Kitchen Island Inspiration

The Kitchen Master

The kitchen island is not just a mere addition to your kitchen; it’s a statement of style, functionality, and convenience. When designed with precision and creativity, a kitchen island can be the most valuable and appealing feature of your kitchen. Whether you’re planning to simply extend your counter space, add storage, or create a family gathering spot, adding or renovating a kitchen island will increase the comfort and functionality of your home.

Kitchen Island Ideas To Enhance Storage & Functionality

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

Waterfall Island

It’s easy to spot this modern design because it 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 like this one, the island countertop and cabinets differ from those lining the walls. This trend provides enhanced visual interest and ensures 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

Leave space in other areas of the kitchen by incorporating some of your appliances into the island. The design seen here boasts a unique, built-in drawer microwave to free up counter space without overtaking the area above the range. The island also includes 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. This popular island feature lets you display everything from functional cookbooks and baskets to decorative bowls and tea sets.

Additional & Prep Sinks

If you often have multiple chefs working together, it can be incredibly useful to have two sinks — 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, as seen here.

Many islands come equipped with an additional sink, enhancing the island’s functionality. From washing fruits to filling pots or even chilling wine, the uses are endless. You can even opt for a faucet design that complements the main one or add a second disposer.

Butcher Block Countertop

Maximize the functionality of your food prep area with a butcher block countertop. This material is akin to 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 the embellishments and detailing of a traditional kitchen, you need a traditional island to go with it. In this design, the colors and finishes of the island match the rest of the kitchen. Then, curved, ogee countertop edges lend an air of sophistication to this elegant centerpiece.

Slim Layout

Want a kitchen island but not sure if you have room for one? There are no standard dimensions for kitchen islands. Feel free to design one in a narrow or custom shape to fit the space. Who knows — you may even still have room for seating!

Pendant Lighting

While adequate storage, counter space, and layout are vital components of a functional kitchen, don’t overlook the importance of a well-purposed lighting plan. Recessed can lights may get the job done, but hanging pendants make for a more attractive focal point above your kitchen island.

Creative Seating Arrangement

Who says you have to arrange all your barstools along one side of the island? The design shown here proves that a little creativity breeds new possibilities. The island is large enough that, even with two sides taken up by seating, there’s still plenty of storage space and an ample food prep surface.

Main Cooktop or Additional Burner

An oversized island can house a full-sized cooktop or even a small burner. This facilitates interaction with family and guests while cooking.

An additional cooktop on the island is also perfect for preparing quick meals or simmering sauces.

Contact The Kitchen Master To Begin Your Kitchen Island Transformation

Are you feeling inspired to begin your kitchen makeover? Don’t trust the work to just anyone. At The Kitchen Master, we have over 40 years of experience transforming the heart of the home into a beautiful, functional space, complete with an island if you wish.

With our friendly, knowledgeable team by your side, you can rest assured that the renovation will be completed properly, using only the best products, materials, and finishes.

To learn more about our design process or to request a free virtual design consultation, please contact us online or call (630) 369-0500 today.