Inspiring Kitchen Island Ideas To Transform Your Space
Columbus, OH

Inspiring Kitchen Island Ideas To Transform Your Space

Columbus, OH

Inspiring Kitchen Island Ideas To Transform Your Space


Get free estimates for your project or view our cost guide below:

Get free estimates for your project or view our cost guide below:
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Tamatha Hazen
Written by
Tamatha Hazen
Edited by
Tara Farmer
Fact-checked by
Kristen Cramer

Kitchen island ideas to enhance your space

A kitchen island is often the hub of the home, serving as a gathering place for family and friends. With a range of styles and materials available, you can create an island that fits your needs and enhances your kitchen's design. Add some flavor to your kitchen with these inspiring island ideas!

Oversized island

Oversized islands are a game-changer for spacious kitchens, offering ample workspace and functionality. Use marble to indulge your love of baking, as its cool surface is ideal for rolling dough. Or consider quartz for food prep which offers better durability, scratch resistance, and low maintenance.

A sleek modern kitchen with two-tone cabinets and a large island
A sleek modern kitchen with two-tone cabinets and a large island

Wonderful waterfall edges

Waterfall edge islands are a showstopper in any kitchen! By extending the countertop material down the sides, they create a stunning visual effect that resembles a flowing waterfall. This design beautifully showcases materials like granite or quartzite, adding a sleek, modern touch to elevate your kitchen's overall aesthetic.

Corian Quartz kitchen countertops and island with waterfall sides.
Corian Quartz kitchen countertops and island with waterfall sides.

Family-friendly fun

Creating a family-friendly kitchen is all about encouraging togetherness. By incorporating a table space in your kitchen island, you invite everyone to gather for meals, homework, and game night fun. Pendant lights above add both style and illumination, while built-in storage keeps games and essentials neatly tucked away.

A remodeled kitchen with white cabinets, a large island with a dining extension, and pendant lighting
A remodeled kitchen with white cabinets, a large island with a dining extension, and pendant lighting

Two-tone trend

Looking to add some flair to your kitchen? An island that differs in color from the rest of the kitchen creates visual contrast and depth. Whether installing a new island or refacing the cabinets on your existing one, this two-tone trend lets you play with colors that look great together and reflect your unique style.

A kitchen with white cabinets, an island painted a contrasting blue color, and stylish pendant lights
A kitchen with white cabinets, an island painted a contrasting blue color, and stylish pendant lights

Butcher block beauty

Imagine coming home to a rustic but elegant kitchen where a stunning butcher block island welcomes you with warmth and charm! The rich wood tones beautifully complement rustic features like exposed beams and farmhouse sinks, creating a space that feels like a comforting retreat.

Kitchen with butcher block countertops and island, white cabinets, and open shelving
Kitchen with butcher block countertops and island, white cabinets, and open shelving

Pops of painted cabinets

Want to energize your kitchen? Consider adding painted cabinets to your island for a pop of color that instantly brightens up the space. Whether you go for bold, eye-catching hues or soft, soothing pastels, painted cabinets can turn an ordinary island into a stunning focal point, even in the coziest kitchens.

A colorful mobile island in a home's kitchen
A colorful mobile island in a home's kitchen

Classic kitchen

Step into a classic kitchen where a stunning marble island exudes timeless elegance! The natural veining adds unique character, while its cool surface is perfect for baking. Pairing marble countertops with classic cabinetry and a simple subway tile backsplash enhances the traditional charm, for a kitchen that feels just right.

A newly remodeled kitchen with white cabinets and an island with marble countertops.
A newly remodeled kitchen with white cabinets and an island with marble countertops.

Farmhouse flair

A farmhouse kitchen island featuring an apron sink embodies rustic charm and practicality. The deep sink is perfect for washing large pots and pans while adding character to the overall design. A vintage-style faucet with a high arc in a matte black or oil-rubbed bronze finish completes this rustic aesthetic.

A kitchen island with a farmhouse apron sink
A kitchen island with a farmhouse apron sink

Scandinavian serenity

Scandinavian kitchen designs blend simplicity and functionality, creating a serene atmosphere. With clean lines and a neutral color palette, these kitchen islands often feature natural wood accents that add warmth, along with smart storage solutions for a clean aesthetic.

Scandinavian kitchen style with clean lines and neutral wood tones
Scandinavian kitchen style with clean lines and neutral wood tones

Industrial innovation

Picture an industrial stainless steel island countertop that brings a bold, modern vibe to your kitchen! This sleek surface not only looks stunning but also stands up to the demands of daily life. With its impressive stain resistance and easy-to-clean properties, it's the perfect choice for busy kitchens.

Kitchen island with stainless steel countertop.
Kitchen island with stainless steel countertop.

Kitchen island on the move

Mobile kitchen islands are the ultimate versatile solution for modern cooking spaces. With wheels for easy maneuverability, they can be relocated to suit your needs, whether for meal prep, extra storage, or entertaining. Their compact design and multifunctionality make them perfect for small kitchens, adding both style and convenience to any culinary adventure!

A kitchen with green cabinets and a mobile island with built-in shelving
A kitchen with green cabinets and a mobile island with built-in shelving

Eco-chic elegance

Sleek, modern kitchen islands featuring recycled glass are a stylish and eco-friendly option. This material not only adds a vibrant splash of color but also promotes sustainability in design. Recycled glass countertops can be crafted into stunning contemporary designs that are durable and easy to maintain.

Kitchen with recycled glass countertops made by Vetrazzo.
Kitchen with recycled glass countertops made by Vetrazzo.
Get free estimates from kitchen remodelers near you.

Getting estimates from kitchen island installers

Kitchen island costs can vary significantly based on the island's size, materials, and features, along with your current kitchen's condition and layout. Here are some tips to help you get the best estimates from kitchen island installers near you:

  • Contact several installers for estimates to compare.

  • Clearly outline what you want in your kitchen island. Include details about size, materials (like granite or wood), and any additional features such as sinks or electrical outlets.

  • Be aware that plumbing and electrical work will add to your total cost.

  • Confirm the installers are licensed and insured.

  • Ask about warranties on both the installation work and the materials used.

  • Check local regulations to confirm whether your project requires permits to avoid any legal issues during or after installation.

A beautiful remodeled kitchen with hardwood floors, a custom range hood, open shelving, and a large island with seating and elegant pendant lights
A beautiful remodeled kitchen with hardwood floors, a custom range hood, open shelving, and a large island with seating and elegant pendant lights

Questions to ask a kitchen island installer

Ask installers these questions to ensure a smooth process and good results:

  • What is your experience with kitchen island installations?

  • Can you provide references and examples of past work?

  • Are you licensed, bonded, and insured?

  • Can you provide your state license number?

  • What warranties do you offer for your work and materials?

  • What is included in your estimate?

  • What is the estimated timeline for completion?

  • Will you handle the necessary permits and inspections?

  • How do you manage potential delays?

  • Who will be working on my project?