The kitchen island can provide extra storage, counter space, a casual dining area,and a beautiful focal point in the room. If you’re preparing a kitchen reno, plan your island design early to give it the attention it deserves. Let the following ideas inspire your upcoming project.

Waterfall Island

This design extends the countertop material all the way to the floor on both ends.The resulting cascading effect grounds the island and makes it more of a sculptural object, all while leaving plenty of room for seating.

Contrasting Colors

In a contrasting kitchen, the island countertop and cabinets are different from those lining the walls. This provides enhanced visual interest and your kitchen never gets boring. It also allows you to incorporate two unique cabinet and countertop options if you can’t make up your mind about which one you like the best.

Built-in Appliances

By incorporating some of your appliances into the island it creates space in other areas of the kitchen. You can also include a sink and dishwasher for easy access.

Open Shelving

While most kitchen storage is intended to hide cutlery and small appliances behind closed doors, sometimes it’s most convenient to house objects on open shelves like cooks books, tea sets, baskets.

Prep Sink

If you have multiple people working together, it can be useful to have a second sink. One for rinsing produce and preparing food, and another for cleaning dishes and washing hands. A large kitchen island is the perfect place for a second prep sink.

Butcher Block Countertop

Maximize the functionality of your food prep area with a butcher block countertop.This material is like having a giant cutting board for a counter. It’s designed to be cut on directly and develops a unique weathered look over time.

Traditional Design

If you love a traditional kitchen, you need a traditional island to go with it. In this option, the colors and finishes of the island will match the rest of your kitchen.

Slim Layout

If you want an Island but not sure if you have room for one? There are no standard dimensions for kitchen islands. You can design one in a narrow or custom shape to fit the space.

Creative Seating Arrangement

You don’t have to arrange all your bar stools along one side of the island? If your island is large enough, even with two sides taken up by seating, there will be plenty of storage space and an ample space for prep work.