Kitchen island bench ideas
36 ways to create a fabulous and functional feature |
(Image credit: Malcolm Menzies)
Kitchen island ideas boost the room’s preparation and storage space plus they often add seating, but they have a huge aesthetic impact on the room, too.
They might be sized-up in larger kitchens, or of more compact proportions in smaller rooms, but either way kitchen ideas such as the selection of materials, color, shape and more can make an island into an attention-grabbing feature.
An island can also be a brilliant asset in a kitchen design, separating the working areas from space for family and guests to allow the chef to work safely without being isolated.
Kitchen island ideas
These kitchen island ideas will help to inspire your choice of size, shape, finish and design, as well as island seating ideas, and create a new addition that will completely transform your cooking space.
1. Use fluid shapes to add movement and interest
(Image credit: Trevor Mein)
Fluid shapes lend movement and dynamism to this elongated island. Sculpted to aid smooth passage through an open-plan home, the worktop overhangs at one end to provide breakfast bar dining. The work of Australia-based Auhaus Architecture , this island is made from Australian hardwood, with a durable oiled finish. Formed from vertical planks, which is more cost-effective than bending wood, the timber structure appears to rise out from the wooden flooring below.
2. Use a waterfall edge for a seamless look
(Image credit: Malcolm Menzies)
A popular design feature that will elevate any island unit, a ‘waterfall edge’ involves continuing the countertop seamlessly from horizontal to vertical. ‘Deeply veined marbles look particularly fabulous using this technique, especially if you source a slab large enough to allow the veining to flow right down to the floor,’ says Oana Sandu, lead designer, Blakes London . ‘It’s important to think about the flooring and how it will complement your choice of worktop, usually a contrast works best.
’
3. Supersize countertops and handles for impact
(Image credit: Darren Chung)
A generously sized kitchen calls for an island with generous proportions to ensure it doesn’t appear lost in the space. Here, Chiselwood used chunky countertops and outsized handles for an eye-catching island that packs a powerful punch.
‘The thickness of the countertop was achieved by mitering deep strips around the perimeter. You get impressive depth without the pressure of excessive weight on the cabinetry beneath it,’ explains design director Martin Holliday.
(Image credit: Darren Chung)
Put a statement island firmly in the spotlight with thoughtfully selected light fittings that score highly on both form and function.
‘Characterful, statement lighting should enhance the drama in the kitchen – not steal the show,’ says Richard Atkins, design director, DesignSpace London . Iconic shapes with revered design heritage are likely to outlast trendy fittings, while swerving standard pendant lineups in favor of off-set positioning is a simple move with impressive results as part of breakfast bar ideas.
5. Use mixed materials for an interesting finish
(Image credit: Life Kitchens)
When choosing the right sized island, do consider the impact is has on the countertop installation. ‘Joints can be really obvious on island units that are centrally positioned and designed to be noticed,’ says Graeme Smith, head of retail design, Life Kitchens . Islands longer than 11.5ft (3.5m) usually require two slabs of stone or quartz. ‘Adding timber elements such as chopping blocks or breakfast bars is a good way to mix materials while disguising joints,’ he adds.
6. Think beyond a conventional rectangular shape
(Image credit: Mary Wadsworth)
Think outside the box when designing a kitchen island with a dynamic shape that’s totally unique. ‘It’s a brave move to step beyond classic rectangular designs but the pay-off can be huge in terms of visual impact. Here, we designed the island to look like a beautiful piece of furniture. It reflects the owners’ adventurous personality, while also helping to zone the open-plan room and create a clear division between cooking and relaxing,’ explains Jane Powell, designer, Roundhouse .
7. Go bold with the choice of materials
(Image credit: Ben Waterhouse)
A bold approach to materials can provide extraordinary results. Formed and cast on site by Kote London , this concrete island is a stand-out feature in an otherwise understated kitchen. ‘We wanted it to feel like a piece of art in the space,’ explains Stephen Nash, founder, All & Nxthing Interiors . ‘Rounding off all the corners improves functionality and flow, while helping to soften the look of what is actually a big and very practical island,’ he adds.
8. Try a T-shaped island for an interesting spin
(Image credit: Darren Chung )
A T-shaped island can avoid one of the classic kitchen island mistakes of going too small in a large room and missing the opportunity to accommodate a host of activities at the heart of the room.
This design creates clearly defined work and dining zones, and different countertop materials make the elements distinct, too.
If you opt for an island configuration like this, choose between a conventional table height with chairs for seating for the dining area, or keep this element at the same height as the rest of the island and use barstools as here.
With the latter choice, upholstered barstools with backs are the most comfortable option.
(Image credit: Nicholas Yarsley)
A cantilevered bar in solid walnut puts extra wow in this 5m long island conceived by Forbes Rix Design . ‘The floating effect was achieved using a steel box frame structure that was concealed under the countertop and between the cabinets, then bolted to the concrete floor,’ explain Andrew Hall, director, Woodstock Furniture . ‘Not only is it guaranteed to impress, but it also leaves more flooring visible, which boosts the sense of space.’
10. Incorporate showstopping fixtures and hardware
(Image credit: Amanda Evans Interiors)
Consider every element for a successful kitchen island design. ‘Islands tend to become the home theater of cooking, putting the cook at the center of the layout,’ says Graeme Smith. When all eyes are on the island at meal times, every part of it – from the breakfast bar to smaller details like the appliances and the hardware along with the kitchen island lighting ideas – need to be well-considered design-wise.
In this kitchen by interior designer Amanda Evans , a showstopping apron-front sink becomes a key feature in the design, emphasizing the rustic roots of the design’s contemporary take on farmhouse style.
11. Create island seating with a wraparound countertop
(Image credit: Davide Lovatti)
‘Islands bring multiple functional benefits to the kitchen, but they can also help to add character to a design,’ says Smith. ‘Large format materials such as granite and quartz tend to work well for modern kitchen islands.’
