Introduction
Kitchen islands are extremely popular in modern home designs. An island can provide additional counter space, seating, and storage to a kitchen. Islands make kitchens more efficient and enjoyable to cook and entertain in.
When designing or remodeling a kitchen, adding an island opens up many exciting design possibilities. The placement, size, and features of a kitchen island can completely transform the look and function of the space. An island is one of the most dramatic “before and after” changes you can make in a kitchen remodel.
In this article, we will look at stunning kitchen island before and after transformation ideas. We’ll explore clever island design tips to maximize your kitchen layout. Let’s get inspired by the amazing difference an island can make!
Clever Island Placement
One of the first decisions in island design is placement. The location of the island impacts the kitchen work triangle and traffic flow. Islands can be placed in the center of the kitchen or against a wall or peninsula.
Center Island
A center island is a classic option to open up the kitchen space. It creates a natural barrier between the kitchen zones while allowing traffic to move fluidly around it. Center islands make great casual dining spots and add prime real estate for extra seating.
Floating the island away from other cabinetry maximizes openness and legroom around the island. Allow at least 42 inches of circulation area on all sides. Measure your kitchen dimensions and use painter’s tape to block out different island shapes and sizes before permanently installing.
Wall Island
A wall or peninsula island is nestled between base cabinets or built off an existing peninsula. This layout creates a more enclosed kitchen. It offers a side people can sit at without being in the middle of the workflow.
Wall islands often have open shelving on one side to serve as an easy-access pantry. Place frequently used ingredients and dishes on the open shelves for convenience. Try incorporating electrical outlets into the island frame for handy appliance storage.
Island Size
When sizing your island, bigger is not always better. A huge island can make the kitchen feel closed off. Aim for functionality over flare by determining the right footprint for your needs.
As a general rule, allow for at least 1 – 2 feet of countertop space around each side with seating. Common island dimensions are 4×4 feet up to 9×5 feet. But anything larger than 6×6 feet will dominate most home kitchens.
Consider traffic flow, furnishings, and storage needs when deciding on island proportions. An L-shaped or rectangular island may suit your space better than a square.
Before and After Island Shape Upgrades
From basic squares and rectangles to unique multi-sided polygons, island shapes set the tone for your kitchen’s style. The configuration possibilities are endless!
Let’s look at some exciting before and after island shape transformations.
Square to Round Island
Square islands are the most common default shape in traditional kitchen layouts. A square island with four 90-degree corners provides maximize usable counter space.
But a round island can deliver visual impact while softening kitchen lines. Changing a boxy square island to a circular one brings an elegant, classic vibe to the room.
A round island needs adequate floor space all around for seating. Make sure to allow a 42+ inch walkway on all sides so the circulation doesn’t feel cramped.
Adding curved edges to a square island is another way to introduce pretty line details. An oval island has a similar open shape but may fit better in narrow galley kitchens.
One Long Island to Two Tiered Islands
Working with an existing narrow galley kitchen? Try breaking up one elongated island into two smaller tiered islands. Removing a portion in the middle can improve kitchen traffic flow.
Two shorter islands across from each other create a natural walking path between the islands. Each island can have overhang space for bar stool seating.
Using two separate island levels allows you to customize the height. Opt for a standard 36-inch counter height on one island for prep space. Then make the other counter 42 inches tall for quick casual meals and entertaining.
Peninsula to Symmetrical Islands
Turning a kitchen peninsula into an island instantly opens up the room. Take it a step further by balancing it with a matching island on the opposite side.
Creating two symmetric islands makes the kitchen layout feel expansive and organized. The parallel islands establish a clear focal point to anchor the space.
Add stylish pendant lights above the islands to define the prepping and dining zone. Open shelving or glass cabinet doors maintain visibility and airflow throughout the kitchen.
One Island to Two Smaller Islands
Do you have an oversized island dominating your kitchen? Reconfigure it into two smaller islands for a friendlier scale.
A massive island can make a kitchen feel dark and closed off. By dividing it into two smaller footprints, you recapture openness. Positioning islands across from each other forms a natural walking path.
Smaller islands are also more comfortable to cook and dine around. Make sure to allow for ample circulation space between the islands and surrounding cabinetry.
Peninsula with Open Shelving to Shaker Island
Switching from a peninsula to an island allows traffic to flow around easily. Exchanging the peninsula’s open shelving for a Shaker-style island elevates the traditional look.
Shaker islands have a timeless simplicity with recessed panel doors and minimal hardware. The smooth sides and straight lines keep visual clutter at bay.
For a light and airy vibe, stick to painted Shaker cabinetry in a crisp white or pale color. Add architectural interest with glass cabinet doors to break up the cabinetry.
Island Cabinetry Makeovers
The cabinetry finish, hardware, and detailing create an island’s unique style. Let’s explore exciting “before and after” upgrades to refresh your island’s look!
Oak Cabinets to White Shaker Cabinets
Nothing updates tired oak cabinets like fresh white Shaker style. The clean lines provide a light and airy feel that opens up the whole kitchen.
Crisp white paint gives the cabinetry a seamless built-in look. For a bit of contrast, keep the island counters dark or vice versa. Add glass cabinet doors to prevent it from feeling too uniform.
