5 Beautiful Yet Functional Kitchen Islands

Updated on: August 01, 2022

A kitchen island is a must-have for most when considering the design of their new kitchen. An island is meant to be multi-functional, serving as additional storage, counter space, and a casual place to eat.

At Cabinets.com, we get many requests for kitchens that include islands and below are some of our favorites…

1. Maximum Counter Space

This kitchen is perfect for a family! The wall cabinets house most of the appliances and provide ample storage. The island helps complete the kitchen “work triangle” and has a large countertop area that provides space for food prep with plenty of room to spare for people to sit on the opposite side and not be imposing on the chef. One of the most popular design requests is for the island cabinet to extend beyond the seating area and a recess is provided for stools. This allows for more countertop space in the kitchen while not sacrificing room for counter stools.

Island Cabinets - Springfield Maple Charcoal Brushed Black Glaze

2. An Opportunity for Detail

The kitchen island can also be an opportunity to add a layer of detail to your kitchen. This customer wanted to add a touch of paneling to their space, but didn’t want it to overpower the entire room. With this detail added on just the island, it stands out and makes a statement.

Island Cabinets - Shaker II Maple Creek Stone

3. Dual Finish Kitchen

Gone are the days when everything has to be the same in the kitchen! The island doesn’t have to match the cabinets, but can coordinate to create a perfectly designed space. White cabinets are a natural choice for the perimeter of the kitchen. They provide a clean, classic appearance. The island is the perfect piece to change up from the rest of the room and make it stand out. This customer had gorgeous honey wood floors and the dark stained island highlights them and warms up the space.

Island Cabinets - Belleair Maple Pecan

4. Easy Breezy

Some customers want a lighter look to their island, but the large panels on each side definitely add weight and substance to the space. You can achieve the same benefits of added counter space and room for stools by replacing the large side cabinet pieces with decorative furniture-style posts.

Island Cabinets - Shaker II Maple Creek Stone

5. A Smaller Approach

Want more counter space from your island, but don’t have the room to add the large side panels or posts? You can still gain a few inches of counter space with the addition of decorative corbels on each side. These corbels are not only functional, but also they add a traditional appeal to a kitchen.

Island Cabinets - Springfield Maple Espresso

If after all these great ideas you're still stuck on making a decision about your kitchen island, then it's time to call in some expert help! It's all about designing the kitchen of your dreams and you deserve a beautiful and functional kitchen island in it!