If you’ve fallen in love with your countertop material, why stop at just one surface? Installing a wraparound countertop will bring the material down the sides of the island, creating a luxurious sense of seamlessness, perfect for a very modern look. Leave the perpendicular side open, and this can work as a space for your island seating, as demonstrated in this example.
12. Think carefully about walkaround space
(Image credit: Blakes London)
When considering island size, think about the space you’ll need beyond it.
‘Islands are an eye-catching feature in a kitchen but they can eat up a substantial amount of space,’ says Smith. ‘So when thinking about adding one into design, it is important to consider the available space and the circulation area around the island.
'Typically, 48in (1200mm) between the cabinetry and island will be needed for a scheme that invites an easy flow.’
In this compact kitchen, the island area is maximized, but leaves just the right amount of space for users to move comfortably around its sides.
13. Mix and match your storage options
(Image credit: Baskerville)
If storage space is at a premium in your kitchen, adding an island into the mix opens up a wealth of possibilities. Incorporate a mixture of cabinets and drawers to allow effortless storage for table and cookware of all shapes and sizes. You can also consider adding open shelving to display some of your most characterful kitchen essentials.
‘To add a homely touch, opt for an integrated island book-end,’ says Smith.
‘This will free up countertop space and allow for the most loved cookbooks to be put on display for an extra layer of personality.’
14. Add curves
(Image credit: Tom Howley)
Soften a rectangular kitchen island design with a curved breakfast bar on one side. This Tom Howley kitchen island mixes different lines to create an elegant feature at the center of the room, and provides an inviting place for guests to sit.
15. Create different zones
(Image credit: Future/Mark Bolton)
Switching up materials on the surface can help to break up a long kitchen island. This can also be done to help zone different areas, depending on what they might be used for.
For example, a surface used for food prep might be kept as stone, whereas wood might be used for breakfast bar ideas – like in this particular kitchen.
If you love this neutral style, our white kitchen ideas will bring you more inspiration.
16. Double the seating with an L-shaped breakfast bar
(Image credit: Laura Marin/ Extreme Design)
You've probably seen a fair few L-shaped kitchen ideas, but did you know the format typically used with cabinets can work really well for an island?
Creating an L-shaped breakfast bar with your island can be a handy way of doubling the amount of kitchen island seating within the same kitchen island size and creating a sociable cooking space.
It also makes serving food and drinks easier, so this design is perfect for those who love to entertain. This design also works well for farmhouse kitchen island ideas, as it adds the sociability that defines this style of kitchen.
17. Think big
(Image credit: Smallbone)
For fluting on a grand scale, look to Smallbone’s Icarus Collection for inspiration. Demonstrating the impact of outsized sculpting in the kitchen, this unique design nods to 1920s glamor via scalloped glass, rich textures and warm tones. A shimmering wash of brushed gold accentuates the curved oak cabinet fronts, while allowing subtle graining to shine through.
‘The unique curve was achieved using materials technology typically used in the protection zones for cars in F1 motor racing to reinforce and lighten the doors,’ says Smallbone’s ideation director, Iain O’Mahony. ‘The aim was to capture a sense of boundless imagination and craft-led design.’
18. Go long
(Image credit: Future/David Cleveland)
If you're blessed with a lot of space in your kitchen, your kitchen island ideas can be as large as you want.
One way to make your kitchen stand out is to make the island extra long with ample seating – almost reminiscent of a cocktail bar. We love this elongated design, with space for seven, as a modern alternative to a dining room table.
19. Use it to make the cooktop the center of the room
(Image credit: Future/Brent Darby)
By putting the cooktop on a kitchen island, you're helping to make it the central point of the room. This means a person cooking can face the rest of the room (rather than with their back turned) – making it a clever, sociable design feature. It also offers lots of space around your cooker, for food preparation.
We love the blue kitchen cabinetry in this country house in Wiltshire.
20. Add in a work table to create a multi-purpose space
(Image credit: Plain English)
From a functional perspective, a kitchen island provides extra prep space, cutting down the footwork between key areas of sink, cooker and fridge in an open plan kitchen.
It also provides a boundary between the work zone of the kitchen and the neighbouring living/dining zone, keeping children and guests from getting under your feet. It is increasingly a work space, too.
'The rise of the "working kitchen" reflects a repurposing of the traditional kitchen and an increased demand for multi-functional spaces,' says Merlin Wright, Design Director at Plain English and British Standard by Plain English.
'Worktables offer added space and can include clever kitchen storage ideas to hide not only kitchen items but also office paraphernalia. Often they incorporate a seating area with high stools, adding another valuable space to work or relax and helping to zone the kitchen.'
21. Make space for seating at a kitchen island
(Image credit: Neptune)
Almost all kitchen islands incorporate some form of seating. Even the smallest space can usually accommodate an overhang of worktop and a pair or bar stools, although more of us are opting for long islands with integrated low level, table-style seating at one end as a comfortable set up for family meals and entertaining.
'Extra work surface space is high on our wish lists,' says Annie Tullett, Kitchen Designer at Neptune Hove. 'The kitchen layout is vital to creating extra workspace and designing a harmonious flow.'
You can also make your portable kitchen island ideas work even harder for you by incorporating smart designs and appliances for a veritable tech hub, such as hidden power sockets and charging points.
22. Work in a dining table
(Image credit: Martin Moore)
As well as extra workspace, one of the top modern kitchen island ideas right now is the addition of a dining table for a clever space-saving solution.
Richard Atkins, Design Director at DesignSpace London , says: 'A decade ago, islands were generally only one height: either worktop height or a higher bar level. Now there is much more variation, with different levels for different functions.
'We regularly integrate a table into the island, due to two main reasons: when a living space is more compact and there isn’t the space for a separate dining table, or when clients actively want to eat in close proximity to the kitchen.
