Modern Kitchen Islands

Sleek surfaces, dramatic contrasts and bursts of color make modern kitchen islands both fashion-forward and fun.
Transitional Kitchen With Marble Countertops and Dark Wood Floors

Transitional White Kitchen With Dark Wood Flooring

This transitional kitchen blends the best of traditional familiarity with modern sophistication to create a comfortable, livable space. The high-end Calacatta marble countertops and built-in breakfast nook lend the traditional elements, while the sleek wood-veneered cabinets and dark wood flooring add modern influences.

Sleek surfaces, clean-lined cabinets, brushed-metal (or hidden) drawer pulls—these are some of the tell-tale signs of a modern kitchen island. But don't let these contemporary design elements limit your imagination.

One of the easiest ways to add modern flair to the kitchen island: choose a signature color (think tangerine orange or lipstick red) to distinguish the space.

Whether or not that color is repeated in another kitchen design element is up to you—there's no rule that says an island's counter (or color) needs to match its counterparts on the perimeter of the kitchen.

Employing a monochromatic palette, such as a white-on-white, all-black or warm wood, is another way to add contemporary character to the kitchen island. If a monochromatic style feels too dramatic for your space, there are plenty of high-contrast ways to incorporate modern touches. Think polished wood or stainless steel used as an accent on the base of the island or in place of trim.

Next Up

How to Build a DIY Kitchen Island on Wheels

Need some extra workspace in your kitchen? Build a rolling island for added functionality and style. One side stores a stand mixer, sheet pans, cutting boards and more, while the other side allows for extra seating. Perfect for small spaces, this portable kitchen island easily rolls out when you need it and neatly tucks away when you don’t.

How to Build a Grilling Island

Create an outdoor kitchen by nestling a gas grill into a custom-built, granite-topped island.

Modern Kitchen Cabinets

Learn about the different options of modern kitchen cabinets and how they translate into a spacious and airy dream kitchen.

Granite Countertop Colors

Don't mistake granite for just any old stone—this surface is available in a variety of colors, making it a suitable option for any number of kitchen designs.

Small & Modern Kitchen Design Ideas

Learn from experts how to boost style and spaciousness with modern decor and a layout that includes sleek finishes, a monochromatic color palette and concealed storage.

White Granite Countertops

Pure and absolutely classic, white granite is the top choice in the traditional kitchen setting.

Dark Granite Countertops

Cool, sleek and completely modern, dark granite countertops can add a touch of sophistication to any kitchen area.

Tour Jazz Artist Mathew V's Modern, Airy Apartment and Shop His Favorite Pieces

The chart-topping musician's Vancouver apartment riffs on clean design from neutral palettes to sleek, modern silhouettes. Step inside for a tour and shop the look with items from CB2, Anthropologie and more.

French Kitchen Islands

If you are thinking of saying "oui" to a French kitchen design, then it's important for your kitchen island to match your style.

Kitchen Island Legs

Without its legs, a kitchen island wouldn't have two "feet" to stand upon. Here's how to find the best ones for your design.

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