Long gone are the days of the boxed-in kitchen space that isolates the cook from the rest of the family during meal time preparation. Today, open-plan kitchens are all the rage, and thanks to the kitchen island, you can still create adequate separation between rooms.

Not only this, but kitchen islands add a brilliant type of functionality to your kitchen. They can double as a seating area, add storage space, act as a room divider, or even the centerpiece of your kitchen.

If the heart of your home is a little outdated, here are a few kitchen island ideas to bring the space into the twenty-first century.

 

1. Use Organic, Fluid Shapes

Not all kitchen islands have to be square or rectangular in shape. One of the best ways to create a dynamic flow and visual interest in your kitchen is with a kitchen island that's irregularly shaped.

By this, we mean an island that has rounded edges on one side, and a straight edge on the other side, for example. It's all about thinking out of the box and using shapes that create movement, for a modern twist.

2. Waterfall Edges Are All the Rage

A waterfall edge is another brilliant way to create an ultra-modern, sleek feel in your kitchen -- if that's the look you're aiming for. In short, a waterfall edge means that the countertop blends from horizontal to vertical, down the side of the island, like a cascade of water.

A good material choice for this type of look is marble or granite as you can generally find large enough slabs for this kitchen island design. Not to mention how fabulous these materials look in any kitchen.

3. Go Supersize for Maximum Impact

If you have a large kitchen, you'll need a kitchen island that makes a real statement. And the best way to make maximum impact is with a kitchen island that has oversized proportions. This ensures that the island is not swallowed up by the rest of your kitchen.

Oversize proportions might look like large and chunky handles along the countertop or a countertop with a very obvious overhang. You can also bring the whole statement together with an oversized light fixture above the island.

 

4. Put Your Island in the Spotlight

Speaking about lighting fixtures, this is yet another way to tie your kitchen island perfectly into your kitchen. Instead of opting for plain old downlighting above your kitchen island, think boldly, and opt for a light fitting that adds character, depth, and tone.

Hanging pendant lights and chandeliers are a great way to make a statement. Choose a hardware color that ties in with the hardware on your kitchen island or the rest of your kitchen so that it all complements each other.

 

5. Mix Things Up With Mixed Materials

Mixing materials is one of the best ways to add a touch of character or tell a story about your kitchen. Using mixed materials also serves a functional purpose. Particularly long or wide kitchen islands need extra support, so this is where you should consider using exposed wood beams, mixed with a marble or quartz countertop.

You could opt for a timber breakfast bar or chopping block, wooden cupboard doors, mixed with a stone countertop -- the options are endless. Being creative with the materials you choose can make all the difference!

6. Think Beyond a Conventional Island Shape

As we mentioned earlier, you don't have to stick to a conventional square or rectangular shape with a kitchen island. This is especially helpful if you have a large or small kitchen space to fill.

If your kitchen is on the larger side, why not consider a t-shaped island that extends off your kitchen into the dining area? This is a good way to fill space and semi-combine the two rooms.

On the other hand, if you have a smaller kitchen, you could opt for a round kitchen island that doesn't take up too much floor space or hinder traffic flow.

 

7. Get Creative With Storage Options

Some kitchens have a premium amount of storage space, while others don't. If you're part of the latter group, a kitchen island is a good way to maximize the storage space you need.

You could add extra cabinets, drawers, or even open shelving to your island for items such as crockery, cutlery, and other cookware.

8. Create a Mini Dining Area With a Wraparound Countertop

Don't have the space to have a kitchen island, plus a kitchen table for dining? Don't fret, you can combine the two. This is especially helpful if your home does not have a designated dining room, too.

Opt for a kitchen island that has a wraparound countertop with an overhang. This means that the extra space underneath the countertop creates a seating area so that you can use the island for dining, too.

Opt for materials such as granite or quartz for this type of kitchen island as you can find large enough slabs that stand up to the task.

 

Feeling Inspired by These Kitchen Island Ideas?

These are just a few of the most popular kitchen island ideas that can completely transform this important space in your home. Another brilliant way to update your kitchen is with fresh, new cabinetry.

Whether you're considering cabinet refacing, or a completely new installation, Cabinet Wholesalers is here to help you create a kitchen that speaks volumes about your home. Talk to a pro today and let's get the project started!