'
(Image credit: Roundhouse)
23. Make a display
(Image credit: Martin Moore)
The small finishing details of a kitchen add another layer of depth. Plain English's Merlin Wright explains: 'No longer content with pure practicality, clients are incorporating open kitchen shelving ideas within islands to act as beautiful displays, curated to showcase unique collections – from vintage curiosities and ceramics, to cookery books and glassware – each adding color and personality.'
(Image credit: British Standard by Plain English)
Giving a nod to simple English countryside style and the cottagecore aesthetic, panelling is having something of a moment.
Merlin Wright at Plain English says: 'The long established love for tongue and groove panelling is more popular than ever. The natural design choice helps to add a tactile and warm feel when used on kitchen island ideas.'
If you love workstations and breakfast bars with a rural flavour, dive into our farmhouse kitchen island ideas, too.
25. Use a kitchen island to introduce new materials
(Image credit: Future)
The change of pace offered by an island often encourages a change of material, introducing another dimension to your kitchen design. You might afford to be braver here with a bolder finish or colorway, or perhaps a more expensive material that would be prohibitive across an entire kitchen.
‘An island tends to define the kitchen, forming a neat and transparent division to the dining and living space beyond,’ explains Laurence Pidgeon, director at Laurence Pidgeon.
26. Add color with a kitchen island
(Image credit: Martin Moore)
A kitchen island is a fabulous opportunity to incorporate fresh kitchen color ideas.
Laurence Pidgeon says: 'At least the facing part of the island should be in warm and welcoming materials to make a transition from efficient kitchen surfaces. For a show-stopping centerpiece, look to luxury materials, from deeply veined marble and mottled granites to exotic timber veneers and gleaming mirror or burnished metal.
'There’s also a trend for an increasing use of textured materials – think raw or rough-sawn wood, honed or flamed stone tops – as well as a contrast of color or finish between the island and the rest of the kitchen.'
27. Max out kitchen island storage
(Image credit: Paul Massey)
Kitchen island ideas are a golden opportunity to up the storage space in your kitchen, so ensure you work it into both sides of a deep unit.
Store seldom used items, accessories you need for dining or even homework related clutter on the outer side of the island, with cooking essentials on the kitchen side.
28. Work two kitchen islands into a larger space
(Image credit: Martin Moore)
If space allows, two kitchen islands is always better than one. Double island kitchens have become the last word in luxury, and they’ll maximize usable countertop area compared to a super-sized single island.
Consider the functions of each island when you’re planning the design: one might be for cooking while the other provides seating, for example.
29. Pick a luxury material for your kitchen island
(Image credit: Humphrey Munson)
As we said above, it’s the time of strongly veined marble. ‘Deep veins are a key trend in island surfaces, and marbling comes in lots of colors. Consider seeking out greener tones, which are calming and sophisticated,’ says Sarah Spiteri, editorial director at Homes & Gardens.
30. Add in a wine cabinet
(Image credit: Davide Lovati)
A few years ago, wine cabinets were considered a luxury appliance, available only to those with big budgets and big kitchens to match. These days however, as prices and sizes have reduced, there’s something to suit every scheme and size.
Wine coolers built into a kitchen island are a great investment, as they will free-up space in the refrigerator as well as the worktop while keeping your wine in optimum condition.
If you enjoy entertaining, friends and family can help themselves to a glass while you get on with the cooking.
As our kitchens become more like theaters, with island cooking becoming more popular, it makes sense to have a wine cabinet to complete the performance.
31. Light your kitchen island
(Image credit: Naked Kitchens)
Kitchen island lighting is a really important element of its design and should be planned in right at the beginning of your kitchen design journey.
If you do go for pendants, like in the stylish kitchen above, bear in mind that odd numbers are more visually arresting than even numbers.
32. Devote budget to bookmatching
(Image credit: Cullifords)
A stunning slab of stone can be showcased in several ways around an island.
Bookmatching, where slices of stone reflect their neighbors, or slip-matching, which uses stone slices to produce a continuous effect, are effective techniques but, where possible, a seamless piece of stone mounted across the front of a unit is especially awe-inspiring.
33. Consider deep drawers for a streamlined look
(Image credit: Roundhouse)
Swap cabinets for drawers in a kitchen island if you like sleek modern kitchen ideas.
Like these versions, drawers can be generously sized to offer excellent storage for a whole range of kitchen essentials and, because they’re pull out, everything is easy to access.
34. Pick a material that matches your home's fabric
(Image credit: Paul Massey)
If your kitchen is dominated by a particular feature that's part of your home's architecture – whether a marble fire surround or aged wooden beams, as in the cottage kitchen above – picking a material for your kitchen island that complements or mimics it will create a look that's streamlined, sleek and calm.
However, it is important to work at least one element of contrast into the room – here, the rough plaster of the white walls offers the relief.
35. Be flexible with a mobile island
(Image credit: Future)
Kitchen islands needn't be fixed pieces of furniture – freestanding or portable kitchen islands are a versatile choice that allow you to flex your kitchen layout over time, or to create a more relaxed look that's the antithesis of the fitted finish.
These kitchen islands are unlikely to house appliances or electrical points – instead they are purely for prep and eating, storage and, of course, display. Put yours on casters if you want it to be truly mobile.
36. Go for an island with fluted details
(Image credit: Malcolm Menzies)
A modern twist on traditional fluting, ribbed designs take a more angular, geometric direction. The surface of this island by Blakes London features drawers with deep battened fronts.
‘The deeper the battens the more dramatic the aesthetic,’ says lead designer Magnus Nilsson. ‘Bear in mind that battening will add weight to drawer fronts. Here we added weights at the back for balance and a smooth experience when opening the drawers.’ Magnus took the vertical detail up a level by incorporating a stripe into the liquid brass painted wall units – adding a touch of ritzy glamor.
Is a kitchen island a good idea?
‘Even in small kitchens, a kitchen island is a fantastic way to maximize space, as you can make it as multi-functional as possible by incorporating integrated appliances and smart storage solutions,’ says Darren Watts, Showroom Development and Design Director at Wren Kitchens.
