Pics of kitchen islands with seating


55 Beautiful Kitchen Island Ideas with Layouts, Size Tips & More

In our home, the kitchen island is the heart of our kitchen.  It’s where we gather for buffet-style family dinners, work on our laptops, connect with friends over a cup of coffee, and celebrate all the big and little moments. 

So whether you’re planning a simple kitchen refresh or a complete makeover, today I’m sharing advice for designing the perfect kitchen island for your home. 

You’ll find tips for choosing the right kitchen island size and height, kitchen island lighting options, bar stool tips, kitchen island cabinet ideas, and images of kitchen layouts with an island.

Studio McGee – cane counter stools – pendant lights

Kitchen Island Cabinets Design, Lighting, Size, and Countertops

Kitchen island size tips

For maximum function and beauty, the size of the island should be in proportion to the size of your kitchen.  For larger kitchens or a kitchen layout with extra space, you might want to consider incorporating one big island — or even two smaller islands.

For a small island design, the minimum size would be 2 feet wide by 4 feet long. If your kitchen isn’t big enough to accommodate a small kitchen island, portable kitchen islands are a great way to add functionality and work space to small kitchens. 

Here are a few freestanding kitchen islands and islands on wheels to add style, storage and prep space to a small space:

Portable Kitchen Island Ideas:

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To maximize your space, most kitchen designers recommend allowing at least 4 feet from the edge of the perimeter counters to the island’s edge to provide enough room for moving around and easy access for opening the dishwasher. 

To give you an idea of what size and shape of island or breakfast bar would work best in your kitchen, I recommend using painter’s tape on the floor to help you visualize different sizes and configurations to optimize the traffic flow through your kitchen and any adjacent spaces.

For kitchen islands with seating, it’s a good idea to allow at least 10 inches of counter overhang to provide enough space for comfortable seating as well as dining room.

Kitchen island lighting

When planning your kitchen design or renovation, make sure to include adequate lighting over the island for tasks and ambience, remembering that some light fixtures (especially metal cone and dome type fixtures) will only direct light downward and not outward. 

Kitchen Island Lighting Ideas:

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See my post Kitchen Island Pendant Lighting Ideas for how high to hang lighting over your kitchen island.

Height for bar stools or counter stools

Most stock cabinets, as well as custom kitchen islands, are 36 inches from the floor to the top of the counter, but if you prefer high bar stool seating, rather than counter stools, you might want to go to 42 inches high.

Kitchen Island Bar Stool and Counter Stool Ideas:

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See my post on Choosing the Right Counter Stools and Barstools for Your Kitchen for more tips.

Kitchen island countertops

If you plan to use your island for food preparation, work, dining, or craft projects, you will want to consider counter space as well. In addition, for the perfect island, choose a durable, stain- and heat-resistant surface like quartz, quartzite, or porcelain.

The island top is also a great way to incorporate a wood butcher block countertop in your kitchen space.

Kitchen island base cabinets, additions and extras

You might want to include a base cabinet microwave drawer, a prep sink, a wine fridge, corbels, or open shelving for cookbooks and extra storage.

Kitchen Island Cabinet Design and Layout Ideas

Whether you’re planning a full kitchen remodel or renovation, want to make your existing kitchen island cabinets design more functional, or would simply like to update your existing kitchen space with new lighting, rugs, or barstools, below you’ll find some of the best kitchen island ideas, including curved islands, open shelves, color palettes, details and trim work, kitchen layouts with an island, seating configurations, and more.

Here’s an oversized kitchen island, with abundant island seating, storage, and workspace, eliminates the need for a separate kitchen table.  From The Life Styled Co. –  counter stool source – similar options here, here and here.

I love this kitchen layout from Jean Stoffer Interior Design – the curved countertop provides a focal point!  Here is a source for those beautiful pendant lights.

Kitchen island cabinets can also incorporate open shelving and island seating.  From Whittney Parkinson Design.

The great thing about this large kitchen island cabinets design is the abundant seating, as well as extra storage space and room for food preparation.  From Pure Salt Interiors.

 

The Shaker Kitchen Company

 

AGK Design Studio – island color is Sherwin Williams Smoky Candle, SW 8633

Love this beautiful kitchen design featuring a large kitchen island with abundant storage and stylish modern bar stools.  From Pure Salt Interior Design.

