Vintage Kitchen Islands

Vintage kitchen islands come in a range of decorative options, including inventive do-it-yourself designs.
Industrial modern designed kitchen island with oval sink and two large drawers for storage.

Vintage kitchen island design

Industrial modern designed kitchen island with oval sink and two large drawers for storage.

By: Caroline Shannon-Karasik

These days it seems everything from fashion to back-to-school notebooks are being influenced by the decorative, ornate style associated with vintage designs – and the home is no exception. That's why when it comes to choosing a vintage kitchen island for your kitchen, the options are plentiful.

Find Your Favorite Kitchen Style

See All Photos

Shop This Look

If you are looking for an island with wood cabinetry, then you may want to consider painting it a pale color, then pairing it with a white or light wood countertop to give it a vintage look. Consider painting cabinets a pale yellow or blue, or use a whitewash to give the wood a weathered, antique look.

Other vintage kitchen islands use repurposed furniture pieces to create an island. Try painting an old dresser or desk before choosing a counter surface to turn it into an island. You might also purchase vintage-inspired knobs and handles from home design stores to give the island a finished look. Other creative designs have repurposed a drafting table or set of filing cabinets to create a vintage kitchen island.

If you are seeking seating at your kitchen island, then consider retro bar stools made from solid, bright-hued fabrics or a vintage-inspired pattern.

Next Up

Kitchen Island Countertops

What you need to know to choose the best surface for your kitchen island.

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.

New Kitchen Cabinet Doors

Get all the info you need on new kitchen cabinet doors, a great way to update your kitchen without breaking the bank.

Inexpensive Backsplash Ideas

Get all the info you'll need on inexpensive backsplash ideas, and get ready to install an attractive and economical backsplash in your home.

Resurfacing Kitchen Cabinets

Resurfacing kitchen cabinets gives your kitchen a much-needed facelift without the hassles of a complete remodel.

How to Pick a Kitchen Backsplash

Get tips on how to find a backsplash that meets your needs and expresses your personality.

Lazy Susan Cabinets

Brush up on Lazy Susan cabinets, and learn how you can add this efficient storage feature to your kitchen cabinet design.

Kitchen Cabinet Options

Learn about the different options for kitchen cabinets and decide what's right for your home based on your budget and style.

Updating Kitchen Cabinets

Updating kitchen cabinets transforms your kitchen into a gathering place for the whole family.

Go Shopping

Get product recommendations from HGTV editors, plus can’t-miss sales and deals.

On TV

Follow Us Everywhere

Join the party! Don't miss HGTV in your favorite social media feeds.