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Not only is a kitchen island one of the hardest working elements in a cook's quarters (hello, extra counter space and storage) but, as these inspiring rooms prove, it can add heaps of character and style to an otherwise standard space. Here are 25 designs you'll want to duplicate.
Kitchens
25 Show-Stopping Kitchen Islands You'll Want to Replicate
August 8, 2017
Not only is a kitchen island one of the hardest working elements in a cook's quarters (hello, extra counter space and storage) but, as these inspiring rooms prove, it can add heaps of character and style to an otherwise standard space. Here are 25 designs you'll want to duplicate.
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By the Book
1/25By the Book
1/25Photo Credit: Jeremy Kohm Source: jeremykohm.com
Aspiring chefs and cookbook collectors, this one's for you. Designed by Toronto-based boutique firm <a href="http://www.palmerston.ca/" target="_blank">Palmerston Design</a>, the custom island doubles as a bookcase, adding a healthy hit of colour to the otherwise neutral space. The chunky Statuario marble top tempers all the wood, while the island base was stained to match the red oak flooring.Kitchens25 Show-Stopping Kitchen Islands You'll Want to ReplicateBy the Book
PHOTO 1 of 25READ LESS -Aspiring chefs and cookbook collectors, this one's for you. Designed by Toronto-based boutique firm <a href="http://www.palmerston.ca/" target="_blank">Palmerston Design</a>, the custom island doubles as a bookcase, adding a healthy hit of colour to the otherwise neutral space. The chunky Statuario marble top tempers all the wood, while the island base was stained to match the red oak flooring.Photo Credit: Jeremy Kohm Source: jeremykohm.com
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Room to Grow
2/25Room to Grow
2/25Photo Credit: Lisa Petrole Source: www.lisapetrole.com
This standout kitchen (also by Toronto's <a href="http://www.palmerston.ca/" target="_blank">Palmerson Design</a>) is modern, eclectic and highly functional. The dining area's bench can slide into the island until it's completely out of sight, while the table can lock into the island for an integrated look, or slide out to accommodate more guests.Kitchens25 Show-Stopping Kitchen Islands You'll Want to ReplicateRoom to Grow
PHOTO 2 of 25READ LESS -This standout kitchen (also by Toronto's <a href="http://www.palmerston.ca/" target="_blank">Palmerson Design</a>) is modern, eclectic and highly functional. The dining area's bench can slide into the island until it's completely out of sight, while the table can lock into the island for an integrated look, or slide out to accommodate more guests.Photo Credit: Lisa Petrole Source: www.lisapetrole.com
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Glamour Shot
3/25Glamour Shot
3/25Photo Credit: Christopher Amaral Source: www.christopheramaral.com
When interior design star Genevieve Gorder overhauled her 1950's NYC apartment in 2014, she injected her signature soulful style into every square inch. We're coveting her kitchen's Calacatta Borghini marble island and backsplash with rich grey and gold veining, coupled with the ultra-bright woven stools. <a href="http://www.hgtv.ca/renovations/photos/genevieve-gorders-gorgeous-new-york-apartment-renovation-1051015/" target="_blank">Tour the entire space here</a>.Kitchens25 Show-Stopping Kitchen Islands You'll Want to ReplicateGlamour Shot
PHOTO 3 of 25READ LESS -When interior design star Genevieve Gorder overhauled her 1950's NYC apartment in 2014, she injected her signature soulful style into every square inch. We're coveting her kitchen's Calacatta Borghini marble island and backsplash with rich grey and gold veining, coupled with the ultra-bright woven stools. <a href="http://www.hgtv.ca/renovations/photos/genevieve-gorders-gorgeous-new-york-apartment-renovation-1051015/" target="_blank">Tour the entire space here</a>.Photo Credit: Christopher Amaral Source: www.christopheramaral.com
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Country Character
4/25Country Character
4/25Photo Credit: Darren Goldstein/DSG Photo