 

Erin Kestenbaum – cabinet and island color is Harbor by Cliq Studios

 

Studio McGee

 

Life on Virginia Street – kitchen island cabinet color is Providence Blue (we have the same light fixture in our kitchen)

 

Bryan and Sarah Baeumler – light fixtures

 

Vivir Design, via Instagram – light fixtures

 

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Studio McGee

 

Pure Salt Interiors – counter stools

 

Whittney Parkinson Design – light fixtures

 

Ali Henrie Design – pendant lights – similar rug

 

Studio McGee – counter stools

 

Rehabitat Interiors

 

Style by Emily Henderson – kitchen island cabinets are Pewter Green by Sherwin Williams

 

Pure Salt Interiors – Seaside Abode Project

 

This beautiful kitchen island would be a great place to gather. I love those pendant lights!  From Studio McGee.

 

Amber Interior Design

This large kitchen features double kitchen islands with plenty of space for prep work. From M Elle Design.

A light and airy modern kitchen layout from Pure Salt Interiors:

Pure Salt Interiors

 

Anthology Interiors

A lovely modern kitchen design with woven light fixtures from The Life Styled Co. 

Here’s another view of the kitchen island layout and overall kitchen design, showing the waterfall countertop.  From The Life Styled Co.

A unique kitchen island cabinets design and layout from Tribe Design Group.

A lovely two-toned kitchen with a dark island and white cabinets and pendant lights from Studio McGee.

A beautiful modern coastal kitchen with striking pendant lights and woven counter stools on two sides of the kitchen island.  From Salt Design Company.

Love the contrast of the dark island and light cabinets in this beautiful design from Kate Lester Interiors.

A beautiful classic kitchen design with added storage in the kitchen island cabinets.  From Livingston Interiors – (featuring my favorite counter stools):

A beautiful modern kitchen design with a waterfall countertop on the island.  From Studio McGee.

An elegant California kitchen with classic white kitchen island cabinets and lovely woven counter stools.  Design by Kelly Nutt Design. 

A light-filled kitchen with shiplap detail on the island and striking brass pendant lights, from Bria Hammel Interiors.

I love the inset cabinets on the left-hand side of this beautiful island from Pure Salt Interiors.

pendant lights | woven counter stools

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An extra-long kitchen island layout with amazing pendant lights.  Design by Kate Marker Interiors.

Warm woods and lovely coastal-inspired kitchen island lights enhance this beautiful kitchen design from Park and Oak Interior Design.

Here’s another view of the beautiful Park and Oak kitchen island cabinets design shown above.

I love the kitchen island lighting, counter stools, and layout in this beautiful kitchen design from Studio McGee and Erin Hansen for Christine Andrew.  Photo by Lucy Call.

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Beautiful black kitchen island cabinets enhance this wonderful design from The House of Silver Lining.

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Rattan counter stools provide comfortable island seating in this beautiful kitchen from Lindye Galloway Interiors.

Love this elegant and efficient kitchen island cabinets design from Susana Simonpietri of Chango & Co., via Architectural Digest.

I love the deep countertop and lower storage solution in this beautiful blue kitchen island from Amber Interior Design.

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A beautiful modern farmhouse kitchen with shiplap detail on the island cabinets, black countertops and woven counter stools.   From Two Hawks Designs.

Love the open shelving at the end of the island, as well as the pendant lights, in this wonderful kitchen by Studio McGee.

Unique shelving enhances this beautiful kitchen island from Sam Sacks, via House and Home.

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Love the black waterfall countertop and kitchen island lights in this kitchen design from Millworks.

This beautiful design, with its blue kitchen island cabinets and double island layout, inspired our kitchen remodel – from Hibou Design & Company.

Love the warm wood island and glass and brass pendant lights in this kitchen design from Rita Chan Interiors.

Love the rug, the lighting, the light wood kitchen island cabinets, the grey cabinets, and the beams.  From Kate Marker Interiors, via Becki Owens.

A beautiful timeless kitchen with an amazing view, from Marianne Simon Design.

An amazing light-filled kitchen layout with island and dining space from The Grove Byron Bay.

Gorgeous warm wood cabinetry enhances this modern kitchen layout from Mowery Marsh Architects.

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A kitchen island brings functionality and beauty to the heart of the home that will never go out of style.

