Kitchens are the heart of the home. Kitchen islands have become a staple. It’s where we prepare food, have extra storage, host party food, and eat. I’ve rounded up the latest trends in kitchen islands, whether you have a small island, or a large expansive kitchen. Kitchen islands are made of 2 components: a kitchen counter and the cabinets.
Oak Wood and White Marble is a Classic Design Choice
With so many design choices for counter and island combinations, it can be confusing. Oak wood and white marble is a classic choice. This combination is classic and neutral. Because it’s so neutral, it will not go out of style in a few years. Wood and white is a timeless design choice.
Clean Timeless Island
A classic choice for an island is a large island with a sink. A sink centered in the island creates symmetry. Mimic this symmetry with an oven behind the sink, and similar cabinets on each side. One downside is the person who sits across from the sink has limited space, plus, water splashes near their food.
Add a Ton of Island Storage Without Seating
If you have a narrow kitchen, but still want an island for both food preparation and aesthetic, opt for an island without seating. This beautiful waterfall island has cabinets and drawers, but no seating. It adds a ton of function to the kitchen, which would look bare without the island.
Wood Counter Table with Legs Instead of Cabinets
If you don’t need storage in your kitchen, opt for a kitchen island that resembles a dining table. A counter height table adds the function of a food prep area and socialization. However, aesthetically if makes the kitchen a lot more airy since it doesn’t have the heavy cabinets at the bottom. It allows allows you to show off the kitchen flooring more!
An Oversize Island Made for Dining

An extra large island is such a great use of space in a kitchen. This island is double the width of a standard island. While many people add a narrow island, a wide island provides so much more dining space. This is especially important for the seating behind the sink which get the least amount of space. Also note how the sink is off to the side to allow for more space. This requires a larger counter slab.
An Extended Kitchen Island with Seating
An extended kitchen island is a great idea if you love to socialize in the kitchen. It allows for your guests to feel more at ease, and you can have extra seating similar to a table. It also has the best of both worlds with storage, but an openness without TOO many cabinets. Pick legs that mirror the design aesthetic in other parts of your home. Square legs work best in a modern home. Open for shapely curved legs in a traditional or organic modern designed home.
Which Island is Right for You?
Choosing a kitchen island that’s right for your home and family is a big deal! I hope this blog post gave you a variety of ideas on kitchen islands. For more kitchen inspiration check out these articles:

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