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Kitchen center island design


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.

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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.

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.

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.

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:

  • stationary, that is, built into the floor;
  • and mobile (mobile).

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

Planning features

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, indents from walls and furniture to the island should 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.

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.

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 extra surface worth the restrictions? Now we'll see!

Advantages and disadvantages

Like any other piece of furniture, the 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.
  • Requires 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.

Now let's see if there are any restrictions on the area of ​​the room where it will fit.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

The island is also suitable for interiors decorated in discreet traditional motifs. Try to make the kitchen in light colors, with white facades and stone countertops. Delicate patina, elegant details look amazing, especially in this scale.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Light island with stove combines the functions of a dining area and a hob. This is convenient, but you need to remember about safety: you still don’t need to cook and have a snack at the table at the same time, there is a risk of getting burned.

In a white kitchen, we recommend not to overload the interior with an overly complex shape of the kitchen island. It is better to limit yourself to a simple headset, and focus on wall decoration and decorative elements. In a private house, replace one of the partitions with a large window.

Summing up, we note that the kitchen island requires a serious approach. You will have to draw up a design project, think over the arrangement of furniture and carefully select all the elements.

However, if you are not afraid of complexity, and space allows (or if you have an idea how to install it in a small kitchen), then we definitely recommend it for purchase! It is not only beautiful and comfortable, but also very fashionable.

Island Kitchens: Kitchen Island Interior Design Ideas - 8 Real Photos

Every hostess dreams of a large, spacious and functional kitchen. She imagines herself fluttering lightly from the stove to the refrigerator, and her happy family settled down at dinner.

In recent years, the kitchen with the island is gaining more and more popularity. And this is far from new! We all watch Hollywood movies, right? Somehow note that in almost any American kitchen there is always an island placed in the center - a structure made of the same materials and in the same style as the main kitchen set, but standing separately. By her own. If you think about it, it is certainly very convenient and functional. Of course, some difficulties will arise with the supply of communications to the center of the room, but if everything is thought out in advance, the result will exceed all your expectations!

Surprisingly, for such a kitchen layout it is not at all necessary to have a huge country house or a large villa! A small kitchen with an island also happens. A good design will help make it ergonomic. You can order an island of any size and configuration: with blank facades, behind which household chemicals will be hidden; open shelves, where you place your favorite knick-knacks; with sliding sliding doors; with drawers for storing small things . .. There can be a lot of options, it's up to you to choose!

In this article, we will explain in detail what a kitchen with an island is. Photos of various options will clearly show how this can be arranged. However, do not forget that this is just a small fraction of all that we can design and manufacture specifically for you and your family, and also taking into account the features that your room has! Each piece of furniture in the Mr.Doors showrooms is made only to order with an accuracy of a millimeter. From our catalog you will learn what the design of a kitchen with an island can be, and the photos will clearly illustrate it.


You can place a sink with a dishwasher on the island - and this will also serve for your daily comfort.


And you can place storage modules in it, pick up chairs of the desired height and voila - you already have a bar counter!


In addition to the rectangular islands we are used to, now it is possible to design a kitchen island with radius facades and rounded countertops. The island can also be L-shaped. Agree, they look just enchanting:


The island is able to combine two zones: a kitchen and a dining room, but it is also able to distinguish between them. Everything depends on the task at hand. The island can be executed in the same color scheme as the entire kitchen, or it can be completely contrasting - then it will play the role of an art object in your home! It is equally good and made in modern style, and in the good old classics. Of course, you can make an island in the kitchen with your own hands, but believe me, it's better to trust the professionals. The island placed in the center of the kitchen is a bold design decision that will change your idea of ​​the kitchen as a whole!

Kitchen layout with island

If you are a happy owner of a kitchen with an area of ​​at least 16 square meters, then you can safely plan a kitchen interior with an island. For a kitchen with a smaller area, this option is also suitable, but then you have to give up a full-fledged dining table and be content with the surface of the island.

If you have a large family, and you are used to getting together in the evenings, then you are unlikely to like this option. But if you live together, or the family is large, but the pace of life is different for everyone and it’s impossible to get together physically, then the option with the island can be put up for discussion. Moreover, you can choose a kitchen set as a straight or corner layout - depending on the area of ​​​​the kitchen, the island can be placed separately or integrated into the set itself, using it for space zoning.

Let's get back to the numbers!

The optimal dimensions of the kitchen island:

  • length from 120 cm;
  • width from 60 to 150 cm;
  • height 85 to 90 cm.

An important point: do not forget that the space from the main kitchen to the island must be at least 100 cm! Otherwise, you simply will not be able to move freely between tables and use household appliances.

Next, we will highlight in detail the functionality that can be arranged on a kitchen island, and at the same time we will figure out why an island is needed in the kitchen. It just needs to be thought out in advance, even at the stage of preparing the kitchen for repairs. All communications should be displayed in such a way that nothing prevents you from enjoying your new kitchen.

It is best to entrust this to Mr.Doors professionals. Our designers will be happy to think over every little thing together with you and completely free of charge will draw up a detailed design project of the future kitchen-island, which you simply pass on to your builders. All details will be taken into account, and you will definitely be satisfied with the result.