I know we spend more time at our kitchen island than just about anywhere else in our home, so I hope this post gave you some ideas for your own dream kitchen. Let me know if you have any questions! xo Jane

For more design inspiration, kitchen layouts with an island, and kitchen lighting and decor, here are a few favorite related posts from the blog:

A Simple Guide to Standard Kitchen Cabinet Dimensions

Beautiful Kitchen Island Lighting Ideas

Beautiful Kitchen Design Ideas to Inspire Your Next Renovation

Where to Find Affordable Vintage Turkish Oushak Runners for the Kitchen

How to Choose the Best Kitchen Counter Stools for Your Space

Beautiful Kitchen Backsplash Ideas: Perfect for White Kitchens and More

Sunny Breakfast Nook Ideas for Casual Kitchen Dining

Our Kitchen Remodel, With Cabinet Painting Cost and Sources

Modern Coastal Decorating Ideas for Your Home

Favorite Spaces of the Week: Pure Salt Interiors

How to Add a Touch of Nancy Meyers Style to Your Kitchen and Home

   

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37 Large Kitchen Islands with Seating (Pictures)

This gallery features large kitchen islands with seating. An eat-in kitchen island is a great way to bring the family closer together during meal times as well as provide an amazing spot for entertaining guests.

Kitchen islands come in different styles such as breakfast bars with an elevated counter top, or an island with a counter overhang to accommodate diners. They also come in a variety of shapes and sizes from curved, semi-circle designs, custom shapes, square or rectangular designs. Below are some gorgeous kitchens with islands big enough to offer space for seating and eat-in dining.

In the picture above generous use of beautiful Bianco Carrara marble can be seen on the breakfast bar-island as well as the kitchen counter top and back splash. The traditional style of the kitchen is even seen on the elegant styling of the range hood, with stone tile cladding and stylish light fixtures. The counter stools as well as the base of the breakfast bar-island uses a rich mahogany that gives some warmth to the space. Wood treatment can also be seen on the exposed ceiling beams as well as the wooden floor boards.

Table of Contents

Kitchen Islands can come in really handy for open space layouts. But the process of designing island seating can be somewhat an overwhelming process if you do not know the right step. The reality of deciding on the essential elements requires knowledge and the article will make sure to leave you with an understanding of varieties of island seating.

As a rule of thumb, analyzing the layout of the kitchen space is of importance. This leads you to ponder on the quantity of consumers and the estimated usage time along with their circulation pattern. This, in return helps you to understand to create the bigger picture on landing to a decision approximately.

However, thinking few years ahead of time will help to last the design in advance. As the National Kitchen and Bath Association refers a gap of 36″ should be left on all sides of a kitchen island. The seating will require more space along with living and walking space.

Kitchen island seating can vary according to the layout. For an example, seating along one side or on both side are pretty usual. Kitchen island seating can be served on three sides for large islands. The short ends are used to allocate space with a long end. Sometimes, as a strategy of saving space island seating can be transferred to a corner in the kitchen.

Kitchen Island seating also varies in height. The bar height, counter height and the table height are a few examples. The design options are often used considering the functionality.

For example, a two tier island with a higher breakfast bar counter top offers options for dine in or a general food prep work space for those of differing heights. Adopting a table top high seating may be ideal for seating with chairs, however be considered too low for a tall cook to prepare food effectively.

The seating is divided in two preferable options either stools or chairs. Stools can be a great tactic of space saving whilst chairs serve in functionality.

Large kitchen Island with seating doesn’t only have to serve its functional purpose, but can be worked together as a decorative element as well.

Upholstery that is being used for chairs and stools can add up the spice of the interior layout. The color scheme and the texture of the upholstery should be of concern to tally with the rest of the fabric within the interior. The materials that are used to build the chairs or the stools has its own voice when it is put in the interior.

Another crucial point when considering kitchen islands with bar seating is to go for a better combination of color and material for the seating. Consider whether your preference is to have backrest chairs for your family. Often many guests prefer stools that are convenient and less space consuming built by a wooden or metal material.

It is always important that you identify you need and understand the vibe that the space demands, so that it will be easier to land for the options of seating in your preference.

Kitchen Island with Seating for One

A kitchen island with seating for one is great for those who want to enlist the help of a sous chef or just hang out with your significant other while you cook.

While the footprint of this luxury kitchen is huge the large island only provides seating for one comfortably.

Large Kitchen Island with Seating for Two

The Meridian gray Quartz counter island makes effective use of the chrome bar stools and modern pendant light hung above it by really accenting the contemporary look of this kitchen design. The diagonal herringbone tiling pattern of the gray and white back splash is a creative way to accent the back wall. The use of dark wood cabinetry contrasts with the tan porcelain floor tiles used.

