Creative kitchen island ideas
62 Kitchen Island Ideas You'll Want to Copy
By
Farima Ferguson
Farima Ferguson
Farima Ferguson began her career at HGTV where she worked with designers to write about home design. Her work has appeared in HGTV, Insider Reviews, Travel Channel, and more.
Learn more about The Spruce's Editorial Process
Updated on 05/11/22
The Spruce / Christopher Lee Foto
The kitchen is oftentimes the heart of the home. It's where you and your family fuel up for the day, make memories during the holidays, entertain friends and family, and celebrate life's big moments during get-togethers.
At the center of the kitchen is the kitchen island, the part of the room that provides an extra spot for meal prepping, cooking, gathering for casual meals or coffee breaks, and even extra storage space. Aside from all its practical uses, the island can also serve as a decorative focal point of the room. We've gathered our top kitchen island ideas, from big to small and simple to over-the-top to help inspire your kitchen design.
The Best Kitchen Islands for Stylish Storage
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Wide Plank Wood Island
Design by Emily Henderson Design / Photo by Sara Ligorria-Tramp
This black-painted wood island is clearly the contrasting point in this kitchen designed by Emily Henderson. The cabinets and flooring were made from reclaimed wood, and the island was made from fence boards stained in ebony. The wide planks of the island add texture and character while the black color paired with the lighter cabinets and flooring adds a modern touch to the room.
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Seamless White Kitchen Island
Alvin Wayne
This sleek kitchen island fits seamlessly in this minimalist all-white kitchen with clean lines.
The dark wood stools break up the white design and provide a place for the family to enjoy breakfast together. -
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Irregularly-Shaped Island
Amy Leferink at Interior Impressions
If you have a lot of kitchen space to work with, why not go with a unique asymmetrical island? Here, Amy Leferink of Interior Impressions made great use of this roomy kitchen with a large angled island. Irregularly shaped remnants of granite, marble and quartz are often offered at a discounted price, which could potentially help you save money.
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Chic Black and White Design
Charlie Interior Design
A kitchen island can be just as functional as it is stylish. This high-end, chic black and white island has everything you'd need, from a sink with a beautiful antique brass faucet to an open shelving for extra storage space.
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Contemporary Farmhouse Kitchen
Cathie Hong
This kitchen effortlessly combines the old with the new: The owners of this home bought their grandparents' home and kept some original elements while adding modern touches.
They opened up the kitchen with a new layout that displays the kitchen island that was updated with a coat of bright blue paint which gives an instant fresh, new look. -
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Pop of Color in an All-White Kitchen
Blue Copper Design
If you prefer a neutral kitchen design but still want some color, the kitchen island is a great way to add that pop of color. The kitchen island is oftentimes the heart of the kitchen, so painting it in a bright color from the cabinetry is an easy, budget-friendly way to help it stand out from the rest of the space.
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Embellished Island
Blue Copper Design
Color isn't the only way you can help make a kitchen island stand out. Here, Blue Copper Design added decorative accent tiles to one side of this blue kitchen island which adds just the right amount of color and visual appeal throughout the entire home.
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A Refreshing Neutral Curved Island
Design by House of Chais / Renovation by Majestic Construction Engrg
To keep with the bright and airy theme of this home, this neutral dining island boasts light wood slats and curved edges for a subtle, soft look.
The rest of the furnishings are neutral as well to add a cheery and clean vibe to the space. -
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Pretty in Pink
color_place_interior / Instagram
Old furniture can be given new life as a makeshift kitchen island with a little flipping. An easy way to give old furniture a new look is with a fresh coat of cheerful paint like this bubblegum pink color that complements the Kelly green stools.
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A Makeshift Pantry
Design by Velinda Hellen Design / Photo by Sara Ligorria-Tramp
If your kitchen is lacking on pantry space, a kitchen island could be a good opportunity to create a makeshift pantry to store dry goods. This kitchen design by Velinda Hellen features a stunning, spacious island with shelving to house containers of dry goods you'd normally store in a pantry. Placing frequently-used items in this area makes cooking quicker and easier and frees up space in the pantry for items you don't need on hand.
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Cool Blue Coastal Vibes
Britt Design Studio
In this coastal-inspired kitchen, the island blends in seamlessly with its light blue color that perfectly matches the light blue tile backsplash while also highlighting the white quartz countertop and rattan bar stools.
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Cozy Kitchen Design
Herzen Stimme / Instagram
A kitchen island can provide much-needed extra prep space especially in small kitchens where you have minimal countertop space. This homey kitchen features a small, farmhouse-style kitchen island for food prep and dining for two. The oversized knit throw and faux fur furnishings bring an extra cozy factor to the room.
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Beach-Inspired Design
sunshine.beach.reno / Instagram
An oversized pendant light provides plenty of lighting right above this large kitchen island featuring a beach-inspired, curved fluted design on one end that's surrounded by matching wooden stools that provides enough seating for the whole family.
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A Live Edge Bar Top
Devon Grace Interiors / Instagram
This kitchen island design by Devon Grace Interiors is the piece de resistance in this kitchen that's bold and daring, yet cozy and welcoming with its timeless black theme and distinct wooden accents of the heightened countertop and stools.