Give your kitchen island a dose of farmhouse flair with thoughtful details like wooden X-shaped side panels. We love the black industrial-style bar stools for a welcome hit of contrast. <a href="http://www.hgtv.ca/shows/property-brothers/photos/a-bright-and-beautiful-home-designed-to-satisfy-one-couples-conflicting-styles-1898977/" target="_blank">See here for the full reveal</a>.Kitchens25 Show-Stopping Kitchen Islands You'll Want to ReplicateCountry Character
PHOTO 4 of 25READ LESS -Give your kitchen island a dose of farmhouse flair with thoughtful details like wooden X-shaped side panels. We love the black industrial-style bar stools for a welcome hit of contrast. <a href="http://www.hgtv.ca/shows/property-brothers/photos/a-bright-and-beautiful-home-designed-to-satisfy-one-couples-conflicting-styles-1898977/" target="_blank">See here for the full reveal</a>.Photo Credit: Darren Goldstein/DSG Photo
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Coastal Cool
5/25Coastal Cool
5/25Photo Credit: Serena & LilySource: www.serenaandlily.com
It's not often you see a kitchen island decked out in bold wallpaper – but based on this space alone, it's only a matter of time until the trend gains traction. Love these coastal chic stools? Find them at Serena & Lily <a href="http://www.serenaandlily.com/riviera-bar-stool/m11576.html?color=Navy#start=11" target="_blank">here</a>.Kitchens25 Show-Stopping Kitchen Islands You'll Want to ReplicateCoastal Cool
PHOTO 5 of 25READ LESS -It's not often you see a kitchen island decked out in bold wallpaper – but based on this space alone, it's only a matter of time until the trend gains traction. Love these coastal chic stools? Find them at Serena & Lily <a href="http://www.serenaandlily.com/riviera-bar-stool/m11576.html?color=Navy#start=11" target="_blank">here</a>.Photo Credit: Serena & LilySource: www.serenaandlily.com
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Two Timer
6/25Two Timer
6/25Photo Credit: Photolux
More often than not, kitchen islands serve as both a prep space and an entertaining zone. Ottawa's <a href="http://designfirstinteriors.com/index.shtml" target="_blank">Design First Interiors</a> took this into consideration when designing this client's kitchen, cleverly adding a walnut bar top to separate the "dining" side from the grey quartz "cooking" side. Bonus: it makes a mega style statement.Kitchens25 Show-Stopping Kitchen Islands You'll Want to ReplicateTwo Timer
PHOTO 6 of 25READ LESS -More often than not, kitchen islands serve as both a prep space and an entertaining zone. Ottawa's <a href="http://designfirstinteriors.com/index.shtml" target="_blank">Design First Interiors</a> took this into consideration when designing this client's kitchen, cleverly adding a walnut bar top to separate the "dining" side from the grey quartz "cooking" side. Bonus: it makes a mega style statement.Photo Credit: Photolux
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Elevated Interest
7/25Elevated Interest
7/25Photo Credit: MetropolisPhotos
More evidence of <a href="http://designfirstinteriors.com/index.shtml" target="_blank">Design First Interiors</a>' design genius: this contemporary cooking space. The walnut butcher block island and elevated eating bar integrated into the countertop work together to add ample function and design flair.Kitchens25 Show-Stopping Kitchen Islands You'll Want to ReplicateElevated Interest
PHOTO 7 of 25READ LESS -More evidence of <a href="http://designfirstinteriors.com/index.shtml" target="_blank">Design First Interiors</a>' design genius: this contemporary cooking space. The walnut butcher block island and elevated eating bar integrated into the countertop work together to add ample function and design flair.Photo Credit: MetropolisPhotos
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Cobalt Blue
8/25Cobalt Blue
8/25Photo Credit: Darren Goldstein/DSG Photo
Looking to liven up your all-white cooking space with a jolt of colour? Coat your kitchen island in a bold shade like cobalt blue for a timeless focal point.Kitchens25 Show-Stopping Kitchen Islands You'll Want to ReplicateCobalt Blue
PHOTO 8 of 25READ LESS -Looking to liven up your all-white cooking space with a jolt of colour? Coat your kitchen island in a bold shade like cobalt blue for a timeless focal point.Photo Credit: Darren Goldstein/DSG Photo
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Marble Master
9/25Marble Master
9/25Photo Credit: Janis NicolaySource: janisnicolay.com