Kitchen island with bead-board cabinet and white granite countertop

Large kitchen islands such as this one often service U-shaped kitchens to provide convenient and accessible counter space anywhere in the room. The Bianco Catalina granite used for the kitchen island has a muted high-end elegance that goes extremely well with the rest of the design elements in the room. The choice of the warm white under-shelf lighting, the porcelain back splash tiles, and the glass pendant lights are smart design choices that complement the white shaker cabinets in the room.

Kitchen with island and peninsula

This beautiful kitchen design features an island with room for two to eat side by side as well as a long peninsula to accommodate additional guests. A bright informal dining area with plenty of natural light creates an inviting space for a morning coffee or breakfast.

This luxury kitchen uses carved wooden cabinetry and kitchen islands, high coffered ceilings, glass chandeliers, and Pental Kozmus satin granite counters to really give the room a high-end sophisticated feel. The polished wooden flooring serve to ground the whites and tans of the paneled kitchen cabinetry, while the dark brown finish of the central breakfast bar serves to contrast it entirely.

Kitchen Island with Seating For Three

Here’s our gallery of kitchen islands with eat in dining for three guests.

White granite counter island with seating for three diners

The long mosaic tile back splash of this Neo-traditional kitchen design goes exceedingly well with the Blizzard granite used on the kitchen counter and the breakfast bar island counter top. The white paneled cabinetry and crown moldings seem to complement the sleek styles of the kitchen island pendant lights, stainless steel surfaces of the kitchen appliances, and modern look and upholstery of the leather breakfast bar seats. This is a good example of modern and traditional mixed together.

Transitional kitchen island with gray cabinet and white granite

The square proportions of this gray kitchen really give this room a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere. The breakfast bar island uses a River White granite surface that goes well with the patterned tile back splashes used for the kitchen counters. The gray porcelain tiles of the floor complement the plain gray paint treatment of the walls and ceiling. Ample lighting is provided by the single-hung windows, contemporary pendant lights, and various pin lights on the ceiling. The Rasmussen bar stool with cushion is also a sleek furniture choice for this space.

White marble kitchen island with white leather bar stool seating

The white cabinetry of the kitchen is offset by the different shades of gray on the back splash, the stainless steel finishes of the kitchen appliances, as well as the splash of warm brown from the weathered oak wood floor boards. The white leather bar stool seating goes well with the Calacatta Carrara marble counter top of the kitchen island. The glass pendant lights also add a sleekness to the overall design of the space.

Stainless steel kitchen island with rattan bar stools

The plaid floor pattern has a unique design that incorporates a black and white color scheme to truly let the red color of the cabinet and stainless steel-top island counter stand out. The shaker cabinetry in the rest of the kitchen is painted a warm white. Other pops of colors can also be seen – the blues of the beautiful hanging pendant lights as well as the cushions of the rattan bar stools really mix well with the red of the wood island.

Dark brown kitchen island with gray countertop

This kitchen is a blend of homey and cozy charm with raw industrial style. The pots and pans hanging rods also support a weighing scale – handy for kitchen recipe measurements. The open shelving was also a bold design choice but one that was tastefully made. The polished gray marble counter top of the kitchen island goes well with the dark brown wooden base and the brown leather round bar stool seating.

Mediterranean kitchen island with brown granite

Mediterranean kitchens typically use high clerestory windows such as these ones to let in light as well as to serve as a tropical design feature that regulates air circulation and thermal comfort. The polished marble floor tiles, speckled brown granite counters, and the different shades of brown on the wooden cabinetry and shelves all give a touch of high-class style to the room. The butcher block island uses a wood counter top and houses a secondary kitchen sink. At the far end of the room, we have a dining area nook with a lower ceiling and a personal warm-white iron chandelier.

Black and white kitchen island with woven bar stool seating

The polished jet black counter top of the kitchen island in this design matches perfectly with its white paneled base and cabinetry. The woven seating and wood flooring also use dark brown hues that mirror the counter top. Travertine tiles adorn the main range area and serve as a rustic back splash design that goes well with the light tans of the walls. Generous use of flora in the form of house plants also help keep this room feeling alive and fresh.