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Curved Edge
Britt Design Studio
The island is the main hub of this kitchen with a sink, shelving for keeping favorite cookbooks at hand, and low wooden stools for the family around the curved countertop.
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An Island and Dining Table in One
House 9 Interiors
To differentiate the eating area from the prep and cook station, this kitchen island features two different countertop materials. The curved wood tabletop designates the area for the family to sit and enjoy a meal together while the quartz countertop houses a glass top stove and space for food prep.
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A Spot for a Wine Break
Amy Leferink at Interior Impressions
This kitchen island houses a dining table on one end and a food prep area on the other. The best part, though? It comes with a wine cooler and wine bottle storage shelving, making it the perfect place for a wine break.
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Extra Countertop Space
Design by House of Chais / Renovation by Majestic Construction Engrg
If you have a small kitchen island but want more room for prep, you can easily extend it with a simple wood bar top like House of Chais did in this kitchen. The extended bar top can be used for food prep, a quick morning breakfast, or a place for a small gathering.
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A Spot for the Whole Family
Home Consultant
This oversized white oak kitchen island is the centerpiece of an open home layout because it works cohesively with the merged rooms. Its large size seats six people and still has plenty of room on the other side.
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An Extra Place for Food Prep
Erin Williamson Design
With so many alluring elements in this kitchen, from the stunning blue cabinetry to the black and white tile flooring, the island in this kitchen is kept simple with its open wrought iron framework and white marble top. Even though the design is simple, it's versatile enough to provide extra space and easy-access storage on the bottom shelf to keep everyday items.
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Farmhouse Charm
my.farmhouse. fanatic.life / Instagram
This kitchen features farmhouse elements from the floor to the ceiling, including the wood range hood and brick backsplash. But the charming kitchen island steals the show with its shiplap detail and rustic wood countertop.
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Island With a Curved Accent Wall
House of Chais / Instagram
What was once just a load-bearing wall that closed off the kitchen is transformed into an extra countertop space.
Since the wall is a supporting wall, it was given new life as a beautiful curved design that creates a stunning entrance into the kitchen. -
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An Island With Cabinetry
afeliashome / Instagram
Every part of this island is functional, from the large prep area to all the cabinet and drawer storage. There's even space to tuck in the bar stools so there's more room in the kitchen.
70 Kitchen Ideas So Good You'll Want To Cook Every Meal At Home
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Breakfast for Two
Design by Christina Kim / Photo by Raquel Langworthy
Even a small kitchen island can pack a lot of style and function. In this kitchen designed by Christina Kim, the simple, blue island adds character and a spot for a meal for two. The additional brass lighting fixtures illuminate the island when in use.
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A Small Yet Functional Kitchen
Design by Jessica Nelson Design / Photo by Carina Skrobecki
What was once a small, dark kitchen is now the perfect place for cooking a meal for the family and a place to entertain family and friends.
Jessica Nelson Design incorporated this island into the kitchen's design to either provide a place for dining or to display appetizers during intimate gatherings. The open leg design on the one side allows you to tuck in the chairs to maximize space in the kitchen. -
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A Show-Stopping Island
Dan Rak
This grand island is not only the show-stopping piece of the kitchen but stands out in the rest of this home with its large dimension. The rich, dark wood base creates a beautiful contrast with the white quartz countertop, while the shelving is the perfect spot to store cookbooks for future meals.
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A Plethora of Drawers
Home Consultant
You don't need a lot of cabinet space if you have a large kitchen island. This large island has plenty of drawer space to store kitchen essentials. The brass and leather drawer pulls are the perfect accent in this modern Spanish-style home.
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The Perfect Spot for a Home Office
Amy Leferink at Interior Impressions
If you work from home, the kitchen island may be the only place for a makeshift home office.
This kitchen island has everything you need to get your work done, from comfortable chairs to outlets for all your devices. (Plus, easy access to food for those much needed snack breaks.) -
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An Island With a Wine Cooler
Amy Leferink at Interior Impressions
A kitchen island with plenty of seating and countertop space is a dream, but why not take it up a notch and add a wine cooler to the mix? This stunning island features a wine cooler on the end, so whoever's in charge of cooking can easily open up a bottle while prepping food for the family.
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A Place for Preparing and Cooking Food
Amy Leferink at Interior Impressions
A family who loves to cook should have a kitchen that fits all their needs. This kitchen design combines natural elements with minimalist touches. The gray finish on the oversized island contrasts elegantly with the light oak cabinetry. The island features six gas burners, a griddle, and plenty of seating, so the whole family can help with dinner.
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A Cohesive Design
Home Consultant
To make this kitchen feel open and airy, the Home Consultant replaced the stainless steel hood above the kitchen island with white oak to match the island and add a more aesthetically pleasing look to the space.
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An Earthy Color Combo
Home Consultant
All the elements of this kitchen from the mismatched yet complementary cabinetry and island finish to the Carrara marble countertop— add an earthy, visually-appealing look to the kitchen. The wood island blends smoothly with the home's wood flooring for a natural look.