An earthy colour palette of soft green, white and wood adds character and calmness to this kitchen. The extra-spacious island, with its waterfall edge and built-in storage, is a dream for any busy household. Want to mimic the look? <a href="http://www.hgtv.ca/shows/love-it-or-list-it-vancouver/photos/a-redesigned-home-with-farmhouse-flair-becomes-a-retired-couples-oasis-1900909/" target="_blank">See here</a>.Kitchens25 Show-Stopping Kitchen Islands You'll Want to ReplicateMarble Master
PHOTO 9 of 25READ LESS -An earthy colour palette of soft green, white and wood adds character and calmness to this kitchen. The extra-spacious island, with its waterfall edge and built-in storage, is a dream for any busy household. Want to mimic the look? <a href="http://www.hgtv.ca/shows/love-it-or-list-it-vancouver/photos/a-redesigned-home-with-farmhouse-flair-becomes-a-retired-couples-oasis-1900909/" target="_blank">See here</a>.Photo Credit: Janis NicolaySource: janisnicolay.com
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Sitting Pretty
10/25Sitting Pretty
10/25Photo Credit: Merle ProsofskySource: www.prosofsky.com
While this classic kitchen by Edmonton-based <a href="http://effecthomes.ca/" target="_blank">Effect Home Builders</a> is predominately white, it entices and surprises thanks to its look-at-me island. The calming blue base and wood top are a striking combo... and how sleek is that integrated sink!Kitchens25 Show-Stopping Kitchen Islands You'll Want to ReplicateSitting Pretty
PHOTO 10 of 25READ LESS -While this classic kitchen by Edmonton-based <a href="http://effecthomes.ca/" target="_blank">Effect Home Builders</a> is predominately white, it entices and surprises thanks to its look-at-me island. The calming blue base and wood top are a striking combo... and how sleek is that integrated sink!Photo Credit: Merle ProsofskySource: www.prosofsky.com
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Knock on Wood
11/25Knock on Wood
11/25Photo Credit: Janis NicolaySource: janisnicolay.com
Warm wood meets subdued blue in this bright and modern kitchen. We love how the island's stone countertop extends out for extra prep space, while the large metal barstools tuck perfectly underneath.Kitchens25 Show-Stopping Kitchen Islands You'll Want to ReplicateKnock on Wood
PHOTO 11 of 25READ LESS -Warm wood meets subdued blue in this bright and modern kitchen. We love how the island's stone countertop extends out for extra prep space, while the large metal barstools tuck perfectly underneath.Photo Credit: Janis NicolaySource: janisnicolay.com
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Boarded Beauty
12/25Boarded Beauty
12/25Photo Credit: HGTV Canada
If your kitchen is lacking in the personality department, we have two words for you: barn board. The wood's natural grain will add a shot of texture and warmth, as seen on this standout kitchen island. Reach new design heights by opting for a matching ceiling beam.Kitchens25 Show-Stopping Kitchen Islands You'll Want to ReplicateBoarded Beauty
PHOTO 12 of 25READ LESS -If your kitchen is lacking in the personality department, we have two words for you: barn board. The wood's natural grain will add a shot of texture and warmth, as seen on this standout kitchen island. Reach new design heights by opting for a matching ceiling beam.Photo Credit: HGTV Canada
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High Impact
13/25High Impact
13/25Photo Credit: Darren Goldstein/DSG Photo
When you're graced with a large open-concept space, adding a long and narrow island is a must. The reason? It helps delineate the cooking zone without overcrowding. Hang a few attention-grabbing pendants above for extra impact.Kitchens25 Show-Stopping Kitchen Islands You'll Want to ReplicateHigh Impact
PHOTO 13 of 25READ LESS -When you're graced with a large open-concept space, adding a long and narrow island is a must. The reason? It helps delineate the cooking zone without overcrowding. Hang a few attention-grabbing pendants above for extra impact.Photo Credit: Darren Goldstein/DSG Photo
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Bartender's BFF
14/25Bartender's BFF
14/25Photo Credit: Drew HadleySource: www.drewhadley.com