Custom kitchen island with dark cabinet and countertop

The unique shape of the island in this design widens out in the end to provide more surface area. This is so that it can serve as an effective breakfast bar dining space. The Vienna swivel counter stools  have a rich dark brown that matches the finish on the kitchen island cabinetry as well as the dark granite used as a counter top. The rest of the space uses light tan colors. This can be seen in the limestone floor tiles, kitchen cabinetry, and white kitchen ceiling.

Kitchen Islands with Seating for Four

Here is our pictures of kitchen designs with islands that seat four.

Portable stainless steel kitchen island with chrome no-back bar stools

The movable stainless steel counter island on wheels gives this kitchen a modern, industrial, sleek aesthetic and sets the tone for the other design elements of the space. The backless bar stools, range and refrigerator, and even the storage shelves all share the metallic and chrome finish. The subtle use of a white marble back splash and a light tan wood flooring adds a nice touch.

Breakfast bar island with wood countertop and round Aro bar stools

The central kitchen island has a surface made of dark black granite and is accented by the pops of green from the mid-century modern pendant lighting fixtures located above it. The white cabinetry, walls, and ceiling are complemented by the warmth of the wood of the cherry flooring, wooden counter top for the breakfast bar, and the dark brown leather upholstery of the Aro stool seats.

White quartz kitchen island with adjustable height bar stools

The Quartz counter island is the defining piece of this kitchen design. The white cabinets, painted walls, and moldings all complement the color of the island. There are splashes of wood browns and metallic chromes seen on the adjustable height swivel bar stools, kitchen appliances and equipment, and the glass dome pendant lights.

Contemporary kitchen island with breakfast bar

This contemporary kitchen employs the somber use of dark brown block colors on the cabinetry, counter sides, and exposed ceiling beams. The curved breakfast bar serves as the extension of the kitchen, with its already ample counter space provided by the middle kitchen island. Delicate polished granite of the counter tops really stand out and bring the kitchen to life. The wood cushion chairs are a nice touch to the space.

Large two level kitchen island with Felix bar stools

Large kitchen islands with seating need to offer plenty of counter space for diners to eat. The Felix bar stools shown in this picture are sleek, modern furniture choices that go well with the contemporary minimalist look of the marble-top island counter. The high-gloss white cabinets are smart design choices that go exceedingly well with the eccentric industrial pendant lighting of the kitchen. The light colors are also balanced out by the dark porcelain floor tiles and the dark wood laminates on the kitchen counter.

Modern kitchen island with white marble counter and saddle stool seating

This minimalist contemporary design is simple but bold, unadorned but striking. The marble counter island has saddle stool seating tucked away beneath it and employs a cantilever design that really creates an air of modern style to the kitchen. This aesthetic is also seen in the design of it range hood, kitchen counters, and panel cabinetry. The smart use of whites, dark browns, and tans, create a range of design accents that really make this space feel unique.

Rounded kitchen island with seating for four diners

The curved island of this kitchen goes well with the layout of this L-shaped kitchen. It takes advantage of the corner and opens up the breakfast bar space to the rest of the room. The Calacatta Michelangelo polished marble of the kitchen island also gives it a pristine elegance that is matched by the traditional styles of the white kitchen cabinetry, warmth of the dark oak floors, and the sleek but vintage look of the hanging pendant lights.

Semi-circle kitchen island with beige granite counters

Using semi-circular islands is also another way of providing ample seating space by increasing the perimeter of the kitchen island. The Barricato granite used as a counter top is an elegant touch. The open floor plan that connects the kitchen area with the living room space is segmented by differing ceiling heights, although the floor treatment of toned wooden floorboards are continuous. The wooden bar stools, white panel cabinetry, and Gothic-industrial central chandelier are all beautiful accent design pieces for the space.

Long breakfast bar island with Tibetan bar stools

This dark cabinet kitchen has a breakfast bar that uses a beautiful Blanco Tulum granite counter top. The Tibetan bar stools used for the breakfast bar are also simple yet elegant furniture choices. The uniquely textured porcelain tile flooring goes surprisingly well with the Gothic ironworks of the kitchen chandelier and pendant lights.

White faux marble kitchen island with chrome bar stools with black leather seats

This artful contemporary kitchen has a faux marble island that has sleek adjustable swivel bar stools, a multi-hinged kitchen faucet, blue blown glass sculpture pendant lights, and rustic weathered wood floor boards. And that’s just at the kitchen island area. We also have an abstract painting hung at the kitchen counter area and various modern furniture and décor at the adjacent living room and dining room.