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Wood Slat Kitchen Island
Design by House of Chais / Renovation by Majestic Construction Engrg
This minimalistic kitchen island, made with natural oak wood slats and a round marble countertop is a distinctive and functional piece while keeping with the simple and sleek design of the rest of the kitchen.
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Patterned Tile Design
Blue Copper Design
A kitchen backsplash isn't the only opportunity to incorporate pattern into a kitchen. This kitchen design by Blue Copper Design features an ornate tile pattern on the kitchen island that takes center stage. The understated wine cork style stools add a captivating element without taking too much away from the patterned island.
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Pretty in Pink
House of Harvee / Instagram
If you plan on adding a custom kitchen island, then the world is your oyster. Why not add a design to the island in your favorite color? Here, House of Harvee dressed the front side of her kitchen island in pink marble tile for a one-of-a-kind look that's whimsical and bright.
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Table for Five
Design by Blakely Interior Design / Photo by Andrea Pietrangeli
With seating for five, this large kitchen island is a must-have for a big family.
You can easily get the whole family involved with cooking dinner by creating small stations for food prep along the large prep space this island provides. A great way to bond on family night! -
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A Round Island Design
M. Wilcox Design
A round design can provide a better flow in the kitchen especially if you have multiple cooks in your home. This round island allows you to easily move from one side of the kitchen to the other while adding a unique look to the space.
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Separating Two Spaces
Home Consultant
The wall in this home was opened up to allow for a seamless flow from one room to another. The oversized island is not only functional in the kitchen but is a captivating way to display load bearing beams that differentiate the two spaces while still allowing for an open floor plan.
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A Simple Addition
Dazey Den
A kitchen island isn't always about large countertop space and storage.
It can also be a cozy addition to your kitchen that gives you a spot to enjoy a cup of coffee in the morning with a loved one or even an extra spot to display houseplants to add a homey feel to the kitchen. -
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Soothing Sage
Becca Interiors
If you love the clean, simple look of a neutral design but want a subtle touch of color, sage green is a great color choice. Here, Becca Interiors added a modest yet functional kitchen island in sage for some vibrance in this neutral kitchen.
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Calming Blue Hues
House of Chais / Instagram
An island isn't just meant for the kitchen. An island in a home bar provides a spot to enjoy a Champagne brunch or a delicious breakfast. The curves of this soft blue fluted island are carried through to the arched brass and rattan wall shelving for a coordinated look.
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Creating Different Work Zones
Home Consultant
To create different work zones in the kitchen, the range was placed at the end of this kitchen island.
This allows for food prepping, cooking, and washing dishes to have their own space to create a better flow, so multiple people can be in the kitchen at once. -
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Fluted in Teal
Design by kandhdesignltd / Photo by Paul Raeside
This tiny but mighty kitchen island is the star of the kitchen with its teal green fluted base and matching countertop. The dark, moody color works well in this kitchen because it features large windows that allow plenty of natural light in.
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A Subtle Touch
Finding Lovely
Not only is a patterned tile design on the island a creative addition, but it's easier to clean dirt and grime that may build up over time. In this kitchen, Finding Lovely was inspired by a restaurant's tile design and implemented similar tile work into her kitchen island's design.
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A Stunning Multipurpose Island
Home Consultant
This honed travertine island serves multiple purposes in this minimalistic home.
Not only does it serve as an island for food prep and a buffet bar, but it also serves as the dining room sideboard and a stunning centerpiece of these two areas of the home. -
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Two Islands Is Better Than One
Dan Rak
What's better than one kitchen island? Two. This kitchen designed by Dan Rak features two wooden kitchen islands with marble countertops— both serve as a place to prep food while one also includes seating for breakfast or a coffee break.
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Industrial Style Accents
themddesignco / Instagram
This nature-inspired kitchen features subtle nods to industrial style with a kitchen island with metal legs and metal bar stools that add color and texture to the otherwise neutral design.
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An Open and Airy Look
Home Consultant
If a kitchen is small in size, an island can overcrowd it. To bring in more countertop and storage space without cluttering this cozy kitchen, Home Consultant added a custom island with open shelving that allows the kitchen to still feel open and airy.
The combination of white oak wood and stone countertops creates the perfect balance of the natural elements. -
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A Two-Tiered Island
Design by Grey Hunt Interiors; Photo by Stacy Zarin Goldberg; Build by sun_design_inc
This two-tiered island provides the perfect heights for each purpose of a kitchen island. The lower height is great for food prep while the higher L-shaped level is at the perfect height to sit on bar stools to enjoy a meal.
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Contrasting Materials
corinnelson / Instagram
The island in this cozy kitchen creates a beautiful contrast with the white cabinetry. The end of the island features a wood accent that separates the eating area from the food prep area.
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Little Black Island
Design by Domm Dot Com / Photo by Tyler Hooks
All the sleek black details in this kitchen, from the pantry door to the bottom cabinetry and kitchen island, are instantly warmed up with the wooden countertop on the kitchen island.