‘The kitchen is the heart of the home social life, and it’s important to consider the comfort of the cook. Integrating cooking appliances into the island puts them at the centre of the action – even better if there is space for bar-style seating too so guests can socialise while the food is prepared,' adds Daniel Bowler, Director of Eggersmann UK.
Is my kitchen too small for an island?
If you don't have a lot of space, you might be thinking your kitchen is too small for an island – but this may not be the case.
‘It is all about proportions and practicality; the room needs to work ergonomically and have enough space to move around. For example, to incorporate seating on an island, we would suggest a minimum of 1.2m between a breakfast bar and a wall or furniture,’ says Richard.
Don’t install an island for the sake of it; they have to play a vital role in cooking efficiency (preferably multiple roles) and not get in the way. Try using a table or even boxes to block out the space for a few days – it’s a great way to work out how an island will impact the room’s flow.
(Image credit: Plain English)
What color kitchen islands are on trend for 2022?
The kitchen island colors on trend vary depending on your kitchen's look.
For painted kitchens, dark blues and grays are ideal for kitchen islands, helping to add depth to an otherwise plain design. While more modern schemes include burnished metal trims and handles alongside clean white and gray kitchen cabinet ideas.
Look out for an embracing of earthy reds and rich grassy green kitchens. These are paired with burnished brass and soft gold finishes for handles and trim.
Texture is in abundance, too. Fluted cabinetry echoes the fluted glass we’re seeing in designs from companies such as Ledbury Studio – the new company led by kitchen supremo Charlie Smallbone.
Faux marble worktops with waterfall edges encasing an island are also proving increasingly popular, pairing pattern with an easy-to-clean durable surface.
Ailis started out at British GQ, where a month of work experience turned into 18 months of working on all sorts of projects, writing about everything from motorsport to interiors, and helping to put together the GQ Food & Drink Awards.
She then spent three years at the London Evening Standard, covering restaurants and bars. After a period of freelancing, writing about food, drink and homes for publications including Conde Nast Traveller, Luxury London and Departures, she started at Homes & Gardens as a Digital Writer, allowing her to fully indulge her love of good interior design. She is now a fully fledged food PR but still writes for Homes & Gardens as a contributing editor.
With contributions from
- Busola EvansContributing Editor
75 Beautiful Kitchen with with Island Ideas & Designs - October 2022
Mosman
Northern Beaches Kitchens and Bathrooms
Mid-sized contemporary l-shaped open plan kitchen in Sydney with a drop-in sink, flat-panel cabinets, quartz benchtops, metallic splashback, mirror splashback, light hardwood floors, with island, white benchtop, black appliances and beige floor.
Sorrento Residence
David Wilkes Design
This is an example of a mid-sized contemporary galley open plan kitchen in Perth with flat-panel cabinets, medium wood cabinets, quartz benchtops, marble splashback, concrete floors and with island.
South Perth Apartment Project
Western Cabinets
Chunky cloudy concrete tops layered with subtle greys, velvety whites and rich timber floors.....we are loving our #SouthPerthProject ! Can you spot the gin!! We had some fun creating this project. Lots of hidden storage and the perfect spot to entertain guests in this home
Westey 259, Imagine Estate, Strathfieldsaye Victoria
User
Pantry in the Westley 259 from the Alpha Collection by JG King Homes
Large beach style galley kitchen pantry in Melbourne with a single-bowl sink, white cabinets, quartz benchtops, white splashback, ceramic splashback, stainless steel appliances, ceramic floors, with island, beige floor and white benchtop.
Epping House
Justin Loe Architects
Design ideas for a contemporary l-shaped kitchen in Sydney with flat-panel cabinets, white cabinets, window splashback, stainless steel appliances, concrete floors, with island, grey floor and white benchtop.
YORK RESIDENCE
Kitchens by Emanuel
CURVES & TEXTURE - Custom designed & manufactured cabinetry in 'matte black' polyurethane - Large custom curved cabinetry - Feature vertical slates around the island - Curved timber grain floating shelf with recessed LED strip lighting - Large bifold appliance cabinet with timber grain internals - 20mm thick Caesarstone 'Jet Black' benchtop - Feature textured matte black splashback tile - Lo & Co matte black hardware - Blum hardware Sheree Bounassif, Kitchens by Emanuel
Whole House Renovation
Refresh Renovations Melbourne Paul Cree
Mid-sized transitional galley eat-in kitchen in Melbourne with shaker cabinets, white cabinets, laminate benchtops, white splashback, ceramic splashback, white appliances, medium hardwood floors, with island and black benchtop.
Croydon Renovation
Nathalie Scipioni Architects
Design ideas for a contemporary kitchen in Sydney with an undermount sink, flat-panel cabinets, black cabinets, white splashback, stainless steel appliances, concrete floors, with island, grey floor, white benchtop and vaulted.
Californian Bungalow Restoration
Home Builder
Contemporary l-shaped kitchen in Geelong with an undermount sink, flat-panel cabinets, white cabinets, white splashback, stainless steel appliances, light hardwood floors, with island, beige floor and white benchtop.
The Little Brick Studio
Photo of a contemporary galley kitchen in Melbourne with an undermount sink, flat-panel cabinets, white cabinets, window splashback, medium hardwood floors, with island, brown floor and white benchtop.
Brighton East Kitchen, Library, Laundry & Bathrooms
The Kitchen Design Centre
This is an example of a mid-sized contemporary kitchen in Melbourne with flat-panel cabinets, black cabinets, quartz benchtops, white splashback, porcelain splashback, black appliances, with island, beige floor, grey benchtop, a double-bowl sink and light hardwood floors.
Cremorne Family Home
Brodware
Cremorne Family Home by March Twice Interiors.
Featuring our Manhattan fixtures in Brushed Nordic Brass PVD. Photography: Ryan Linnegar
Design ideas for a transitional kitchen in Sydney with a farmhouse sink, beige splashback, porcelain splashback, with island and white benchtop.