Modern minimalist kitchen island with wood counter breakfast bar seating

Modern minimalist kitchens such as this one frequently use flat, uninterrupted surfaces to create a sleek and stylish look. The breakfast bar and kitchen island have weathered gray finish and flat white cabinetry and bases. The Eurostar Riley counter stools share a similar modern and sleek aesthetic. The long, repetitive look of the kitchen cabinets are sophisticated and bold. Overall, this is a perfect example of minimalism at its finest.

Eclectic kitchen island with curved design

This attractive kitchen has varied design choices, seen in its glass-top curved breakfast bar, custom cone range hood, industrial glass dome pendant lights, and long mosaic tile back splash. The white-solid surface central island contrasts well with the rich brown colors of the woods used on the cabinetry and counter sides. All-in-all, the variety of design choices blend well together and produces a unique and stylish kitchen design.

Modern kitchen island with white laminate counter

The modern kitchen island has a glossy laminate surface that really brings out the brightness of the room. We have grain faux wood vinyl flooring, interesting textures on the white porcelain tile back splash wall, and the machine-pressed wood laminate surfaces on the kitchen cabinetry to the right, not to mention the tube pendant lighting for the kitchen island. All-in-all, the sheer variety of the design piece in this space really make it stand out.

Kitchen Islands with Seating for Five or More

If you love to entertain or have a big family that loves to congregate in the kitchen one of the designs below is perfect for you. All of the kitchens have islands with seating for five or more.

Long rectangular kitchen island with seating for six diners

The long island of this traditional kitchen design takes advantage of the large floor space. This utilization of area gives ample seating for the kitchen island and can accommodate a large number of people. The bar stools, although deceivingly rustic and traditional in style, actually serve as swivel chairs. The wicked basket-esque vibe of the pendant lights as well as the bright use of floral arrangements keep this room feeling homey and welcoming.

Gray marble kitchen island with seating

The Athens grey marble counter island and matching marble back splash serve as great accent surfaces in contrast to the white cabinetry and walls of this kitchen space. The horizontal strip patterns on the walls are a unique design choice but works well with this room. Wooden accents on the range area and the kitchen island legs are also nice touches of warmth; this is further complemented by the grained wood flooring. A touch of industrial aesthetic can be seen in the eclectic glass box pendant lights and metal kitchen island stools.

Craftsman kitchen island with modern style upholstered bar seats

With oversized bench style seating this kitchen has plenty of room for eat in dining, or even space for kids or teens to do homework at the kitchen counter. The L-shaped island of this craftsman kitchen uses modern upholstered bar seating that complement the Terra Cotta flooring. This rustic ambiance is furthered carried out by the heavily-textured grained exposed ceiling wood beams, richly-stained inset cabinet doors, and marble counter top. In addition to the L-shaped island, this kitchen also has a central island that houses the kitchen sink.

Eclectic kitchen island with white marble counter and seating for five

This eclectic kitchen uses a wide array of design elements to convey a vibrant yet cozy atmosphere. The one thing that draws your attention would have to be the rustic and industrial hanging light fixture that consists of several warm-white light bulbs hanging from a piece of varnished lumber. Elsewhere, we have the elegant touch of the marble slab island, the chrome and wood bar stools, the mosaic tile back splash, and the tan ceramic flooring. The wooden cabinetry also enhances the feel of the space.

Beautiful traditional kitchen island with backless leather bar stools

This elegant traditional kitchen design uses a large rectangular island to provide extra counter space as well as serve as a breakfast bar. The white paints on the cabinetry, walls, and exposed-beam ceiling complement the rich browns of the kitchen island, mahogany floor boards, and dining table set. The backless leather counter stools as well as the stylish dining chairs are smart picks of furniture for the room. As a finishing touch, the glass chandelier and pendant lights give the room even more elegance and panache.

Kitchen island with built-in bench seating

The central island in this kitchen design has a built-in seating bench. This is a unique example where instead of serving as the table for the breakfast bar dining area, a kitchen island serves as the seating area. In terms of color harmony, the white flat panel cabinets of the kitchen space of this design contrasts with the dark brown finish on the cabinetry of the large kitchen island and the wooden floorboards. The choice of a reflective mirror tile back splash and the glass globe hanging chandelier are nice touches of modern style that really brings life to the space.

Modern kitchen island with light color granite

This modern apartment kitchen island with seating takes advantage of its amazing views with full-length glass windows that let it copious amounts of sunlight. The kitchen itself has a large island with a light speckled granite counter and contemporary-styled seating. The use of house plants as well as wicker dining table chairs also liven up the space.