Montreal-based interior designer Tania Scardellato of <a href="http://www.tocdesign.com/" target="_blank">TOC Design & Construction Inc.</a> transformed her kitchen into the chicest of entertaining havens. The extra-large island features everything from a wine fridge and glassware storage unit to a cooking zone and dining area, yet the use of neutral hued materials ensures it doesn't dominate the space.Kitchens25 Show-Stopping Kitchen Islands You'll Want to ReplicateBartender's BFF
PHOTO 14 of 25READ LESS -Montreal-based interior designer Tania Scardellato of <a href="http://www.tocdesign.com/" target="_blank">TOC Design & Construction Inc.</a> transformed her kitchen into the chicest of entertaining havens. The extra-large island features everything from a wine fridge and glassware storage unit to a cooking zone and dining area, yet the use of neutral hued materials ensures it doesn't dominate the space.Photo Credit: Drew HadleySource: www.drewhadley.com
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Slim Down
15/25Slim Down
15/25Photo Credit: Darren Goldstein/DSG Photo
Even though this living space is on the narrow side, you barely notice thanks to strategic furniture choices that help create a sense of spaciousness – namely the slender kitchen island, which adds tons of function without eating up too much real estate (<a href="http://www.hgtv.ca/shows/property-brothers/photos/this-modern-rustic-home-is-an-outdoor-lovers-dream-1897042/" target="_blank">tour the entire space here</a>).Kitchens25 Show-Stopping Kitchen Islands You'll Want to ReplicateSlim Down
PHOTO 15 of 25READ LESS -Even though this living space is on the narrow side, you barely notice thanks to strategic furniture choices that help create a sense of spaciousness – namely the slender kitchen island, which adds tons of function without eating up too much real estate (<a href="http://www.hgtv.ca/shows/property-brothers/photos/this-modern-rustic-home-is-an-outdoor-lovers-dream-1897042/" target="_blank">tour the entire space here</a>).Photo Credit: Darren Goldstein/DSG Photo
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Mighty Small
16/25Mighty Small
16/25Photo Credit: CB2Source: cb2.com
This chic find is a pint-sized powerhouse. It's perfect in a compact kitchen, where it can serve as a table for two or as additional counter space. Love the brass-meets-black bar stools? <a href="https://www.cb2.com/rake-brass-bar-stools/f13477" target="_blank">Score them here</a>.Kitchens25 Show-Stopping Kitchen Islands You'll Want to ReplicateMighty Small
PHOTO 16 of 25READ LESS -This chic find is a pint-sized powerhouse. It's perfect in a compact kitchen, where it can serve as a table for two or as additional counter space. Love the brass-meets-black bar stools? <a href="https://www.cb2.com/rake-brass-bar-stools/f13477" target="_blank">Score them here</a>.Photo Credit: CB2Source: cb2.com
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Pastel Pop
17/25Pastel Pop
17/25Photo Credit: Janis NicolaySource: janisnicolay.com
Now here's a kitchen island that's large and in charge. Its sizable frame painted powder blue makes it the showpiece of the space, while ample storage and seating maximizes its potential.Kitchens25 Show-Stopping Kitchen Islands You'll Want to ReplicatePastel Pop
PHOTO 17 of 25READ LESS -Now here's a kitchen island that's large and in charge. Its sizable frame painted powder blue makes it the showpiece of the space, while ample storage and seating maximizes its potential.Photo Credit: Janis NicolaySource: janisnicolay.com
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Drop Off
18/25Drop Off
18/25Photo Credit: HGTV Canada
Who says islands should stick to one height? Not us! Take this two-level counter's lead and have one side function as a bar/prep area, and the other serve as your kitchen table.Kitchens25 Show-Stopping Kitchen Islands You'll Want to ReplicateDrop Off
PHOTO 18 of 25READ LESS -Who says islands should stick to one height? Not us! Take this two-level counter's lead and have one side function as a bar/prep area, and the other serve as your kitchen table.Photo Credit: HGTV Canada
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Grey Matters
19/25Grey Matters
19/25Photo Credit: Janis NicolaySource: janisnicolay.com
The beauty of employing a neutral scheme is having the license to experiment with various shapes and textures. Case in point: these geometric bar stools, which give the sleek waterfall island a style boost. <a href="http://www.hgtv.ca/shows/love-it-or-list-it-vancouver/photos/a-massive-oceanfront-property-gets-a-modern-refresh-1901816/" target="_blank">Tour the home here</a>.Kitchens25 Show-Stopping Kitchen Islands You'll Want to ReplicateGrey Matters
