It is convenient to use such an island for serving food, when the cutting area and all the dirty dishes and cutlery on it are hidden from the eyes of the diners behind a height difference, and sometimes even a small partition. nine0003

In addition to the slicing and eating areas, the island can be equipped with more complex functions if the appropriate communications are made. Having designed the water supply and sewerage when developing the kitchen, you can place a sink on the island as one of the vertices of the "working triangle". By placing a hood over the island, you can install a hob on it.

The island can be used as an addition to any kitchen. Often there are direct headsets with an island - due to it, such kitchens manage to successfully build a "working triangle". However, island kitchens do not have to be linear - there are also corner and even U-shaped options. nine0003

Pluses and minuses

Kitchens with an island have many advantages, which is why they are often paid attention to when space allows such a layout.
Ergonomics. Any of the working areas can be placed on the island, thus creating a “working triangle” of the optimal size. Thanks to this, while cooking, you can not walk around the kitchen at all, which facilitates and speeds up the process.

  • Zoning. With the help of the island it is convenient to limit the space in the kitchen-living rooms, separating the living area from the kitchen. nine0021
  • Storage. The space under the island top is almost always put to good use with extra storage drawers. Thanks to this layout, a lot of the necessary inventory can be moved from distant boxes, to which you had to walk or reach, at arm's length.
  • Communication and presentation. If the island has a eating area, you can cook while interacting with guests without standing with your back to them. nine0021
  • Appearance. Such kitchens look stylish and expensive; with a well-designed interior, the island becomes the logical center of the room.
  • Additional level. Island allows you to create a second cutting surface of a different height. This is very convenient when several people of different heights cook in the kitchen, and everyone uses a comfortable work area.

Like any other type, kitchen layouts with an island could not do without flaws. nine0003

  • Area. The island itself takes up a lot of space, and wide enough passages should be placed around it. Therefore, in small-sized or too narrow kitchens, it will not work to place such a set.
  • Communications. To install a hob on the island, and even more so a sink, you need to take care of the supply of communications in advance, which can be difficult, and in some apartments it is impossible.
  • Convenience. An island with a dining area will not replace a full table, especially for a large family - it is more an option for snacks and parties than for family dinners together. Therefore, one of the many options for the island is a bar counter. nine0021
  • Cost. Option module - additional cost. If you take into account the supply of communications, then a kitchen with an island can be much more expensive than a similar option without it.

To minimize the disadvantages of a kitchen with an island, it is worth considering the features of this type of headset when designing.

Layout features

In short, one of the most important points in the location of the island in the kitchen is the width of the aisles. It is advisable to make the distance from the island to the walls and the rest of the headset about 120 centimeters, but not less than 1 meter. Otherwise, it will be inconvenient not only to walk, but also to open drawers, doors, use the oven and dishwasher. It is especially important to observe these values ​​in corner and U-shaped kitchens, when many drawers on the island and the main cabinets open towards each other from different sides. nine0003

In order for the island to perform the functionality of a bar counter or a dining area and a cutting surface, no additional calculations and communications are required, so this option is the simplest and most budgetary. At the same time, at least on one side, it is important to make the overhang of the tabletop by at least 30 cm, otherwise it will be uncomfortable to sit behind such an island.

When placing the hob on the island, it is important to foresee the installation of a hood over it and its connection to the ventilation of the house - it can be very difficult to do this after finishing the kitchen without harming the interior. It is also important to take into account in advance the hidden supply of the power cable to power the hob. It is not always possible to use gas stoves on the islands due to the difficulty of supplying communications and safety requirements. nine0003

Transferring a wet point is also a process that needs to be worked out at the repair stage, because it is necessary to lay pipes to the island in a hidden way. Not every floor can be ditched for such purposes, so in apartment buildings this may be difficult - it is better to check with a specialist in advance. But if all the necessary communications are connected, it is reasonable to place not only a sink, but also a dishwasher on the island.

If the dimensions of the kitchen allow, the island can easily combine several zones. And if the combination of sink and hob requires a lot of space so that splashes of water do not fly into the pan, then the nearby stove and cutting area will be very convenient to work with. nine0003

Styles and colors

The island does not limit the flight of fancy when designing a kitchen. This addition is easily combined with almost any style and color. The fashion of recent years suggests using muted pastel colors in the kitchen, a combination of white, black and gray shades. The disadvantage of too bright colors in such kitchens is their visual abundance, created due to an additional piece of furniture, which can cause them to get bored over time.

Choosing the style of island cuisine, you can use almost any. It is more difficult than others to fit such a headset into minimalism and Scandinavian style, however, this is quite possible. At the same time, there are several options in which the island kitchen looks the most advantageous. nine0003

Classic style

Kitchens with an island in a classic style look luxurious, turning the kitchen in an ordinary house into a palace. Beautiful milling on the facades of the headset becomes the center of attention, which is why such a kitchen, complemented by an island, does not require practically any additional design solutions - furniture sets the tone for the interior. Such kitchens look great both in light and even white colors, and in dark, up to black options.