Mediterranean kitchen island with white marble counter

Another beautiful Mediterranean-style kitchen, stone brick trimmings can be seen on the window sills and frames as well as at the bottom lip of the range hood. These are matched by the stone tile flooring of the kitchen. The white and gray marble counter as well as the exposed dark wooden beams on the ceiling help give the room a rustic and homey vibe. Also seen here is a creative way of storing pots and pans – a hanging rack of sorts is suspended above the long kitchen island.

Contemporary kitchen island with solid wood counter

The stark white cabinets, walls, crown moldings, and ceiling of this kitchen are pleasantly contrasted by the warm streaks of brown seen on the cupboards, island base, and dark wood floors. The Stacker bar stool seating is a contemporary design choice and matches with the solid wood counter top for the breakfast bar.

Blue kitchen island with seating

This lovely kitchen with blue island and seating offers plenty of space for eat-in dining from its large quartz countertop. White cabinets, light blue tile backsplash and light wood flooring helps keep the design light and bright.

White quartz kitchen island with dark cabinet

With the addition of a few more bar stools this large island has plenty of room to accommodate additional diners. The white quartz counter of the kitchen island is illuminated by pendant lights attached to a track. This makes them movable according to the user’s preferences. The natural stone mosaic tile back splash gives some variety to the visual treatment of the walls and breaks the block gray color scheme of the rest of the painted walls. The dark cabinets of the kitchen also go well with the generally white tone of the room.

Related Kitchen Island Design Galleries You May Like:

143 Luxury Kitchen Designs – Beautiful Kitchens With Islands – Kitchens with Breakfast Bars – Kitchen Design Guide –  77 Kitchen Island Ideas

20 photos in the interior, planning ideas

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

What is a kitchen with an island?

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

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

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

Pluses and minuses

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

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

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

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

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

Layout features

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

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

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

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

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

Styles and colors

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

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

Classic style

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

Modern style

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

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

Island in the kitchen design solutions and design ideas from the salon Liniya

For many, the dream of the perfect kitchen is invariably linked to the kitchen island. The imagination draws a spacious cooking area, a dining group and, of course, an island. nine0003

What is the secret of the popularity of this design solution and how convenient is it in real life?

Kitchen island - what is it?

A kitchen island is a free-standing table or headset module. Designers and owners choose the island for its functionality and the ambiance it brings to the kitchen space. The island gives you the opportunity to adapt the space to your own needs and lifestyle.


Different tasks - one answer

The island in the interior of the kitchen can become a continuation of the work surface, expanding the area of ​​the countertop. The kitchen island allows you to place kitchen appliances or organize a storage system. Housewives will appreciate the additional sink or hob, which can be equipped with a separate kitchen table.

The island will become the center of attraction for your kitchen. Light meals, coffee breaks or even a glass at a makeshift bar counter - the possibilities of a kitchen island are limited only by the owner's imagination. nine0003

Designers often resort to zoning a room with the help of such kitchen modules. An island table is a great solution to combine space and designate a place for cooking or relaxing. The island is indispensable when you need to correctly zone the kitchen-living room. In this case, the island draws a semantic boundary between the cooking area and the living room, but at the same time allows you to use the space to the maximum.

Kitchen island: advantages and disadvantages

Designers and owners of interiors with a kitchen island note that its main advantage is comfort and convenience.

  • First of all, this free-standing headset will create ideal conditions in terms of ergonomics. Proper planning of the island in the kitchen will make it easy to implement the triangle rule: the main points of interaction in the kitchen - refrigerator - sink - stove - should be equidistant from each other. This is done not so much for beauty, but for functionality, because such a solution will reduce movement around the kitchen by several kilometers a week. nine0021
  • The second advantage is that everything is always at hand with the kitchen island. Modern models of kitchen islands are beautiful and convenient systems with drawers and modules of different sizes and configurations, and modern fittings and mechanisms allow you to access all cabinet compartments. In convenient storage sections, you can place sets of dishes for serving and cooking, table linen, small household appliances that are always required for work.
  • Another advantage is the additional seating, as the kitchen island can be converted into a bar or dining table to accommodate a large number of people.
  • With a kitchen island, cooking turns into an exciting cooking show, and scenes from your favorite films become a reality: cooking a romantic dinner together, touching minutes decorating Christmas gingerbread with children, or soulful conversations with friends while you create another gastronomic masterpiece. nine0021
  • And most importantly, the kitchen island is simply very beautiful!

