Adding an Island to Your Kitchen

A well-placed kitchen island provides additional workspace and is a hub for meal preparation. However, its role goes beyond the practical — these freestanding structures serve as the epicenter of familial gatherings, and they’re often imbued with a distinct look and style to complement the rest of the kitchen. An iconic example is Julia Child’s kitchen, which features a large wooden table that students would circle. Today, kitchen islands seamlessly integrate materials, colors and design elements to become the focal point of the kitchen space.

The Value Of A Kitchen Island

Few pieces of furniture offer as much functionality and visual impact as a well-placed island. A kitchen island is a multifaceted workhorse, providing additional counter and storage space precisely where you need it. Additionally, it’s incredibly versatile.

Whether outfitted with fixtures and appliances such as sinks and cooktops or simply adorned with bar stools for dining, an island can serve almost every kitchen need. This adaptability is precisely why builders and designers often tout adding an island to a kitchen as one of the most impactful and cost-effective upgrades you can make to your kitchen. 

Let’s look at some kitchen cabinet and island ideas.

Choosing the Right Surface Material

Once you’ve determined how much room you need for a kitchen island, the next step is choosing your materials. The right surface material can elevate the look, making the island an eye-catching centerpiece while ensuring it can withstand the rigors of daily use. Here are some popular materials to consider when learning how to design a kitchen island:

Natural stone: Granite and marble are classic choices for kitchen islands, exuding elegance and offering a durable and heat-resistant surface. Granite comes in various colors and patterns, while marble boasts a timeless, luxurious appeal. 
Quartz: Engineered quartz countertops combine the beauty of natural stone with enhanced durability. They are nonporous, making them highly resistant to stains, scratches and bacterial growth.
Butcher block: If you prefer a warm and rustic look, a butcher block countertop is your solution. Made from oak, walnut or hardwood like maple, butcher block countertops offer a charming, natural appearance. 
Solid surface: Solid surface materials provide a seamless and uniform appearance. Solid surface countertops are also repairable, as minor scratches can be buffed out.
Stainless steel: Stainless steel is durable, resistant to heat and stains, and easy to clean. However, it may show scratches and fingerprints more prominently.
Laminate: While not as durable as stone or solid surface options, laminate is still a practical choice for those on a tight budget.

Kitchen Island Design Inspiration

Your island can serve as a functional workspace, a stylish focal point or a combination of both. Here are some ideas for kitchen islands to consider:

Multilevel island: Create visual interest with a multilevel island. One level can be dedicated to food preparation, while another can serve as a breakfast bar or a built-in dining area with bar stools.
Open shelving: Add open shelving on one or both sides of your island. This adds a trendy, airy look and provides a convenient display space for dishes, cookbooks or decorative items.
Waterfall edge: A waterfall edge adds a contemporary and luxurious touch to your kitchen island. With this design, the countertop material flows seamlessly down the sides of the island, creating a sleek and visually striking effect.
Built-in appliances: Make your island more functional by incorporating built-in appliances. Options include a sink, cooktop, wine cooler or even a microwave drawer. If you’re adding a cooktop or range to your island, ensure proper ventilation. A range hood or downdraft vent will help remove cooking odors and maintain air quality.
Statement lighting: Install pendant lights or a statement chandelier above your island. Lighting fixtures illuminate the workspace and serve as decorative elements that enhance the island’s visual appeal.
Island with seating: Incorporate seating like barstools into your island design if you enjoy entertaining or casual dining. This is also a great option if you don’t have enough room for a dining room table. 
Hidden storage: Maximize your island’s storage potential with hidden compartments and pull-out organizers. Use drawers, shelves or cabinets to keep utensils, pots and pans organized and accessible.
Natural elements: Infuse natural elements like reclaimed wood or stone into your island’s design to create a warm and inviting ambiance. These materials add texture and character to your kitchen.
Mobile island: If you have limited space or want flexibility, a great way to add an island to a small kitchen is with a mobile kitchen island on wheels. You can move it around for additional prep space or use it as a serving cart during gatherings.

Adding Kitchen Cabinets to Your Island

Expanding the storage capacity of your kitchen island by adding cabinets is a practical and stylish choice. This enhancement augments the island’s functionality and allows you to keep frequently used items close at hand. Here are some considerations and tips when adding kitchen cabinets to your island:

Cabinet style and finish: Ensure that the style and finish of the cabinets harmonize with the existing cabinetry. A cohesive look is essential for a polished aesthetic.
Functional storage: Think about how you plan to use the island cabinets. Drawers are excellent for storing utensils, kitchen tools and linens, while cabinets with shelves or pull-out trays are suitable for pots, pans and larger items. 
Hardware and pulls: Pay attention to the hardware and pulls you choose for your kitchen island cabinets. Match them to the hardware used throughout the rest of your kitchen for consistency.
Integrated appliances: If your island cabinets are large enough, you can place appliances inside for storage, such as toasters. You may also be able to conceal larger appliances, like microwaves, within cabinets. 
Accessibility: Ensure the island cabinets are accessible and in an optimal location, whether you’d prefer cabinets across from the refrigerator, oven, sink or on all sides. 
Professional installation: To guarantee a seamless integration and proper alignment of cabinets with your existing kitchen, it’s advisable to enlist the services of a professional installer or contractor.

Get Kitchen Island Designs & Material From Bath, Kitchen & Tile

At Bath, Kitchen & Tile, we are your trusted local source for all kitchen and bathroom renovation needs. You can count on us for a wide selection of premium kitchen cabinets that will add functionality and aesthetic value to your kitchen island. Explore our range of cabinets today, or schedule your free design. Let us help you achieve a kitchen island that inspires culinary creativity!