Kitchen Island Designs - Southern Living

Photo: Laurey W. Glenn

Architectureal Details

An island is a good place to add architectural details like decorative brackets.

Laurey W. Glenn / Leigh Anne Montgomery

Seamless Construction

You can be creative and custom when selecting materials for your island. Wrapped in three slabs of limestone, this island has very clean, modern lines.

Decorative Cut-Out

A decorative countertop edge adds style and softens the corners of an island.

Freestanding Furniture

Not ready to commit to a built-in? Use a freestanding furniture piece as an island. This allows you more flexibility, and the open base has a lighter look than an enclosed model.

Photo by Laurey W. Glenn

Contrasting Colors

Don’t feel obligated to use the same finishes on the island as you use on the cabinets. Here, a bright blue paint and copper countertop highlights the island.

Contemporary

Use modern materials like stainless steel to accent an island with a contemporary edge.

Cottage Casual

Vintage-inspired materials like beaded board give a new kitchen a sense of history.

Laurey W. Glenn/ Styling Leigh Anne Montgomery

Clear View

An open island gives you quick visual access to all of your pots and pans.

Photo: Erik Johnson

Moveable

For a more versatile workspace, put your island on locking casters.

Laurey W. Glenn

Two Levels

You can separate your prep area and eating space by terracing your island. When you have help in the kitchen, pull the chairs away for a workspace of a more kid-friendly height.

Photography Van Chaplin, Charles Walton IV / Styling Buffy Hargett

Practical Ideas

Here’s a few more things that you might want to consider including in your island design:
Avoid draping cords across walkways by installing electrical outlets in your island.
A built-in wine chiller is a convenient feature for entertaining.
Install a microwave underneath the island surface.

Want More?
See more kitchen island ideas in our Kitchen Islands video.

Stylish Island Ideas