Kitchen with Poly Satin White Duck doors
Nouvelle Kitchens & Bathrooms
Design ideas for a contemporary l-shaped kitchen in Sydney with a drop-in sink, flat-panel cabinets, white cabinets, stainless steel appliances, medium hardwood floors, with island, brown floor and white benchtop.
Kay Project
Improva
Photo of a large beach style l-shaped open plan kitchen in Sydney with an undermount sink, shaker cabinets, white cabinets, quartzite benchtops, blue splashback, ceramic splashback, stainless steel appliances, concrete floors, with island, grey floor and grey benchtop.
Snead Boulevard
Oak Living
This is an example of a beach style single-wall eat-in kitchen in Melbourne with an undermount sink, white splashback, stainless steel appliances, with island, white benchtop and vaulted.
Yungaburra House
neil design
Kitchen Island with 40mm Engineered Stone worktop, timber framework and VJ panel detail. Glossy white island bench contrasts boldly against the matt black full height cabinetry behind. Timber accent details, and under cabinet lighting highlight feature elements.
Transitional Kitchen
Design ideas for a transitional galley open plan kitchen in Newcastle - Maitland with a drop-in sink, shaker cabinets, white cabinets, black appliances, medium hardwood floors, with island, brown floor and grey benchtop.
Alpha 18 - Marsden Park
MOJO Homes
The Alpha 18 is the big brother of the Alpha 17- a perfectly sized 4 Bedroom home with plenty of space for MORE. Recipient of an MBA Excellence in Building award in 2020, this design is truly a crowd favourite. The Master Suite is located at the front with a generous Walk-In Robe and Ensuite, followed by three Bedrooms and a generous open plan Kitchen/Dining/Living for simple entertaining.
Possibilities are endless in the Alpha 18. Why not include a luxurious Lounge in lieu of Bedroom 4? This design is perfect for all members of the family to enjoy their own space. This spacious home design is made for making memories and is everything you need for Living Passionately!
Kitchen Island: 90 Kitchen Island Design Ideas with Photo
Kitchen Island, as you might guess from the name, is a working module, independent of the rest of the kitchen furniture. This layout has many advantages: you can approach the working area from any side, cook at once with the whole family, and the usable area of \u200b\u200bthe kitchen increases. Here you can place not only a cooking area, but also storage shelves, a sink, a hob. The design of the kitchen island can be very different - our selection of ideas will allow you to feel all the delights of island life.
Johnny Gray Studios.
1. Smooth corners
Due to the fact that the corners are smoothed, there is much less space for walking around.
Such a kitchen island made it possible to free up more space for the actual kitchen set.
Read more about the project with photo:
Artistic project in London Townhouse
J Witzel Interior Design
2. All the shelves
hung shelves usually “eat” the place and the mess at them is very stripped. In this kitchen, an island was used to store dishes and kitchen utensils, inside of which everything you need is located.
Garde Hvalsoe
3. Everything in sight
Don't be put off by the open shelves inside the kitchen island - the color and shape of the dishes placed there can create a rhythmic pattern of the room.
Roundhouse
Redesign London Limited
6. Display
The open shelves inside the kitchen island can be decorative. Here you can build "showcases" in which indoor plants, vases of flowers and other decorations will be located.
Peden & Pringle Ltd
7. Multifunctional approach
Kitchen islands can be integrated with appliances such as a microwave, oven, dishwasher and even a wine cooler.
Adam Chandler Ltd
8. Spell
U-shaped kitchen island is very spacious: cupboards for storing dishes, a cooking area, a bar can be easily located here. But for this option, you will need a fairly spacious kitchen so that you can freely approach the island.
Yuri Grishko
9. Inhabited island
In this small Moscow apartment (27 sq.m) there was simply no place for a full-fledged kitchen. Everything you need for cooking is contained in a kitchen island with a photo, household appliances are inside the stairs.
MORE ABOUT THE PROJECT WITH PHOTO:
Tiny loft in the apartment of a designer girl
Die Wohnplaner GmbH
Guests and family members will be able to sit around and watch the cooking process.
J.A.S. Design-Build
11. Straightforward
Choosing a kitchen island sink depends on your needs and possibilities. If there is no dishwasher and the dimensions of the kitchen allow, install a spacious sink.
SEE ALSO…
Which sink to choose for your kitchen and why?
Neptune by Donndorf Weimar (D) I by 3F Zürich (CH)
12. In the solids
If the sink and hob are next to each other on the kitchen island, take care of the insulation in advance: moisture must not get on the electrics.
Hill Farm Furniture Ltd
13. Unbearable lightness
Kitchen island hob requires extractor fan. The designers of this kitchen have found an alternative to heavy models - an extractor hood disguised as a chandelier.
Read more about the project with photo:
New Country MEBLE with a limited budget
JaureGui Architecture Interiors Construction
14.
The thorough approach is the ideal option for the cuisine in the rustic style-solid kitchen, with solid wood, with ardent. legs and drawers for storage, as well as with a high table top.
Hopedale Builders, Inc.
15. Natural product
Rustic style implies a combination of natural materials - wood, metal, stone - as in this example.
SEE ALSO…
Quiz: Which Style of Kitchen Would You Like
Paul Craig Photography
16. Expanding Your Horizons
Don't be afraid to mix things up. In this London apartment, the modern kitchen nook is expanded with a long Victorian table.
SUBU Design Architecture
17. Loft style
This kitchen island is a good example of loft style. Its legs are made from waste water pipes, the tabletop is from old boards.
Chalet
18.
Unity of opposites
The kitchen island in the photo is made in contrast: marble top, wooden base.
SEE ALSO…
Hardware: Kitchen worktop overview
LPASSE DESIGN
19. Provence
The kitchen island in this French home is made from rough metal counters, zinc countertops, old boards. The boards were selected individually: the drawing of each of them had to become part of the overall composition.