Modern style

Original and functional kitchens in a modern style, complemented by an island, are really practical and comfortable. The hood located above the stove in such interiors can be a great addition to the overall design - modern models for the islands look stylish and technologically advanced. Additional workspace and storage help achieve the main goal of modern-style headsets - maximum convenience and efficiency of use.

Designing kitchens with an island includes working out a huge number of little things and nuances. To get the interior that best meets your expectations, you can always seek help from experienced professionals.

40 design projects with photos

In modern design, centralization is considered good form: furniture is located not only along the walls, but also in the center of the room. In the kitchen, it is not only fashionable, but also convenient: there is a chance to make an additional work surface. nine0003

In this article we will talk about kitchens with an island: we will understand its capabilities, see photos in the interior and learn about various design options. Interesting projects and advice from experts will help to equip the room beautifully and functionally.

What is it?

A kitchen island is a free-standing part of a kitchen. Most often it is placed in the center of the kitchen.

At the same time, this element of furniture can be used in different ways: as a countertop or as a table, place a stove or sink there, turn it into a kind of bar counter ... It all depends on the needs and design project. nine0003

The lower part is rarely made hollow: often there are additional drawers for storing kitchen utensils.

Let's make a reservation right away: it is unrealistic to put it in a small kitchen, since it takes up too much space.

However, in small kitchens, an alternative is usually used - the peninsula. This is a protruding structure, on one side adjacent to the wall or headset.

The islands themselves are of two types:

  • fixed, i.e. built into the floor;
  • and mobile (mobile).

The former are more suitable for a full worktop with a stove and plumbing, and the latter for those who want to equip an additional countertop.

Features of the layout

It should be noted that these are more tips than immutable rules. However, if you neglect them, then the island will simply interfere.

If you want to place a sink or hob on it, communications must be carried out in advance. You will also need an island hood (read what it is in this article). It costs more than usual, but it completely solves the problem of unpleasant odors.

For comfortable movement in the kitchen, the distance from the walls and furniture to the island must be at least 80 centimeters.

The standard length of the island is from 90 to 120 cm, and the optimal height is about 80-85 cm, like the lower section of the headset. nine0003

If you want to use the island as a dining table, make sure that the overhang of the tabletop over the base is at least 30 centimeters. Otherwise, it will be uncomfortable to sit. In addition, make sure that nothing will interfere with the extension of drawers or the opening of doors, if they are provided in the island.

As for combining it with a bar counter, please note that in this case you will need to make a two-level tabletop. Otherwise, either the stand will be lower than expected, or it will become inconvenient to work on the island. nine0003

Tip: When creating a kitchen design project, it is recommended to evaluate the arrangement not only from the top view, but also from the side. So you will understand how comfortable it will be to work and move around the room.

Keep all of this in mind when planning a kitchen with an island. Real projects with photos will be shown below - we are sure they will be useful to you.

Is the additional surface worth the restrictions? Now we'll see!

Advantages and disadvantages

Just like any other piece of furniture, an island has both pluses and minuses.

For Against
  • Ergonomics. The island forms a working triangle, significantly facilitating movement around the kitchen and making cooking more convenient;
  • Extra storage space for all sorts of little things, which is always missing;
  • In kitchen-living rooms or studios, it acts as a delimiting element;
  • Looks stylish and modern. nine0021
  • Needs a lot of space. Ideally, the kitchen should be at least 20 sq.m., unless, of course, you have purchased a compact model or transformer.
  • The need to carry out communications (if a sink or stove is placed on it). In an apartment it is more difficult than in a country house.
  • Purchase and installation will cost a large amount, even if you order a budget model.

Brief summary: Of course, there are more pluses. Plus, they're all quite heavy. Therefore, if space and finances allow, choose and order the model you like. nine0003

Now let's see if there are any restrictions on the size of the room it will fit into.

Island and kitchen area

As mentioned above, this requires a large kitchen. For example:

  • Kitchen-living room 20 squares;
  • Combined with a hall, hallway or studio apartment.

However, for a small kitchen, this condition is bypassed if you choose the right configuration: a compact island or a transformer.

Experts advise to choose the option with a pull-out mechanism and a folding top, which can replace a dining table and provide additional work surface. And in the “passive” state, such an island is generally invisible, which frees up a lot of space in the room. nine0003

Let's see photos with different types of designs.

American style

It is believed that this type of kitchen design came from the USA.

In general, it is characterized by natural materials and the combination of practicality with beauty. Therefore, we recommend decorating the island with light wooden facades and marble countertops. Moreover, furniture from IKEA will not work - Americans appreciate monumentality, so you have to find a really impressive set. nine0003

In the kitchen-living room, it makes sense to delimit the zones with a long island with a prominent bar counter. It is comfortable and looks very unusual. Turn it into a dining table with a raised table top. Due to the size, there is enough space even for a large family.