There are drawbacks to any furniture, including the kitchen island.

    • The first major obstacle is the small area of ​​the kitchen. A kitchen island is not a good solution for small rooms. Dimensions and ease of use dictate their own rules for placing furniture.
    • The second important requirement is the availability of communications! It is necessary to provide the island with electricity, water and sewerage if you plan to equip it with a hob or sink. nine0021
    • And, of course, a designer kitchen island is an option with a rather high cost, and when planning a budget, it is important to take into account not only the furniture itself, but also the installation of communications and appliances.

    Island and kitchen area

    The kitchen island is a great option for spacious kitchens.

    • Designers advise designing a kitchen island in interiors with an area of ​​at least 20 square meters. It can be a large kitchen or a combined kitchen-living room. nine0021
    • It is important that the configuration of the space allows you to comfortably use all the functionality of the island. For example, you should carefully consider the distance between the island table and walls or other furniture. It all depends on the preferences and characteristics of the owners, but experts do not recommend equipping the island if the passages are expected to be less than 90–120 cm.
    • Island styling is also possible in small kitchens. Designers often suggest using mobile island carts in the interior, which combine excellent aesthetic qualities with practicality without taking up much space. nine0021
    • For small spaces, if desired, you can choose peninsula options when one side of a free-standing module is adjacent to a wall or headset. In this case, all the advantages of the island can be used without sacrificing precious centimeters of area.

    Instructions for use (planning details)

    If you are about to become the proud owner of a large kitchen area with an island, it is important to decide on the functions that you want to endow this important element with. nine0003

    1. More often than not, an island is an extra work surface and storage space. All kinds of sections, drawers, drawers and shelves are equipped inside the island table. It is important to think over the size and content of the island in advance - the doors and drawers should open without problems so that it is convenient to use the contents.
    2. The dream of any housewife is an open kitchen with a sink, oven and hob built into the island. This requires careful planning at the design project stage, because in order to place a sink or stove, it is necessary to design and install communications in advance. And the hob, gas or electric, without fail will require the addition of a hood. Although the hood in this case can serve as an accent of the interior and even decor. nine0021
    3. The kitchen island often becomes a place for meals or acts as a bar counter.

    In the case of organizing a dining area, it must be ensured that the plumb line of the table is large enough - from 30 cm and above, since this factor seriously affects comfort.

    You need to pay attention to the height of the table-island. The optimal height depends on the purpose and functions: cooking and snacking is more comfortable at a table from 90 cm. And the bar area, on the contrary, should be raised. Complete the resulting bar with a couple of stylish bar chairs or stools and enjoy! nine0003


    Kitchen island decor and style

    Details, decor and style are the ingredients that turn the kitchen island into a central element of the interior.

    Techniques with which designers turn ordinary kitchens into stylish spaces are the successful color scheme of the kitchen island, carefully selected materials and spectacular details.

    The color solution often coincides with the shade of the headset itself, and sometimes vice versa - it is based on the contrast of combinations. The choice of material depends on the style of the kitchen and the island - natural wood, metal or plastic. Bright fittings and decorative elements add character to the kitchen. nine0003

    The configuration, shape and size of the kitchen island is dictated by issues of aesthetics and convenience. The rectangular shape is the most popular, but semicircular or asymmetrical islands also find their admirers.

    The kitchen island can easily fit into the interior of any style direction.

    • American style

    Like an illustration to a famous novel, kitchen islands in the style of this trend amaze with their scale and practicality. Natural high-quality materials - wood combined with a marble countertop - and contrasting colors are the hallmarks of such sets. nine0003

    • Provence

    An interior style that has won the hearts of admirers all over the world, it is great for designing an island table. Simple lines of kitchen facades and backsplashes, vintage fittings, light, sun-bleached shades are recognizable details of Provencal interiors.

    • Elegant classic

    The kitchen island will perfectly fit into modern kitchen interiors in an elegant classic style. Refined details, light shades - white, milky, beige, stone countertops - your island in the kitchen will look light and elegant. nine0003

    • Scandinavian style

    The characteristic features of this popular trend in design are rigor, conciseness, natural materials and attention to detail. The kitchen, complemented by a practical island with a combined breakfast bar, will become a favorite place for the whole family.


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