Bright bar stool cushions create a striking contrast and tie the white cabinetry into the space. -
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Waterfall Marble Design
Alvin Wayne
This kitchen island is small in size but looks grand because of the waterfall countertop design. This design element brightens up the kitchen nook while adding a one-of-a-kind detail. Gold metal bar stools add a glam look to the kitchen.
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Keeping It Classic
Design by AE Designs / Photo by Madeline Tolle
The natural wood elements in this kitchen instantly warm up the space, from the large wood island to the wood trim on the range hood. Rattan chairs enhance the nature-inspired look of this kitchen while the antique brass pendant lights add texture and color.
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Sleek Wood Bar Top
Design by AE Designs / Photo by Madeline Tolle
A wood bar top separates the seating area from the food prep area on this sleek kitchen island.
The earthy tones bring a neutral contemporary look to the kitchen designed by AE Designs. -
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Repurposed Furniture
Gold a la Mode
If you need that extra countertop space in your kitchen but don't have the budget for one, don't forget to look for old furniture pieces online or at garage sales. Even the most simple furniture pieces can be repurposed into an island for the kitchen.
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Warm Woven Accents
Home Consultant
The sleek matte black kitchen island and cabinetry are modern and simple but warmed up with natural textured elements. The woven stools and wood flooring brings warmth and coziness that make the kitchen feel more inviting.
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An Antique Addition
Madison Clevenstine
Antique furniture is a great makeshift kitchen island option when on a budget. This antique white table adds an elegant touch and is at the perfect height to make meal prep easier.
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Nautical Design
Maite Granda
The kitchen design by Maite Granda in this beach house features several nautical elements from the natural wood furniture to the rope pendant lighting above the kitchen island. The island itself blends with the nautical theme with its blue-and-white color palette— the colors you typically see in beach-inspired designs.
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Tangerine and Copper Combo
Mary Patton Design
We don't know what we love more in this kitchen— the copper tile backsplash that contrasts beautifully with the sleek black cabinetry or the bold orange kitchen island. Either way, everything in this kitchen lends a high— end feel to the kitchen.
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Rustic and Practical
grainonthebrain / Instagram
A kitchen island is simple to build as long as you have wood scraps and basic DIY skills. The benefit of creating your own is making it fit your exact needs.
This rustic-style wood island includes a bottom shelf for storage and a towel rod to keep kitchen towels at hand. 19 Free DIY Kitchen Island Plans
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Going for the Gold
jhkitchencabinetsltd.gta / Instagram
For a dramatic effect, gold-and-white colored stainless steel hexagon tiles were installed throughout the kitchen backsplash and carried over to the island that's accented with a wood trim and white marble countertop.
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Festive Lighting
_sumai_home_ / Instagram
To add pizzazz to their kitchen island, _sumai_home_ installed a color-changing lighting system to illuminate underneath their kitchen island. The flashing lights are great to have up year-round, but they especially add an extra festive touch around the holidays.
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72 Unique Kitchen Island Designs
A kitchen island is a piece that is necessary for cooking, it’s very important that it should be comfortable in using, and this piece may make your kitchen rock! A kitchen island that differs in texture, color, pattern or style form the rest of the furniture would make an accent, it would make the space original.
Here are some ideas you can use for your kitchen: chose a different style, find a shabby chic or vintage piece and place it in a minimalist kitchen – it will rock! An unusual shape is also cool to highlight the island, and so will another material – for example, a wooden kitchen would look cool with a metal island. Have a look at some ideas below and play on contrasts!
Unique Wooden Kitchen Islands
Wood is the most popular material to make a kitchen island, and such a piece can be accented and decorated in many ways to make it unique. You can apply mosaic, paint it bright, change the countertop for a concrete or stone one, incorporate much storage space and even an additional meal space from a different material. Play with shapes: go for a very sleek kitchen island for a narrow kitchen or a curved or asymmetric piece to make a statement with its lines. A living edge wooden countertop is a trendy idea to add a natural touch to the space, and a vintage dresser, table or cutting board integrated right into the countertop is a unique idea.
Choose the ideas you like, mix some of them to achieve a fantastic look.
