Kitchen Island Options

Design a kitchen island that's as stylish as it is practical for your space.
Black and White Kitchen With Striped Countertop

Black and White Open Plan Kitchen With Striped Countertop

There is elegance in spades when it comes to this Chanel-inspired open plan kitchen, starting with the black backsplash and the dazzling gold range hood. Twin chandeliers light the way over the zebra-striped island countertop. A quartet of gold-and-black stools finish the posh look.

Photo by: French Blue Photography

French Blue Photography

Designing the perfect kitchen island—one that best accommodates the needs of not only your space but also your family—can feel overwhelming.

100 Beautiful Kitchen Island Inspiration Ideas

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Kitchen island options are endless: counter-height or bar-height breakfast bar; open shelving for display or cabinets with drawers for storage; extra sink or cooktop. And each decision informs another.

Installing a cooktop in the kitchen island, for example, means you'll need to add a hood overhead—along with the appropriate ventilation. As you evaluate your needs, understand that placement here is key.

If you're building in appliances like a dishwasher, you'll want the cabinets in which you store the servingware close by. If you're specifying other bells and whistles, like a warming drawer, microwave oven or under-counter refrigerator, make sure there's enough countertop space above to place a hot bowl without spilling, or place a few cold drinks when guests pull up a seat.

Beyond built-in, storage and counter options, determine if your kitchen allows enough room for seating, whether at a table-style island or breakfast bar.

When friends, family members or guests can pull up a chair (or stool) and stay a while, seating at the kitchen island becomes a necessary luxury, allowing the cook to stay in the conversation, help with homework, or request help with prep work—any cook's dream.

Next Up

Kitchen Island Countertops

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

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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.

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

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

Kitchen Cabinet Refacing

Get all the info you'll need on kitchen cabinet refacing, and ensure your kitchen cabinet makeover will be a stylish success.

Painting Kitchen Backsplashes

Find out everything you need to know about painting your kitchen backsplash, plus our favorite techniques to inspire your next DIY project.

Replacing Kitchen Cabinet Doors

Replacing your kitchen cabinet doors can breathe new life into an outdated kitchen. See our tips below on how to give your kitchen a facelift without spending a fortune.

Resurfacing Kitchen Cabinets

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

Updating Kitchen Cabinets

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

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