MORE ABOUT THE PROJECT WITH PHOTO:
In Provence, a tree of honor
Yvonne McFadden LLC
20. At a height of
The first option is convenient for cooking.
Lauren Levant Interior
21. Getting fit
In this example, the kitchen island is not the usual rectangular shape. It follows the shape of the wood from which the countertop is made.
Altius Design Group
22. Celestial body
The crescent-shaped kitchen island is multifunctional: the outside serves as a dining area, while the inside serves as a work area.
BARRETT STUDIO architects
23. Fit in the circle
The whole island or just the tabletop can be made with a crescent moon. The latter option is more economical, since a rectangular base is more common.
John Kraemer & Sons
24. In the spotlight
The work area is best placed in the center of the kitchen island so that guests and household can watch the cooking process like a performance on stage.
Treyone
25. Stand firmly on your feet
The highlight of this kitchen island is the unfinished solid wood legs.
Martha O'Hara Interiors
26.
Highlights
A discreet kitchen island can stand out: upholstered bar stools set the right accents.
SEE ALSO…
How to choose fabric for new upholstery
27. Purity of experiment
Since the working and dining areas are combined on the kitchen island, it is necessary to provide an exhaust hood above the hob. It must be the same or larger than the panel size.
Matt Podesta
28. Size matters
If the island hood is smaller than the hob, there is a good chance that grease will settle on the kitchen island.
29. Passing moment
It is also important to set the correct width of the passages between the kitchen island and the set. To ensure that nothing interferes with your movements, they should be at least 1-1.2 m.
Kim Duffin for Sublime Luxury Kitchens & Bathrooms
30. Keep level
A kitchen island can have a multi-level structure: the work area should be on the same level as the kitchen set, and the dining area should be slightly higher.
Brayer Design
31. Lifebuoy
A round or oval kitchen table is best, even if the island itself is rectangular.
Orchid Newton ltd
32. Separately
The kitchen table can be either integrated into the island or stand alone. In this example, a notch has been made for it in the island.
Russell Taylor Architects
33. Mirror Reflection
The designers of this London kitchen used mirrors to design the island. So the room was filled with additional, reflected light.
MORE ABOUT THE PROJECT WITH PHOTO:
Metamorphoses of the King George Hospital
Kitchen Architecture Ltd
In this kitchen, it is only needed at night. During the day, the room is filled with light from the top and side windows.
Roundhouse
35.
High level
It is better to pick up bar stools for the island table - as the height of the island is focused on cooking, which takes place while standing.
Paul Craig Photography
36. A level below
In this example, the designers, on the contrary, placed the table below the level of the working area. The table top is built into the drawers of the island at the usual table height.
37. Light at different levels
The dining area in this kitchen island is higher than the working area: this difference is reflected in the height of the pendant lights.
38. Three in one
This kitchen island consists of three modules of different heights - table, work area and shelving. This gives dynamics to an overly homogeneous interior.
Alexander White
39. Flow
The kitchen island can flow seamlessly into the dining table, just like in this Stockholm home.
Julia Solovieva | Studio SJull
40. Mobile bar counter
In this Moscow apartment, the kitchen island is complemented by a mobile bar counter made of wood, which can be pulled out only when necessary.
Design: Julia Solovieva
Wiedemann Werkstätten
MCDESIGN
42. Mobile version
In the kitchen there is a risk of constantly bumping into chairs and hitting them. Stools are more compact and mobile.
SEE ALSO…
Stool as a compact alternative to everything
The Brooklyn Home Company
43. Save space
The stool fits easily under the kitchen island - a real find for a small kitchen.
Emilie Castille-Architecture Intérieure&Décoration
44.
We sit well
The length of the island table top is usually made at the rate of 60 cm per seater.
45. Get down to business
In this Berlin home, the staircase flows into the kitchen island countertop, creating a striking white accent.
mo+ architekten
46. Convertible island
This convertible island with sliding bench saves space in the kitchen.
SEE ALSO…
Basement kitchen? - Why not!
Artichoke
47. Two is better
Well, if the dimensions of the kitchen allow, why limit yourself to one island? They can be divided functionally: make a working area on one, and a dining area on the other.
R.Z.Owens Constructions
48. Multi-directional lighting
Guided track lights are ideal for creating local lighting on a kitchen island.
You can alternate different lighting scenarios, highlighting a particular area.
FTF interior
49. A winning combination
You can combine different types of kitchen island lighting: spots for the work area, pendants for the dining area.
Design: FTF Interior
Breathe Architecture
50. Broken lines
The shape of this kitchen island echoes the backsplash pattern: broken lines, transitions from light to dark.
Read more about the project with photo:
Space Transformations in Cozy House
Go to the next page
Aleksandra Fedorova Bureau
51. Hide from the eyes
in this Moscow cuisine all household appliances are hidden from prying eyes: large - in the cabinets, the smaller one - in the kitchen island.
MORE ABOUT THE PROJECT WITH PHOTO:
Smart glass, suspended wall and snow-white minimalism
Luigi Rosselli Architects
You can achieve this effect with small means: for example, choosing the same dark color for the floor and the base of the kitchen island.
Jane Howell Interiors
53. From any direction
The convenience of a kitchen island is that you can approach it from any direction, you are free to move while cooking.
Lucy G Printed Image Splashbacks
54. Work triangle
The main thing is that the island helps to create the right work triangle : you can take food from the refrigerator, wash/cut, and then cook on the hob.
Architectural workshop za bor
55. Individual approach
Your individuality should be visible in everything.
The owner of this Moscow apartment, an architect, designed and implemented the kitchen island project himself.
MORE ABOUT THE PROJECT WITH PHOTO:
Mobile space by architect Petr Zaitsev
Esther Hershcovich
not necessary.
Sustainable Kitchens
57. Driving!
In small kitchens, the island may not be stationary, but mobile, on wheels. It is easy to slide in when not in use.
aegis interior design ltd
Incorporated
59. Nice addition
The island on wheels can be moved up to the kitchen countertop at any time, thereby expanding the work area space.
