Kitchen Design
10 Inventive Ideas for Kitchen Islands
Printed glass, intriguing antiques, unexpected angles – these islands show there's no end to creative options in kitchen design
Looking for something a little out of the ordinary for your kitchen island? There’s no reason to settle for humdrum when you can have vibrant color, interesting patterns and textures, and unique shapes. From designer glass to repurposed antiques, these 10 creative ways with kitchen islands will spark your imagination.
3. Decorate with printed glass. This look is created by printing an image directly onto the glass before affixing it to the island. If you’ve been searching for just the right tile or paint color for your island to no avail, this could be the ideal choice for you – the options are limitless.
4. Reclaim timber. Cover up a bland or dated island with reclaimed wood boards on the diagonal for a rustic look. Also framing the reclaimed wood with new, painted wood keeps the rustic island current and helps it fit in well with a number of styles.
5. Try angles. The custom green cement island in this contemporary home has a unique shape that catches the eye while maintaining a slim footprint. Too many details would clutter a look like this, so keep it simple with a gooseneck spout and minimalist hardware.
6. Bring in nature. A custom island like this one, created from natural tree limbs, is a surefire focal point. The smooth edges and organic shapes are a welcome contrast to the sharp angles and crisp corners usually found in the kitchen; this table just begs to be gathered around.
7. Use live-edge wood. Far simpler than the last example but no less striking, this island combines live-edge wood with hand-carved, painted wood for a modern take.
8. Roll out the barrel. Looking for an island solution that’s as easy on the wallet as it is big on creativity? This may be just the thing. Simply place a round marble piece atop a sturdy wine barrel for a nearly instant island. Just be aware that this may not be the best choice for households with children, unless you have a pro secure the barrel and marble to ensure they will not topple over.
9. Adopt pattern. Covering the base of your island with patterned tile, like the lovely damask design shown here, is a simple way to transform a ho-hum space into one that's unique and eye-catching.
Have a pretty wallpaper you’d love to use instead? Wallpaper can work beautifully, but you will need to have it covered with a sheet of clear acrylic to protect it from damage.
Have a pretty wallpaper you’d love to use instead? Wallpaper can work beautifully, but you will need to have it covered with a sheet of clear acrylic to protect it from damage.
10. Repurpose an antique. Consider shopping at a flea market for something unique; antique chests, cupboards and more can be transformed into one-of-a-kind islands. This piece, once a Tibetan altar, has found new life as the heart of this cosy kitchen.
Tell us: Which of these island designs caught your eye?
More: How to Design a Kitchen Island
Photos: Browse over a thousand inspiring kitchen island designs
Tell us: Which of these island designs caught your eye?
More: How to Design a Kitchen Island
Photos: Browse over a thousand inspiring kitchen island designs
2. Colour your cabinets. Painting the base of your island bright buttercup yellow is a bold choice. The color is unabashedly optimistic and perfect for a room you gravitate towards first thing in the morning.