a pallet wood chevron clad kitchen island with a white countertop stands out in this neutral kitchen and adds a rustic feel
a bright blue and plywood kitchen island with a white countertop plus drawers for storage and appliances
a white kitchen island covered with a large black table to elongate it and make it more functional
a stained wooden kitchen island looks very rough and contrasts the black upper cabinets
a small shabby chic round kitchen island with carved legs is a simple and casual idea for a shabby space
a curved sleek kitchen island with a black countertop and an additional cutting board on top is a gorgeous option for a minimalist space
a contemporary kitchen island with white drawers and a concrete countertop is a cool and sleek idea
a long curved hot red kitchen island with a stone countertop is a great idea for anarrow kitchen, it won't take much space
a green kitchen island with a butcherblock countertop hides some basket drawers inside and adds a rustic feel
a rich stained oversized vintage kitchen island made of a sideboard features a lot of storage and a sink and adds elegance
a unique kitchen island with bright blue legs and a living edge wodoen countertop is a very trendy idea to try
a simple rustic wooden kitchen island stands out in a kitchen with metal shelving units all over
a usual black and white kitchen island is made unique with colorful mosaics on the side
an oversized rustic kitchen island with much storage space, a stone countertop and a round wooden board for cutting or displaying
a stained wood curved kitchen island with much storage space and a green countertop stands out with its color and shape
a neutral minimalist kitchen island with a white countertop, a cooker, a sink and an eating space
a vintage white kitchen island with carved out legs and a dark countertop looks very lightweight and elegant
an oversized dark stained L-shaped kitchen island with a built-in bench and white countertops will save much space and give you everything you need
a large whitewashed wooden kitchen island stands out with its color and finish and adds a relaxed feel to the space
a dark stained kitchen island with a metal countertop features drawers and shelves for storage and feels very rustic and industrial
a round kitchen island of dark stained wood and metal on top plus an additional counter that can serve a breakfast bar or a drink one
a slate grey pallet kitchen island with some eating space and cooking, too, stands out in a neutral kitchen
an asymmetrical kitchen island with a curved part, with lots of storage compartments, an open shelf and a dark stone tabletop
a redwood kitchen island on a platform with a metal countertop stands out in a black kitchen and features open storage space
a large kitchen island of ocher painted plywood with a metal countertop, a sink and a meal space is rnough for every kind of kitchen work
a geometric kitchen island with a stone countertop and chairs attached right to it to save some space
a sculptural geometric plywood kitchen island with hidden storage space stands out with its amazing shape and lines
a creative kitchen island in rich stain with a navy sideboard integrated inside with stone countertops and an additional raised one
a dark stained wood kitchen island with a wooden countertop makes a bold statement in a white kitchen with a vintage twist
a unique pale blue two part kitchen island with a stained wooden countertop, an integrated cooker and some hanging pans on the upper part
a shabby chic kitchen island with a plywood countertop matches the rest of the kitchen and looks unusual
a vintage grey kitchen island witha butcherblock countertop and a round cutting board integrated right into the top
a white kitchen island with storage compartments and a vintage stained dresser integrated into the island looks really unusual
a black oversized and curved kitchen island with a wooden countertop is enough for cooking and eating
a plywood kitchen island on wheels and with drawers and open shelving for storage contrasts dark and blue furniture
a white shiplap kitchen island with a wooden countertop features a unique shape and looks very fresh
a rough pallet wood kitchen island with a concrete tabletop and a built-in sink is a cool contemporary meets rustic idea
a large shabby chic wooden kitchen island has a different color and a vintage look and catches an eye
an asymmetrical teal kitchen island with a black stone countertop, drawers and open storage compartments
a large kitchen island in black and blue, with a round table with a stone tabletop and a pink leg looks really unusual
a large dark stained wood kitchen island with drawers and drink coolers matches the kitchen and looks very cozy
a super elegant carved and stained wood kitchen island with drawers and holders will bring a rustic and vintage feel to the space
an oversized long kitchen island of dark staiend wood and with a stone countertop includes everything you may need
a bright blue vintage dresser on casters with a white countertop and some hangers is a bold and statement idea to rock
a creative kitchen island made of a barrel and a tabletop is unusual and simple to make
a shabby chic dark stained and red kitchen island on casters plus a green wooden box for storage
a rich-stained vintage dresser makes a statement and contrasts the neutral and pastel kitchen while matching the style
a round kitchen island that features cabinets on it whole square and a sink it a very creative piece with much storage space
a shabby dark stained wood kitchen island with a polished stone tabletop will give much space for cooking and even for eating
Other Unique Kitchen Islands
Other materials usually used for building kitchen islands are metal, concrete and stone, and you may go for any of them or combine them all in one.
If you take these materials, play with sculptural shapes or incorporate bold geometry, go extra sleek or include statement colors. There are so many ways to create a unique piece for your kitchen, get inspired!
a vintage industrial kitchen island of wood with a green base of crates that looks very eye-catchy
a small and narrow kitchen island in dark stained wood with a living edge countertop looks really wow
a sleek black kitchen island seems a monolith and contrasts the white kitchen and makes and statement here
a sculptural concrete kitchen island and dining table that is extended to the wall makes a statement
a modern white kitchen and a black kitchen island, a marble backsplash and countertop to tie them up
a gorgeous metal and stone kitchen island in rich rust tones is a fantastic statement with both color and shape for a neutral kitchen
a minimalist oversized kitchen island in white and black separates the kitchen from the rest of the house
a large vintage grey kitchen island with a white stonr countertop and an additional raised one for storage
an industrial meets contemporary kitchen island of concrete and redwood, with sinks and much open storage space
a small metal and wood kitchen island with drawers and wine racks inside is a very space-effective piece
a unique metal vintage wagon on wheels used as a kitchen island, a couple of stools and a pendant lamp
an oversized contemporary kitchen island with a metal base and a butcherblock countertop can be used for cooking and eating there
a colorful mosaic kitchen island with a bright countertop and a beautiful patterned base looks very artistic
a bright blue vintage kitchen island with a stone countertop, open and closed storage compartments
a contemporary wood and metal kitchen island designed as a table to look more lightweight, with a sink and some holders
a colorful Lego kitchen island and bright red stools make a statement in the neutral kitchen and spruce it up
a strange looking kitchen island of metal on casters and with a wooden tabletop contrasts the simple and modern plywood kitchen
a simple metal kitchen island with an open shelf contrasts the traditional white kitchen and a dark stained wooden dining set
a contrasting kitchen island of metal with a wooden tabletop and storage compartments looks unusual and adds an industrial feel
an unusual kitchen island with a forged base and a sleek tabletop of plywood
an elegant thin vintage metal kitchen island with drawers and on casters plus a shelf and a white tabletop
Kitchen with island - 30 ideas.