Arciform
60. Plus one
The kitchen island on wheels can consist of several modules, the combinations of which will depend on the work to be done.
Colin Cadle Photography
61. Multitasking
Kitchen island on wheels can perform several functions in addition to the main one. For example, its can be used as a coffee table or serving trolley.
Bruce Kading Interior Design
62. Small and bold
A big kitchen doesn't have to have a big island: there should be just enough space for the cutting area.
Paris-Bruxelles
Webb & Brown-Neaves
64. Through fire, water and copper pipes
Remember that if you plan to use a kitchen island with a sink or stove, you will have to slightly raise the floor to connect the communications.
THE GOOD GUYS
65. Young and green
In this Australian home, greenery grows right on the kitchen island: a special opening in the countertop was provided for this at the design stage.
66. Back support
In this example, the kitchen island not only separates the work area from the dining area, but also serves as a backrest for the bench.
Fast Forward Unlimited
67. Top of the line
The island's L-shape made it possible to combine it with the kitchen nook. The only drawback is that the guests will sit with their backs to the cook.
68. Pure truth
When combining the island and the kitchen sofa, it is important to provide protection against steam and grease - for example, make a good hood. As an option - removable covers that can be washed.
SEE ALSO…
Sitting Well: How to rethink the kitchen nook
Blakes London
69. Contrast
A kitchen island can be a bright accent if you don't have the courage to use bright colors throughout the kitchen.
Melton Design Build
70.
Everything in moderation
But you need to be careful with catchy details, otherwise there is a risk of overkill. But in this neutral kitchen, an island with bright tiles does not look too flashy.
Carole Hunter Home Design
71. Like a canvas
The designer of this kitchen was inspired by Mondrian's canvases and the idea of primary colors. But not just copying his work, but trying to achieve color balance.
MORE ABOUT THE PROJECT WITH PHOTO:
Mondrian-inspired kitchen
Markus Hierhager Innenarchitektur
73. Breaking stereotypes
A black and white palette is by no means a boring solution: play with shapes, lines, levels.
SUPERGRAU
74. Make it dark
Black is said to reduce space. However, he is also able to make even a very simple interior expensive and status.
Jan Showers
Australian Interior Design Awards
76. All-metal shell
This kitchen island's steel façade is a dramatic but impractical option: scratches are inevitable.
Design By Us Interior
77. Valuable item
The kitchen island's golden finish does not look outrageous or out of place in this simple interior: it harmonizes with parquet and hangings.
mckimm residential design
Standal Interiorismo + Reforma Integral
79. Maximum load
In this Barcelona apartment, the kitchen island is multifunctional: there is a stove, extractor hood, refrigerator and even a radiator. And on the back side, in the closet, is hidden ... a study.
MORE ABOUT THE PROJECT WITH PHOTO:
Modular space in bright colors
Look Design Group
80.
Working time
A small working area can be located on the kitchen island itself. Just provide protection against splashes, steam and grease.
LATOON / BRASS design office
81. Artificial selection
Kitchen island LED lighting doesn't always look cold. With its help, you can create a very cozy atmosphere, as in this Yekaterinburg apartment.
MORE ABOUT THE PROJECT WITH PHOTO:
50 shades of white and the play of artificial light
Roundhouse
82. LED strip
In addition to the main illumination of the working area of the island, try local lighting of the island. For example, experiment with an LED strip like in this example.
Read also ...
Light force: what do you really need to know about the backlight
MAL Corboy Design
IMPALA KITCHOROMS
BUTler Architects
85.
Foreign Combine Japanese style: nothing superfluous and random, only necessary and simple furniture. Kitchen island - no sharp corners, only smooth lines and shapes.
Ashgrove Kitchens
86. In full sail
You can approach the design of the kitchen in an original way: choose an island in the form of a ship, on the mast of which you will place shelves, and in the hold - sections for storage.
DiMauro Architects, Inc.
87. Full speed ahead
The ship-island can cause difficulties. For example, special bar stools were selected for this kitchen, repeating the shape of the side.
Space Fitting Furniture Ltd
88. Atypical shape
The atypical shape of the kitchen island - without corners, smoothly flowing from the working area to the dining area - will save space.
Paul Craig Photography
89.
Flying Saucer
The sterile white color of the flying saucer-like island blends well with the cosmic interior of this kitchen.
Charlotte Raynaud Studio - Design & Espaces
50 Kitchen Island Design Ideas / Gvozd Furniture Studio
11/11/2016
The kitchen island, as you might guess from the name, is a working unit independent of the rest of the kitchen furniture. This layout has many advantages: you can approach the working area from any side, cook at once with the whole family, and the usable area of \u200b\u200bthe kitchen increases. Here you can place not only a cooking area, but also storage shelves, a sink, a hob. The design of the kitchen island can be very different - our selection of ideas will allow you to feel all the delights of island life.
Click on the first image and open it in the maximum size. Full-screen mode with flipping images will allow you to concentrate on viewing.
Near the photos you will find a brief description of the techniques and materials used, and the green labels in the pictures contain additional information about the items in this interior. If you have any questions for the author of the project with a photo, feel free to ask them: the green link "ask a question about this photo" is located in the lower right corner of any frame. And offer your options in the comments below the article.
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1. Smooth corners
The designer of this kitchen principally chose a kitchen island with rounded corners. Thus freed up more space for the workspace.
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2. All right
Hanging shelves "eat up" the space. In this kitchen, an island was used to store dishes and kitchen utensils, inside of which everything you need is located.
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3. All in sight
Don't let the open shelves inside the kitchen island scare you - the color and shape of the utensils located there can create a rhythmic pattern of the room.
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4. Add lightness
Large kitchen islands (as in the photo) sometimes look cumbersome. You can make them visually lighter by equipping open shelves ...
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5. Buffet Island
... or shelves with glass doors, like a sideboard.