Please note: According to design standards, it must follow the configuration of the room in shape. That is, square for square and rectangular for elongated.

An American classic kitchen with a fixed island is not only fashionable but also practical. Take a look at how the chandelier is framed. It is surrounded by an iron cascade, on which you can hang beautiful crockery and other kitchen utensils. nine0003

The décor is structurally similar to the main set - pay attention to the patina on the facades. But the color scheme is chosen in contrast. This technique makes the room visually more spacious. In this case, the main focus is on the center of the room - black wood is underlined by a white background.

Provence style

You will need to use light, light colors and natural materials. We also advise you to choose furniture that is not too heavy in appearance, without complex textures and decorative curls. nine0003

Let's start with a very unexpected decision. Remember, we wrote about the desired dimensions of the room? Meanwhile, some find a way out even for a small area of ​​12 sq. m.!

The sink is removed to the miniature island and there is room for a small cutting surface. This allows you to narrow the main headset. True, in this case, you will have to do with a two-burner hob.

The built-in sea-green peninsula also looks beautiful. Such furniture does not clutter up the center, making it possible to equip a full-fledged kitchen-dining room. It is best to use this technique in large rooms with at least two windows - one for each zone. nine0003

Modern idea: This configuration is convenient when you need a dining table and additional storage space at the same time. In addition, it is easy to do it yourself.

Classic style

In interiors decorated in a discreet traditional style, the island is also appropriate. Try to make the kitchen in light colors, with white facades and stone countertops. Delicate patina, elegant details look amazing, especially in this scale. nine0003

A little tip: place the shaped chandelier directly above the kitchen island. It will become the main decoration, while providing enough light above the work surface.

In the style of modern classics, the addition of non-standard textures or bright colors is welcome. We offer you this option: an island that plays the role of a dining table on the one hand, and a traditional surface with drawers on the other. To dilute the white-beige palette will help chairs of an unexpected color - for example, lilac. nine0003

If you decide to remove the wall between the kitchen and the room, it can be a worthy replacement. Place it on the border to emphasize the transition between zones.

A good move - hanging structure with stucco bas-relief. It is not only beautiful, but also practical - hang pots and pans on it. True, for this they must have an appropriate appearance - old dishes are unlikely to decorate the interior.

Scandinavian style

The bright and airy kitchens are ideal for an island. Don't believe? Let's prove it now!

Opt for natural textures such as wood. Pay attention to how multifunctional the small island is made. It combines a sink, a work surface, a dining table and a place to store books and all sorts of little things. This is the perfect solution for a small space.

Think twice before installing an island combined with a breakfast bar. If you place the countertop at the optimum height for the bar, it can be uncomfortable to work on. Therefore, estimate immediately whether you will be able to cook without discomfort. nine0003

It doesn't have to be big. Miniature models also look very stylish. Especially if you add an unexpected element during the design - for example, make legs from rough raw bricks. On a glossy snow-white background, they look interesting and original.

But for a spacious kitchen-living-dining room, a huge island is suitable, which combines several functions. For example, a table and a wide work surface. It is better to make it from natural materials. A wooden table top, for example, is now in vogue. nine0003

Contemporary

We love this look. Minimalism in design emphasizes the beautiful textures of countertops and the whiteness of facades. In a sufficiently large room, every centimeter is involved - rationally, don't you think?

It is better to make a table as simple as possible, but functional. Try to combine several purposes in it - a dining area, storage space, a wide work surface.

Classical styles often use rectangular or square. However, you should not be limited to them - round, wavy, zigzag. All this is quite feasible, especially if the area allows. We love this red and white design. It looks very stylish and catchy, becoming the dominant element of the interior. nine0003

Another option is an abstract island design. Smooth lines and elements flowing into each other attract the eye. If you do not want to force the room with furniture, turn it into a full-fledged work surface. A small sink, a modern hob, which at first seems like an unusual countertop decor. Fashionable and modern, right?

The modern design of the kitchen with a 9-square island also definitely deserves attention. A rounded corner set and a tiny island look organic, and the right set of tones makes the room visually more spacious. nine0003

The combined island surface is another trendy trick. Break it visually into three zones: cooking, work surface and countertop, which will play the role of a dining table. Of course, in a small room you can hardly put such a design. But in a large one, it will be appropriate.

Loft style

The idea of ​​decentralization is typical for a loft, so installing an island is the right and logical move.

If the kitchen is located in the attic, pick it up in width flush with the even part of the ceiling, and install a U-shaped set around the perimeter of the room. It seems to be nothing complicated, but the room immediately seems stylish and modern. Use traditional materials for this style - wood, brick, concrete.

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