What to place on the surface of the island and under the countertop? Views of the island in the kitchen.

Sink and hob

Between them, leave a working area with a width of at least 30 cm, and a hood must be installed above the hob! An oven can be equipped under the countertop. If the refrigerator is also standing somewhere nearby, then the kitchen island will be used by you exclusively for preparing and cooking food.

Sink and dishwasher

Place drawers and several modules with shelves under the countertop. And you can even provide for a built-in washing machine! In this case, the island will become a storage for clean dishes and cutlery, and all household chemicals can be stored here. So it will not intersect with food, which, you see, is very important!

Cooktop and cutting area

When choosing this layout, chairs should not be placed around the island for safety reasons.

Washing and cutting area

Here it is quite easy to add a little dining space.

Processing area only for food preparation

If you live alone or rarely cook, then you can limit yourself to small refrigerators and freezers that will comfortably fit under the countertop.

Cooktop, sink and food preparation area

The island should already be much larger than average and serve exclusively as a kitchen area, it is better to equip the dining room separately.

Fully equipped dining area

Here you already need to think over the required number of outlets in order to be able to use small household appliances: a coffee machine, a toaster, a kettle, a microwave, and so on.

If a hob is not installed on the island, lighting must be provided. Imagine how irresistible your kitchen will be with an island and decorative lighting!

As a rule, the island in the kitchen is used for an additional work surface or as a bar counter. But no one limits you! The above combinations are selected for one purpose: to show that there is no single correct solution, you choose your island yourself. Combine and place so that it is convenient for you and takes into account the features of the room where it will be located.

Modern kitchen with island (modern)

The functionality is thought out, the equipment is selected, it remains only to choose a style for the future kitchen!

For lovers of minimalism, modern trends and impeccable Italian design, we present modern kitchens from the leading Russian furniture manufacturer Mr. Doors.

The variety of colors, textures and facade finishes will amaze your imagination! High-quality furniture fittings and many years of experience in the furniture market gives us the opportunity to proudly say that by purchasing a kitchen at Mr.Doors, you get a modern high-quality product that meets high European quality requirements.


Facades in films will perfectly fit into the interior of your apartment or country house, and our own production of facades in high-gloss enamel finish allows you to reduce production time and guarantee the quality of the coating.

Our kitchens are unique in that we are ready to offer our customers not only ready-made modules, but also to design something new especially for you! Dilute the already familiar kitchens with new design solutions, add furniture lighting in a way that no one has done before!

We will be happy to share our experience with you and hope you enjoy the modern kitchens with an island by Mr. Doors, the projects and photos of which you see on our website.


Classic kitchen with island

We have something to offer to those who appreciate classic design. Conciseness and impeccability of finishing facades with natural wood, perhaps, will never go out of fashion. A kitchen with an island in the classic style looks truly triumphant.

Our facades made of solid wood, MDF, finished with veneer or matte enamel, can be made in any size and solution: hinged, folding, folding and even sliding!

Decorative cornices, arches, plinths, locks, capitals and balustrades will perfectly complement the composition and bring the atmosphere of a unique Italian classic design into your home. A large kitchen with an island in a classic style from Mr.Doors will not leave anyone indifferent:


A large selection of furniture handles, made in a classic style, will please you. A huge assortment of filling for the kitchen will help you put everything in its place so that using the kitchen is easy and comfortable! You will rightfully be proud of the work done and enjoy the admiring exclamations of your guests.

We will be infinitely grateful to you if you recommend us to your friends and relatives, and we, in turn, will delight you with the best service, quality and professionalism!

Small kitchen with island

If you are the owner of a small kitchen, and the island is the dream of a lifetime, no need to be upset. There is a way out: redevelopment! Combine the space with an adjacent room and get the now so popular studio apartment, in the interior design of which one room smoothly flows into another: the living room or dining room flows into the kitchen, and the island separates them. These are amazing options that save usable space and implement bold design ideas.

Consider a two-sided island: let it be larger than usual, but as full as possible with the necessary things that you plan to place in your kitchen.

The island surface, in its larger size, on the one hand, should be a cooking, washing or working area, and on the other, a dining area! At the same time, install the island so that the dining area is already in the living room (dining room), and the area with the sink, cooking and cutting surfaces is part of the room called the kitchen.


You can draw borders on the island itself. For example, make two countertops and set them at different levels. The dining area may be higher, but then the chairs must be selected at the appropriate height. Or maybe lower - in this case, the cooking area will rise above those who are sitting at the table. You can also draw a border by placing pots with artificial plants in the center.

In a small kitchen, you need to remember every centimeter of usable space and place household appliances in the sequence in which you will use them. Built-in appliances will save you space, and the kitchen will look better in this case. Also, the doors of all cabinets should not interfere and overlap each other.

Somewhere you can even use folding furniture: for example, the surface of the island table can be folded down, and the sink can temporarily turn into a cutting surface if you install a large board on it or close it with a sliding table top. Even the hob or socket block can be hidden under the work surface!

Don't forget the windowsill! In a kitchen where space is limited, it can serve as an extra workbench or even pass for a decent dining surface.

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