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6. Showcase
Open shelves inside the kitchen island can be decorative.
Here you can build "showcases" in which indoor plants, vases of flowers and other decorations will be located.
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7. Multifunctional approach
Inside the kitchen island, you can integrate household appliances such as a microwave, oven, dishwasher and even a wine cooler.
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8. Spell
The U-shaped kitchen island is very spacious: cabinets for storing dishes, a cooking area, a bar can easily be located here. But for this option, you will need a fairly spacious kitchen so that you can freely approach the island.
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9. Inhabited island
In this small apartment (27 sq.m) there was simply no place for a full-fledged kitchen.
Everything you need for cooking is contained in a kitchen island with a photo, household appliances are inside the stairs.
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10. Center of gravity
The kitchen island can become the center of the kitchen, it can be emphasized by the location or light. Guests and family members will be able to sit around and watch the cooking process.
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11. Clean
Choosing a sink for a kitchen island depends on your needs and possibilities. If there is no dishwasher and the dimensions of the kitchen allow, install a spacious sink.
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12. Bottom line
If the sink and hob are next to each other on the kitchen island, take care of the insulation in advance: moisture should not get on the electrics.
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13. Unbearable lightness
The kitchen island hob requires an extractor fan. The designers of this kitchen have found an alternative to heavy models - an extractor hood disguised as a chandelier.
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Ideal for a rustic kitchen, a solid kitchen island, with massive wooden legs and storage drawers, as well as a high countertop.
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15. Natural product
Rustic style involves a combination of natural materials - wood, metal, stone - as in this example.
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16.
Expanding horizons
Do not be afraid of unusual combinations. In this London apartment, the modern kitchen nook is expanded with a long Victorian table.
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17. Loft style
This kitchen island is a good example of loft-style decor. Its legs are made from waste water pipes, the tabletop is from old boards.
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18. Unity of opposites
The kitchen island in the photo is made in contrast: the countertop is made of marble, the base is made of wood.
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19. Provence
The kitchen island in this French home is made from rough metal counters, zinc countertops, and old planks. The boards were selected individually: the drawing of each of them had to become part of the overall composition.
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20. High
The height of the kitchen island can be made flush with the kitchen countertop (as in the photo) or higher. The first option is convenient for cooking.
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21. Be fit
In this example, the kitchen island is not the usual rectangular shape. It follows the shape of the wood from which the countertop is made.
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22. Celestial body
The crescent-shaped kitchen island is multifunctional: the outer part serves as a dining area, and the inner part serves as a work area.
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23.
Fit in the circle
The whole island or just the tabletop can be made with a crescent moon. The latter option is more economical, since a rectangular base is more common.
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24. Spotlight
It is better to place the working area in the center of the kitchen island so that guests and household members can watch the cooking process like a performance on stage.
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25. Stand strong
The highlight of this kitchen island is the legs made from raw solid wood.
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26. Highlights
A discreet kitchen island can be distinguished: the upholstery of bar stools will set the right accents.
Save
27.
Purity of experiment
Since the working and dining areas are combined on the kitchen island, it is necessary to provide an extractor hood above the hob. It must be the same or larger than the panel size.
Save
28. Size matters
If the island hood is smaller than the hob, then there is a high chance that grease will settle on the kitchen island.
Save
29. Passing torque
It is also important to lay the correct width of the aisles between the kitchen island and the set. So that nothing interferes with your movements, they must be at least 1-1.2 m. The kitchen island can have a multi-level design: the working area should be flush with the kitchen set, the dining area should be slightly higher.
Save
31.
Lifebuoy
It is preferable to choose a round or oval kitchen table - even if the island itself is rectangular.
Save
32. Individually
The kitchen table can be either integrated into the island or stand alone. In this example, a notch has been made for it in the island.
Save
33. Mirror
The designers of this London kitchen used mirrors to decorate the island. So the room was filled with additional, reflected light.
Save
34. Light show
The kitchen island, as a rule, requires separate lighting. In this kitchen, it is only needed at night. During the day, the room is filled with light from the top and side windows.
Save
35. High
It is better to pick up bar stools for the island table - since the height of the island is focused on cooking, which takes place while standing.
Save
36. Below
In this example, the designers, on the contrary, placed the table below the level of the working area. The table top is built into the drawers of the island at the usual table height.
Save
37. Light at different levels
The dining area in this kitchen island is taller than the work area: this difference is reflected in the height of the pendant lights.
Save
38.
Three in one
This kitchen island consists of three modules of different heights - a table, a work area and a shelving unit. This gives dynamics to an overly homogeneous interior.
Save
39. Overflow
The kitchen island can seamlessly “flow” into the dining table, as in this Stockholm home.
Save
40. Mobile bar counter
In this Moscow apartment, the kitchen island is complemented by a mobile bar counter made of wood, which can be pulled out only when necessary.
Save
41. Simplicity of forms
The extreme simplicity of form in this Munich kitchen calls for an island to match, with a concrete countertop, wooden base and benches instead of chairs.
Save
42 Mobile
In the kitchen, there is a risk of constantly bumping into chairs, touching them. Stools are more compact and mobile.
Save
43. Save space
The stool fits easily under the kitchen island - a real find for a small kitchen.
Save
44. We sit well
The length of the table top of the island table is usually made at the rate of 60 cm per seater.
Save
45. Get down to business
In this Berlin home, the staircase flows into the countertop of the kitchen island, creating a bright accent on the white.
Save
46. Transformer Island
Such a transforming island - with a retractable bench - saves space in the kitchen.
Save
47. And two is better
Well, if the dimensions of the kitchen allow, why limit yourself to one island? They can be divided functionally: make a working area on one, and a dining area on the other.
Save
Track lights with guides are ideal for creating local lighting for a kitchen island. You can alternate different lighting scenarios, highlighting a particular area.
Save
49. Winning combination
You can combine different types of kitchen island lighting: spots for the work area, suspensions for the dining area.