Design features, pros and cons of kitchen islands What you need to think about before buying an island
Its advantages and disadvantages:
Island for large and small kitchens
The shape and area of the kitchen island depends on the size of the kitchen.
A large kitchen will fit a large rectangular island, stretched along the entire headset.
It is reasonable to place a stove or sink on such an island to form a working triangle. By the way, about the work triangle, we have a detailed article "Kitchen layout: how to arrange furniture and appliances."
The large island also offers ample storage space and is a useful addition to a compact kitchen set.
And if the kitchen and dining room are located in different rooms, behind such an island you can have a quick bite or a cup of coffee.
For a smaller kitchen, a small, square island will do. If desired, you can still take out the working area and organize storage on it.
Or use as worktop and dining area.
Work Island Functions
If finding a free space for an island is problematic, finding a use for it is easy.
Island as an additional worktop
In the article "Kitchen Ergonomics: About the Work Triangle, Heights and Latitudes" we said that the optimal height of the work surface is 15 cm below the elbow. The height of the countertop for most manufacturers of kitchen sets is 85-90 cm. It is far from suitable for everyone, and the price of a non-standard set rises sharply.
Therefore, you can buy a regular set and complement it with a tall kitchen island.
Extra storage island
The kitchen island comes in handy when your kitchen needs more storage space for food and utensils.
Some islands have open shelves. Place a beautiful service and stylish accessories on them.
The kitchen island can be used to store wine. Comfortable and stylish.
Island dining area
The kitchen island will become a complete dining area for several people.
Or turn into a quick bite.
Top of the work triangle
We have already mentioned the work triangle with a kitchen island at one of the vertices.
This is how it looks in practice.
Here you can find several different options for the work triangle:
- refrigerator - sink and worktop on the island - oven built into the set;
- stove - work surface on the island - oven;
- sink - work surface next to the stove - oven.
Place for built-in appliances
A small refrigerator or freezer can be built into the kitchen island.
Pictured is an oven built into the island. In order to get a baking sheet, you have to bend over, but you can immediately lower it onto the countertop.
Bar counter
You can purchase an island with an optional raised top and attach a couple of bar stools to it.
A large family will not fit at dinner, but it can be used for gatherings with friends.
More ideas for bar counters in the kitchen - in our article "Kitchen Interior with Bar Counter".
Zoning
With the help of a kitchen island it is convenient to separate the kitchen combined with the living room, as we did in one of our projects.
Decorative function
The kitchen island stands out in the kitchen and draws attention.
Pictured is a kitchen island made of artificial stone by German designers LEICHT Küchen. It sets the tone for the entire interior.
In order not to overload the space, you can make part of the kitchen island through.
The vibrant color island looks great in a bright kitchen.
Kitchen islands with unusual shapes
In addition to the classic rectangular and square islands, manufacturers offer unusual shapes.
The round island is easy to approach from any direction and there is no risk of hitting the corner.
You can find a curved kitchen island. It takes up a lot of space, but is more convenient and looks more original.
More compact corner island. On the island in the photo, the dining area and the stove were smashed.
Some kitchen islands are multi-level. The countertop is a little higher, and the sink or stove is a little lower. Convenient for work and protects the kitchen from splashes, and guests from the sight of dirty dishes.
Materials for kitchen islands
The main materials for islands are:
- chipboard;
- tree;
- artificial stone;
- stainless steel.
Chipboard option is the cheapest. Due to the protective coating, it is quite durable and can be made in any color.
Wooden kitchen island suitable for classic or country style kitchens.
The artificial stone option is much more expensive than the previous two. At the same time, it is important not to forget that the stone is stained and damaged.
Stainless steel kitchen island - a solution for a modern or high-tech kitchen. Most importantly, do not forget to stock up on glossy surface care products.
The material of the island is selected in the same way as for the kitchen unit. We covered this issue in detail in the article "Step-by-step instructions for choosing a kitchen set".
Kitchen island for a small kitchen
For those who really want an island in their small kitchen, we also picked up a couple of ideas.
Manufacturers Home Styles, SEGAwe and Best choice offer miniature kitchen islands on wheels. You can put a hot baking sheet on them, store glasses and a couple of bottles of wine or cutlery.
The kitchen island on wheels slides under the worktop and is removed when an additional work surface is needed.
So, let's combine the basic rules for kitchen islands:
- large kitchen - an island stretched along the headset;
- small kitchen - modest square or on wheels;
- distance from the island to other furniture - at least a meter;
- in the first place - the useful functionality of the island;
- communication wire we trust professionals.