Modern square pull hardware in brushed nickel or black finishes gives the Shaker cabinets a minimalist touch. Paint the island shelves and open backs the same white for a cohesive monochromatic island design.
Cherry Wood to Two-Tone Cabinets
Cherry wood cabinets tend to visually dominate a kitchen with their warm reddish tones. Take them down a notch with a stylish two-tone paint treatment.
Painting the island cabinets a light driftwood or greige tone softens their presence. Then use charcoal gray on the lower cabinets to visually anchor the island.
The combo of soft driftwood uppers and moody gray base cabinets creates depth and dimension. Keep surfaces and accents light to prevent heaviness.
White Cabinets to Navy Blue Cabinets
All-white kitchens are a top trend, but stark white everywhere can also feel sterile and flat. Inject personality into your white kitchen with a bold navy blue island!
Navy island cabinets make a dramatic style statement and become the focal point. Contrast them with bright white countertops and open shelving for a fresh pop of color.
For smaller kitchens, use navy on the lower cabinets only. Pair with white uppers and brass accents for a classic nautical vibe. Add texture with natural butcher block counters.
Mismatched Cabinets to All-Wood
If your kitchen island has an eclectic mix of styles going on, create cohesion with wood cabinetry. Choose a warm wood species like knotty alder or hickory to tie various elements together.
Using all-wood cabinetry introduces natural texture and personality to the space. Opt for a lighter whitewashed or drifted stain to keep it airy.
Incorporate architectural interest by mixing recessed panel doors, open shelving, glass cabinet fronts, and surface mounted cabinets. Carry wood tones throughout with wooden counters.
Island Countertop Transformations
A kitchen island’s countertop finish sets the tone for the whole room’s aesthetic. Switch out drab countertops for one of these inspiring island “before and after” looks.
Tile Countertop to Marble Slab
Tiled countertops easily get dated and high-maintenance with all those grout lines. Switching to a stunning marble slab island transforms the look instantly.
Marble makes a luxurious and elegant statement in any kitchen. The natural veining patterns create movement and interest on the island. Stick to white, gray, or soft neutral marble that won’t clash with cabinet colors.
Sealing the marble properly helps avoid staining and etching. Use large marble tile backsplash and waterfall edges to extend the marble from counters to cabinets.
Laminate to Butcher Block Island
Laminate countertops are affordable and available in unlimited colors. But their plasticky finish lacks design flair. Warm up your kitchen with the beauty of butcher block counters.
Wood islands inject natural texture and feel into the kitchen. Opt for topped end-grain butcher block made from maple, walnut, or acacia wood. Teak’s natural water-resistance also works well.
Use food-safe finishing oils on the butcher block regularly to protect and condition the wood. The handsome grain and rich color make it an instant focal point.
Granite Countertops to White Quartz
Granite is a classic kitchen countertop, but very dark speckled granite can make a kitchen feel heavy. Lighten it up with crisp white quartz island counters.
Sleek white quartz has the luxe look of marble without the maintenance. The bright white bounces light around the kitchen for an airy vibe. Add a subtle quartz pattern for visual interest.
White quartz pairs beautifully with white Shaker cabinets, brass accents, and marble backsplash. Use a matching white quartz waterfall island edge to create a seamless, built-in look.
Mismatched Materials to Concrete
Do mismatched countertop materials make your kitchen feel disjointed? Concrete has an organic look that can blend it all together stylishly.
Stained and sealed concrete counters have rugged good looks. The matte texture and mottled color patterns add natural drama. Use ground and textured concrete for more stone-like pattern variations.
Pair concrete island counters with a slate backsplash and aged bronze hardware for an earthy modern kitchen. The natural gray tones work with any cabinetry from white to wood.
Creative Island Storage Solutions
Islands can never have too much storage! Maximize every inch of your island real estate with these savvy storage upgrades.
Open Shelving to Enclosed Cabinets
Islands tend to utilize open shelving for a light and airy look. But all that visual clutter can make a kitchen feel disorganized. Adding enclosed storage compartments streamlines the island’s appearance.
Shaker-style cabinets maintain the clean simplicity of open shelves but hide stored items. Incorporate glass-front cabinet doors to preserve the open sightlines.
Try drawers for shallow storage needs like utensils and cutting boards. Drawers keep items accessible but out of view. Top with marble or quartz for a luxe furnished island.
No Drawers to Deep Drawers
Many homeowners overlook the storage potential below their islands. Make the most of this prime space by installing deep roll-out drawers for maximum storage capacity.
Large roll-out drawers can hold baking sheets, pots and pans, and small appliances. Optimize the drawer layout with organizers and partitions too.
Under-island drawers should have heavy-duty full extension glides to support the weight. Consider drawer fronts with ventilation slots to prevent moisture buildup.
No Island to Storage Island
Lacking sufficient storage space in your kitchen? Convert an empty section of floor space into a dedicated storage island.
Build an island with a fully customized drawer and cabinet layout to fit your needs. Incorporate specialty pull-outs like spice racks,appliance garages, and wine racks.
