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Kitchen Island Ideas

Whether learning how to maximise storage or optimising a room with clever colour choices, kitchen island ideas showcase ways to add a versatile centrepiece to a cooking space. As one of the most popular formats among homeowners, kitchen islands offer an eye-catching focal point that can be adapted to suit any interior or budget. From a central hub for entertaining to extra space for hobbies and homeworking, kitchen layout ideas from our design experts and real customers reveal creative ways to tailor a kitchen island for a bespoke, multifunctional feature in any home.

"Islands control the flow, making it easy to move around and assign key work areas. This is handy for large families or entertaining. Islands also make the kitchen more sociable, allowing the chef to chat with guests instead of standing with their back to family and friends."

Kim Deighton - Kitchen design and insights expert

1. Create A Classic Cornerstone

Optimise a kitchen island with heritage shaker appeal, like @edwardian_on_sea. The ornate detail of the fronts draws the eye to the centrepiece.

See Shaker Kitchen Islands
2. Hone In On Handleless

Switch to handleless cabinetry to create leading lines in an island layout. The architectural dynamic gives the illusion of space in rooms large and small.

See Handleless Kitchen Islands

3. Look To Linear

Follow @victorianhousetour’s lead for a modern kitchen island idea that cuts clutter. Ditch accessories for integrated handles to keep the island looking sleek.

See Integrated Handle Kitchen Islands
4. Simplify With Slab

Two-tone schemes are a popular concept with islands providing a prime position to add a trending hue. Stick to a simple, slab style to let colour take centre stage.

See Slab kitchen Islands

5. Gravitate To Gloss

Adding extra central cabinetry can inhibit natural light. Consider a gloss finish for a brightening effect even in dark corners.

SEE GLOSS ISLAND KITCHENS

6. Make It Matt

In a large kitchen island layout, consider a matt finish, like @ourlittlelondonabode. This soft look creates an intimate scene that draws the room in for a cosy effect.

See Matt Kitchen Islands
7. Brighten With White

Use white units, like @henryhousestyle, for a small kitchen island idea that retains the sense of space. The crisp palette crafts a light and inviting atmosphere.

See White Kitchen Islands

8. Customise With Colour

Let an island capture the character of a home with paintable fronts. As the centre of family life, a lick of paint is a great way to bring personality to the forefront.

See Paintable Kitchen Islands
9. Try New Textures

From timber tones to stony surfaces, tactile fronts are set to top the interior design charts. Use your island to test out texture without committing to a full remodel.

See Textured Kitchen Islands