If you don’t want to run pipes, wires and exhaust to the island, consider the option of a dining island, as in our house project in the Moscow region.
More ideas for inspiration in our portfolio. And more understanding of how you see your future home will be given by our test for stylistic preferences.
40 kitchen island design ideas
A kitchen island is one of the working modules, which is in no way connected with the kitchen set. A similar solution in kitchen space layout has many advantages: increase in the usable area for cooking, the possibility approach the work area from any side, place a sink or oven with a hob surface, expand the number of places for storing kitchen utensils, etc. The design of the kitchen island is much more diverse than it might seem on the surface. first glance. We will talk about the most interesting solutions in this article. Offers beautiful kitchens with an island and the best design ideas. Enjoy reading!
Photo from the source: pinterest.
ru Countertop Cedar 7093/E Concrete We select the correct dimensions of the island in the kitchen
Kitchen island and dimensions kitchens are directly dependent on each other. If there is enough space large, you can afford to install a large rectangular island, which will be stretched along the entire kitchen set.
Photo source: elledecor.comTop top Cedar 1110/S WhiteTo cook on such the kitchen was even more convenient, you can make a sink or stove on the island - this help create a working triangle.
Photo source: interierno.comTop top Cedar 9022/S Whitewashed oakIn addition, in such on a large island, it is appropriate to create a lot of storage space.
Photo from the source: novate.ruTable top Cedar 2238/S Breccia light If your house has a kitchen and the dining room are different rooms, the island can become a convenient haven for fast food lovers.
Large kitchen with the island is not only convenient, but also beautiful!
How to make an island in the kitchen if it small?
This question is asked many. We hasten to please you: a small kitchen with an island is real! However its dimensions, of course, will be more modest than in the first version, and the shape will not rectangular instead of square.
Photo from the source: blog.gnezdo-mall.ruTabletop Cedar 4922K-52 Madura pearlAnother relevant solution is the construction on wheels, which are taken out when you need to increase the size of the working surface, and then it will be possible to slide under the countertop of the kitchen set.
Photo from the source: pinterest.ru Countertop Cedar 8215/12D Bourbon PineDistance between the kitchen and the island
The ergonomics of the kitchen island, the distance from the kitchen to the island are also important questions.
In order for you to be comfortable, it is necessary that it be equal, at least one metre. You should also keep this in mind when choosing the width of the island in the kitchen.
Height islands in the kitchen
The height of the kitchen island is quite an individual thing. It all depends from your height. Choose a height so that you don't have to bend down or raise your arms while cooking. Usually the most comfortable tabletop height - 15 cm below the elbow.
Photo source: na-dache.proTabletop Cedar 9968/S PebblesKitchen island in the interior and its functions
Thinking through the plan and kitchen design with an island, remember that the functions that the island can perform there is actually a lot in the kitchen!
1. Kitchen an island with a dining area - it can be a full-fledged a dining area for several people or a place for quick snacks.
2. Bar rack - there are models of kitchen islands with additional raised tables. A couple of bar stools are attached to them - excellent an alternative to the kitchen table when it comes to gatherings with friends or quick snacks.
Photo source: femmeactuelle.frTop top Cedar 1046/soft Grey-beige Tabletop Cedar 3831/M Douglas light3. Additional work surface - it provides maximum comfort when cooking, makes it possible to create a working triangle. And in such kitchens will be able to cook at the same time several human.
Photo source: excellence-line.vzug.comTop top Cedar 1021/Q Black 4. Additional storage space - if the kitchen is not enough places to store utensils or products, such a decision will become a real salvation! And if the shelves are open, you can organize not just useful places storage, but also stylish.
For example, place beautiful services on them, decor, bottles of wine, jars of jams, pickles or bulk products.
5. Territory to accommodate built-in appliances - click here fit freezer or small refrigerator. Also this is great place to place the oven.
Photo from the source: myberghoff.ruTabletop Cedar 3255/M Cocobolo6. Kitchen island as a means of zoning - if the layout of the kitchen with an island assumes that the room is one with the living room or dining room, then the island will become an excellent tool for separating the working area and the recreation area.
Photo from the source: admagazine.ruTop-top Cedar 9022/S Whitewashed oak20 kitchen ideas with island in a modern style
A kitchen with an island in a private house or apartment is an interesting solution! We have prepared a lot of ideas for you so that you can implement it.
maximum success!
1. Smoothing the corners
An island without any sharp edges edges, and all corners are smooth will require less distance in order to get around it, which means it allows you to leave more space for the kitchen set.
Photo from source: inrosstroy.ruTabletop Cedar 1110/S White Top Cedar 1021/Q Black2. Spelling
Straight or corner kitchen with L-shaped island are definitely good options. But the letter "P" in this design promises where more storage space and work surface. Bar, cooking area, cabinets with dishes - all this will fit and once again prove that the ergonomics of a kitchen with an island very good! But remember that such a solution requires large spaces for incarnation.
Photo from the source: pinimg.com Tabletop Cedar 2946/R Galia3. Ease in everything!
If you think that the island in the kitchen, whose design assumes a closed structure, looks too cumbersome, make shelves open.
