5 captivating kitchen island design ideas

November 16, 2016

No remarkable kitchen is complete without an eye-catching island. Centered in the middle of the kitchen, islands are not only aesthetically pleasing – they also foster a sense of togetherness, as families and friends are able to gather around and socialize while one or more people prepare a meal. They're also handy storage spaces for utensils, dry food items, cook books and so on, ensuring that your kitchen maintains a polished and uncluttered look.

Given the importance of the island to the kitchen's functionality and feel, it's a good idea to pay close attention to the design details of the area. If you're searching for some inspiration for your new island, look no further. Check out the list of 5 captivating kitchen island design ideas below:

1. Go antique chic
If you're considering a kitchen remodel with an old-fashioned rustic feel, entertain a more simple approach to your island by repurposing an old table, desk or bureau. Head to antique stores or thrift stores in your area and select a piece that complements your vision for the room: A dark oak dining room table with fold-down sides could serve as an ideal sitting area and work station, as can a larger desk or coffee table. It's even possible to add to the piece yourself to make it more accommodating. For example, according to a recommendation by Country Living, you could create extra shelves for a repurposed table by using planks of wood, or you could even add a quartz countertop to an old table for a striking old-meets-new aesthetic. 

2. Hide your appliances
Do you find that appliances such as your microwave and toaster take away from the 'less is more' feel of your kitchen design? If that's so, consider this fantastic kitchen island tip from This Old House. Have your island built to hold appliances either on the sides of the structure or on shelves in the bottom. For example, you could have your microwave placed into one end of the island, drawers in the center to hold utensils and appliances such as your toaster and coffee grinder, and then for a dazzling finish, a built-in wine rack on the other end.

3. Mix your materials
As pointed out by Elle Decor, a major trend in kitchen design this year has been the move toward rooms that incorporate varying styles for a more bohemian and relaxed look. If you are aiming for an eclectic feel to your kitchen space, start with the island. Houzz reported on an island design that blends materials in the form of a wood countertop and stainless steel drawers – a strong contrast that commands attention and complements a controlled chaos vibe. The same approach can also be applied to the seating that surrounds the island – select a mix of bar stools of varying design and color, or for an even bolder look choose an assortment of different chairs.

4. Consider something classic
To create a more classic and uniform kitchen island, have your stools lined up on one side, keeping the other side free of furniture so you can move around, access drawers and cupboards and prepare food. You could even opt to install a sink to make the area even more functional. For the countertop, Country Living suggested using a gray material, such as quartz or granite, and then opting for a muted yet stylish color for the bottom drawers and cabinets – think a shade of cream or a light sky blue.

5. An open space
It is rare to find a kitchen island with a open space underneath, as most islands are designed with utensil and appliance storage in mind. However, as This Old House noted, open space under a kitchen island can be a perfect place to keep your bar stools in the event of a party or large gathering. If room permits, you could even design your island to incorporate drawers and cabinets on one end, keeping an empty space on the other for the seats to be placed. 

For help and guidance with your new kitchen design or remodel head to a Wolseley Kitchen and Bath showroom near you and chat to our experts!