Make sure to leave at least 12 inches of counter space on one side for meal prep. But focus the majority of the footprint on maximizing storage capacity. Then keep the island finish simple to recede—not distract—visually.
Open Shelves to Glass-Front Cabinets
While they look pretty, open shelves on islands get dusty and cluttered easily. Enclose shelves with glass-front cabinet doors to control the visual clutter.
Glass cabinet fronts maintain light and visibility while protecting shelf contents. Use frosted, textured, or smoked glass options for more privacy.
Illuminate glass cabinet interiors with puck lights or LED strips to spotlight dishes and decor. Try glass-front cabinets on just the top portion to preserve some open storage below.
Stylish Island Seating Solutions
One of the biggest benefits of a kitchen island is extra seating! Here are some “before and after” updates to make your island seating more stylish and functional.
No Seating to Barstool Seating
Any kitchen island over 36 inches high should incorporate seating. Adding barstools opens up valuable dining space for everything from homework to wine nights.
Allow at least 15 inches of overhang for pulled-out barstools. Swivel stools make conversation easy but take up more space when not pushed in.
Match your barstools to the island shape for optimal fit. Curved-back stools suit a round or oval island. Square stools fit a rectangular island better visually.
Bench Seating to Individual Stools
Benches maximize seating capacity on islands but don’t work well for dining. Replacing a bench with individual barstools makes for a more usable eating spot.
Barstools promote face-to-face conversation and allow people to sit in a more relaxed position. They also slide under the island when not in use to save space.
If your island is over 42 inches high, install a footrest for barstool seating. This allows guests to comfortably enjoy meals and hang out at the island.
Backless Stools to Stools with Backs
Perching on backless island stools can get uncomfortable after a while. Upgrade to counter stools with back support for superior comfort.
Look for barstools with curved backs to tuck under the edge of raised islands. Low-back stools are ideal if ceiling height is limited.
Upholstered, padded seats with nailhead accents add comfort and classic style. Make sure the seat height coordinates with your island counter height.
Mismatched Stools to Custom Banquette
Do you have a hodgepodge of old stools circling your kitchen island? Create a unified look with a custom banquette bench.
Wrap banquette seating around one side of the island for an integrated look. Add plush cushions and throw pillows for inviting comfort.
A banquette with a large bench pad and comfy back support provides superior dining comfort. Under-bench storage drawers maximize space efficiency too.
Beautiful Island Pendant Lighting
The right lighting takes your island from drab to dramatic. Check out these sensational pendant lighting updates!
No Lighting to Single Linear Pendant
Any kitchen island needs proper illumination for tasks and ambiance. An island with no lighting feels dark and incomplete.
Start with a single statement pendant in a finish that complements the kitchen decor. Linear island pendants work well to spotlight prep space.
Position the pendant light centered over the main work zone of the island. A pendant height of 28-34 inches above the counter is ideal.
Flush Mount Light to Double Pendants
Overhead flush mount lights fail to illuminate island counters properly. Swapping in a pair of pendant lights makes a world of difference!
Double pendants cast broad ambient lighting across the whole island surface. They also provide directional task lighting for food prep duties.
Opt for matching pendant fixtures sized and spaced appropriately over the island. Place pendants 30 inches apart center-to-center for optimal coverage.
Small Pendants to Extra Large Drum
When one small pendant isn’t cutting it, go big with a large drum-shaped island light. An oversized pendant makes a huge impact over an expansive island.
Extra large drum pendants measuring 20 inches wide or more make a commanding design statement. They create a focal point in open floor plan kitchens.
Ensure the pendant hangs at an appropriate height. Counter height plus 12-18 inches is ideal. Consider a dimmable pendant to control brightness.
Mismatched Pendants to Sputnik Chandelier
Tying together different pendant styles can be tricky. Make a bold style move with a Sputnik-inspired island chandelier.
The iconic Sputnik shape makes a dramatic style statement as a single statement light. It complements both classic and contemporary kitchen designs.
Look for Sputnik pendants with multiple bulbs or arms to cast enough usable task lighting onto the island below.
Inspiring Two-Tiered Island Designs
Creating a two-tiered island opens up exciting design possibilities! Here are some incredible before and after examples.
One Level Island to Two-Tiered Island
Introduce dimensional interest by converting your one-level island into a two-tiered design. Vary the tier depths for greater visual impact.
A deeper lower tier provides ample storage and conceals stools when not in use. The shallow upper tier offers a perfect spot for quick meals.
Two-tier islands appear more built-in and polished. Define each section with different finishes like a marble-topped dining tier and wood-topped prep tier.
Low Island to Raised Bar Height
Does your current island feel too low for comfortably enjoying meals? Increase the second tier to 42-inch bar height.
Adding an elevated dining tier transforms the island into a casual eat-in spot. Use the lower tier for food prep tasks.
Include pendant lighting over the raised tier to spotlight the dining surface. Add a low railing or vertical supports for safety and visual separation.
Square Island to Curved Two-Tier
Break up boxy lines with a two-tier island featuring rounded curves and edges. The softer shape feels more organic and approachable.
A curved upper tier with bar/dining height invites guests to gather. Support it with a squared lower tier for visual contrast and stability.