So the island will seem visually lighter.
4. Magnet that attracts
Island in the kitchen, photo which is presented below is a vivid example of how this design can become the center of attraction for all household members. Accent will help to emphasize this lighting.
Photo source: pinterest.ruTable top Cedar 7351/S STROMBOLI GRAY5. Non-standard hood
island hob, do not forget about the hood. There are interesting design alternatives to standard hoods that look very heavy. For example, a chandelier hood.
Photo from the source: arsenal-bt.ruTabletop Cedar 111/1 White6. Going beyond
Unusual combinations - something that you should not be afraid of, because the design of a kitchen with an island in a modern style is just welcome! As an example of this - a modern kitchen corner is expanding through the use of a long table in the style of the Victorian era or an island that contrasts with the color of the base colors of the interior.
Suddenly? Yes! Handsomely? Undoubtedly!
7. Moon in the sky
Kitchen island in shape crescent moon is a very multifunctional piece of furniture. From the outside, this dining area, and from the inside - a work surface.
Photo from source: charlesyorke.comTop top Cedar 1110/S White8. Opposites attracted
Modern design models of a kitchen island often suggest contrasts in the materials of its execution. For example, the base can be made of wood, and the countertop - from marble.
Photo source: marbleplus.caToptop Cedar 8345/1 Travertin gray9. Prohibition
If you decide equip on the kitchen island both the hob and the sink, be sure provide good insulation so that moisture cannot get on the electrics.
Photo from the source: interior.
ruTable top Cedar 1110/S White 10. The beauty of marble
Marble is one of the the most beautiful materials of the kitchen with an island in a modern style. Photo - explicit proof of that. Just see how it blends in with fruits, flowers, how appropriately highlights the kitchen island in space.
Photo source: behance.net Countertop Cedar 2347/soft Blanco Marble11. Original square
For some reason accepted consider that the kitchen island should be exactly rectangular. We hasten to destroy this stereotype. A kitchen set with a square-shaped island also looks very good. Everything will fit on it, and there will also be a place for decor!
Photo from the source: toriani.ruTabletop Cedar 7493/Q Umbria12. Layered design
This is very correct and practical. After all, if you cook on one level and dine on another, slightly raising the dining area, it will not get water and dirt.
Maintaining comfort in the kitchen and cleanliness will be many times easier!
13. Pet Island
In homes where there are dogs or cats, their bowls are often scattered throughout the kitchen. It doesn't look very nice, and it often gets in the way. underfoot - not practical and not ergonomic. Simple yet very elegant the solution is to place the bowls on the shelves of the kitchen island.
Photo source: kitchensinteriors.ru Countertop Cedar 2347/soft Blanco Marble14. Kitchen with a window and an island
It is common to think that the interior of a kitchen with an island suggests that the latter is always located in the center of space. But about the importance good natural lighting should also not be forgotten. Therefore if you place this design closer to the window, the island will not be an island from this will stop, and you will get additional convenience.
15. Metal island
Kitchen design with metal island in a private house or apartment - how often do you see such a solution? After all, it is considered that the main the material in this case is wood. However, metal is also appropriate here - this is practical and interesting looking.
Photo from the source: mykaleidoscope.ruTabletop Cedar 811/1 Metallic16. Kitchen island as an art object
Since the island is the central figure in the kitchen, which always remains in sight, it can be turned into a real work of art art! For example, paint in some sudden color, you can even contrast.
Photo source: technika-remont.ruTabletop Cedar 7351/S STROMBOLI GRAY17. Monolith
Continuing the theme of creating art objects in space suggests considering such an option as a kitchen island in the form of a single piece concrete - something akin to sculpture!
Photo from source: mebel-v-nsk.
ruTabletop Cedar 2238/S Light Breccia 18. Mirror Island
Another non-trivial solution that allows you to create the most weightless design, which seems to dissolve in space.
Photo from the source: verona-kuhni.ruTabletop Cedar 1110/S White19. Smooth transition
When the kitchen island flows from work area to dining area the table is convenient.
Photo from the source: salben.kzTabletop Cedar 1110/S White20. Setting the accents
Even if you have chosen a kitchen project with an island, in which the latter is made in a completely neutral color, to revive the kitchen the interior will be helped by bar stools placed around it. More precisely, their upholstery. Make it bright, interesting, it will turn out very harmoniously!
Photo from the source: cosmorelax.ru Countertop Cedar 3504/XX Gray granite21.
Great combinations Kitchen island lighting can be different, moreover, than the more combinations you get, the more interesting it will look, and the lighting level will be better, which is especially useful for the cooking process food. After all, it will be much more convenient for you!
Photo from the source: almode.ruTable top Cedar 8050/soft Sandy Marble22. For the sake of the purity of the experiment
The kitchen island can combine both dining and working zone. And for the latter, it is imperative to equip the hood, if you have installed a hob on the island. Please note that the size of the hood must be the same as the size of the hob.
Photo from source: galaktika21.ruTabletop Cedar 1110/S White23. One island is good, but two is better!
If the kitchen area allows you to swing, do not limit. Does your soul ask you to install two kitchen islands? Try it.
