Kitchen islands are undergoing a revival in popularity for 2018. Although it’s never been off-trend as such, the focus now is on pushing the creative parameters of the island unit. How can it be a talking point and a multi-tasking workstation at one time? Read on to discover 10 applications that will open up a whole range of possibilites when it comes to designing an island for your kitchen…
Just wow! This all-singing, all-dancing kitchen island seems to form most of the kitchen and has many functionalities. Ideally placed to define the kitchen area in an open plan living space, it features oversized industrial pendants, and uses matching cupboard-fronts to tie it in to the rest of the kitchen. With a bar/eating area at one end, and a food-prep station at the other, the centre of this giant kitchen island houses a sink area and plenty of extra cupboard space. Quite an impressive style statement, right?
The Stylish Go-between
Once again, serving as a perfect transition between a dining space and kitchen area, this sophisticated light grey island is a cleverly considered design move. The drawer-fronts match the rest of the kitchen, but are a light grey instead of white, adding visual interest and setting off the silver handles and white worktops to perfection. We love how the little details have been thought through in this kitchen space; the bar stools in the same material as the dining chairs, those beautiful glass pendants, and of course the antiqued mirror splashback, all go to create a light-filled and stylish entertaining space.
The Sleek Modern
This minimalist white island creates an architectural centrepiece for a modern kitchen. Although not seemingly full of functionalities, it serves as a seating area, and provides extra worktop and cupboard space. The white gloss finish ties in with the worktops, and is illuminated by an overhead skylight. Ambient lighting choices and a wooden floor soften the overall look of the kitchen.
The Icon
Certainly not for everyone, a sculptural island along these lines would really cause your guests to stop in their tracks! Aside from looking good, sinks or induction hobs could be incorporated in the design without detracting from it’s ‘hewn-from-stone’ look. Hang a couple of pendants asymmetrically over the island, and have the champagne out ready…you’re onto a winner!
The Country Kitchen Island
Thought your kitchen was too small for an island? Think again! This tasteful kitchen manages to pull it around without feeling cramped or tight for space… A beautiful heritage grey keeps the look soft and neutral, whilst complementing the stone floor and original beams. Marble worktops add a touch of unexpected luxury and tie the whole kitchen together.
The Bar-cum-Island
While many kitchen islands have provision for bar stools to be pulled up, this one takes it further with a built in bottle rack. Other islands include drinks fridges, glass storage or even in-built herb gardens (see ‘interesting patinas’ in our recent blog post here)! Perfect for socialising or conversing while a meal is being prepared, this concept takes the humble kitchen island to a whole new level.
The Dark Dramatic
Incorporating a sink and hob, as well as worktop space, this is a functional island at it’s best… but it just goes about it in a very different style! Deep inky hues cover the walls and cupboards front of this intriguing space, plunging it into a darkness normally unheard of in a kitchen space. Hints of brass, a cascading chandelier, and a reflective shelving unit over the island stop it from going too far into the dark side, and instead create an atmospheric stage for the chef to perform their magic. Hopefully you can see what you’re eating…
The Refined Rustic
Everything about this kitchen design says quality and timeless style. We love how elements from living spaces have been incorporated into the design – a crackling fire, candlesticks and an area rug all make the kitchen feel relaxed and homely. Being such a large space, the island’s potential has really been maximised with an oven and many drawers built into it, topped by a sturdy wooden worktop. It is also used as a casual eating area, with space to comfortably seat six around it…
The Out-of-the-box
We all know the basic capabilities of a kitchen island, but who says it’s always got to look the same? This creatively configured island shakes up tradition by using a curved slab of wood as a designated chopping area, doubling up as a seating area by overhanging the island. The open shelving is also a practical and decorative addition to display pans, cookery books or the best dinnerware.
The Timeless
White marble worktops, copper hardware, and a Belfast sink… Inspired by traditional English kitchen finishes and fittings, this cleverly designed island includes it all! A result of intense attention to detail and quality finishes – this island would make a truly spectacular feature in a shaker-style kitchen.