And for those kitchens with an island, this room becomes the “gathering” place for family, friends and neighbors. When I began researching kitchen islands I thought there would be 2 basic categories – solitary islands and ones with room for seating. Boy was I surprised at the plethora of options! The following are not your Grandmother’s butcher block table sitting in the middle of the kitchen! I found islands of various colors or covered with reclaimed wood; sleek contemporary ones with drawers galore; extensions with tables built in; and ones which were re-purposed furniture! Designing a kitchen has never been so much fun – at least for me! Enjoy the many options I’ve found!
The colors of this kitchen and island would bring a smile to any face. The lines are clean and sophisticated; the palette soothes; and the bead-board adds an old-fashioned warmth to this beautiful interior space. Photo: CoastalStyle.blogspot
This pristine white on white kitchen is the perfect compliment to the richness of the wood flooring. Details such as the baskets or the pop of colorin the flowers really stand out. The pendant lighting or baskets can be changed out on a whim to give the room a whole new look and feel. Photos: L – BHG.com; R – Kouboo
An antique wash over a subtle mint green adds a bit of contrast to this quaint and uncomplicated kitchen. The open storage for white dishware is the perfect space for displaying family heirlooms or collectibles. Photo: Remodelanddo La Casa
The contrasting wood flooring, counter-top and chairs against the white on white kitchen and baton board is one of the trending kitchen influences over the last several years. I don’t think either ever goes out of style – they are just reinvented or rediscovered year after year. Photo: Decorfacil
The extended island – turned dining table – was a trend I spotted in an earlier blog this year. I especially love how perfectly the 4 stools nest together when not in use. Photo: Vanessa Francis Design
Just as the photo before, this island became an extension for the family’s dining area. It just goes to show how many options and choices there are if you get creative enough to think “outside the box”. Photo: HGTV
Now this is a new twist I hadn’t run across before…and I love the step down of the eating area from the island itself. Visually it’s a bit like a waterfall – island counter, table, chairs. Photo: VP Interiors
This residence in St Simons Island, GA, echos the serene beaches, island breezes and nature’s bounty outside the home’s walls. Everywhere you look are details adding character and charm – distressed woods, elegant pendant lights, upholstered chairs and benches plus customized detail in the cupboard doors. Photo: Dove Studio via House of Turquoise on Pinterest
My future kitchen will definitely highlight butcher block counters as shown by this gorgeous and spacious island! The rich warmth of maple creates a cozy space for anyone to sit down and chat as they watch (or maybe assist) the cook! Photo: Home Bunch on Pinterest
The charm exuded in this kitchen brings back memories of baking pies with my Mom. The tin ceiling, DIY pendant lights and island clad in recycled wood couldn’t be cozier! Next time you don’t know what to do with your island – just cover it over with reclaimed wood materials! Photo: Nest of Bliss
As an antique lover, I went ga-ga over this kitchen island! It is truly a one-of-a-kind creating quite an impact. Add the vintage chandelier and quite a statement is made in this home. Photo: HomeDecorInfo found on Pinterest
One of Kouboo’s classic style chandeliers – in either capiz seashells or abalone shells – would make a statement above any kitchen island or room of the house. Photos: Kouboo
The rustic shaker inspired table fits perfectly in this white on white U-shaped kitchen. Everything from the multi-pane windows to the blue and white striped rug whisper to the memories of cooking in the kitchen as a child. My heart is full when I look at this bright and airy space. Photo: Found on Thomas Murphy
Another trend I am noticing this year is the darker blues, grays or even black as a contrasting color to white cabinets and natural woods. This unique island is another amazing find. It functions as extra work space as well as having fabulous drawers for root vegetables, oversized appliances and even wicker baskets of books. Photo: Williams Sonoma
And last but not least… I’m going to brag on my youngest son and his wife’s new home and kitchen! Their new semi-custom home came with dark wood cabinets which they had painted white then added mat black door knobs and pulls. My son hung the brushed stainless pendant lights and his wife chose these country French chairs for cozying up to the island. They both love to cook…and their first home together will be filled with lots of lip smacking good food, laughter and family (which includes the fur-babies of course)! Photo: H Rose
So, whether you are a seasoned homeowner or newlyweds, creating the kitchen of your dreams may revolve around the oh-so-versatile island. With so many ideas to choose from it will be a fun and exciting process!
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