PHOTO 19 of 25READ LESS -The beauty of employing a neutral scheme is having the license to experiment with various shapes and textures. Case in point: these geometric bar stools, which give the sleek waterfall island a style boost. <a href="http://www.hgtv.ca/shows/love-it-or-list-it-vancouver/photos/a-massive-oceanfront-property-gets-a-modern-refresh-1901816/" target="_blank">Tour the home here</a>.Photo Credit: Janis NicolaySource: janisnicolay.com
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Family Jewel
20/25Family Jewel
20/25Photo Credit: HGTV Canada
This light-filled kitchen lures us in with its expansive island, which hones in on function since the rest of the room lacks proper storage and counter space – an essential for any growing family. <a href="http://www.hgtv.ca/shows/masters-of-flip/photos/kortney-wilsons-18-tips-to-make-your-home-cottage-chic-1053016/" target="_blank">See here for the grand tour</a>.Kitchens25 Show-Stopping Kitchen Islands You'll Want to ReplicateFamily Jewel
PHOTO 20 of 25READ LESS -This light-filled kitchen lures us in with its expansive island, which hones in on function since the rest of the room lacks proper storage and counter space – an essential for any growing family. <a href="http://www.hgtv.ca/shows/masters-of-flip/photos/kortney-wilsons-18-tips-to-make-your-home-cottage-chic-1053016/" target="_blank">See here for the grand tour</a>.Photo Credit: HGTV Canada
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Hidden Talent
21/25Hidden Talent
21/25Photo Credit: HGTV Canada
A custom island can do a whole lot more than offer extra storage. Here, it conceals oft-used appliances like the dishwasher and microwave (ie: cooking space eye-sores). <a href="https://www.hometowin.ca/behind-the-design/gallery/tiffany-pratt-finishes-off-a-fab-foyer/" target="_blank">Tour the entire kitchen here</a>.Kitchens25 Show-Stopping Kitchen Islands You'll Want to ReplicateHidden Talent
PHOTO 21 of 25READ LESS -A custom island can do a whole lot more than offer extra storage. Here, it conceals oft-used appliances like the dishwasher and microwave (ie: cooking space eye-sores). <a href="https://www.hometowin.ca/behind-the-design/gallery/tiffany-pratt-finishes-off-a-fab-foyer/" target="_blank">Tour the entire kitchen here</a>.Photo Credit: HGTV Canada
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Seeing Double
22/25Seeing Double
22/25Photo Credit: HGTV Canada
When space is on your side (as is the case in Scott McGillivray's family home) why stop at one kitchen island? Double up, having one unit serve as the prep and washing zone and the other as the entertaining area. Tour more of the beautifully appointed home <a href="http://www.hgtv.ca/shows/moving-the-mcgillivrays/photos/scott-mcgillivray-adds-luxury-to-polish-off-his-dream-home-1053065/" target="_blank">here</a>.Kitchens25 Show-Stopping Kitchen Islands You'll Want to ReplicateSeeing Double
PHOTO 22 of 25READ LESS -When space is on your side (as is the case in Scott McGillivray's family home) why stop at one kitchen island? Double up, having one unit serve as the prep and washing zone and the other as the entertaining area. Tour more of the beautifully appointed home <a href="http://www.hgtv.ca/shows/moving-the-mcgillivrays/photos/scott-mcgillivray-adds-luxury-to-polish-off-his-dream-home-1053065/" target="_blank">here</a>.Photo Credit: HGTV Canada
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Compact Catch-All
23/25Compact Catch-All
23/25Photo Credit: Darren Goldstein/DSG Photo
Think of this compact island as the jack of all trades. Not only does it have a built-in wine fridge, but it boasts multiple storage opportunities for other kitchen essentials that were previously without a home.Kitchens25 Show-Stopping Kitchen Islands You'll Want to ReplicateCompact Catch-All
PHOTO 23 of 25READ LESS -Think of this compact island as the jack of all trades. Not only does it have a built-in wine fridge, but it boasts multiple storage opportunities for other kitchen essentials that were previously without a home.Photo Credit: Darren Goldstein/DSG Photo
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Farmhouse Flair
24/25Farmhouse Flair
24/25Photo Credit: HGTV Canada
Here's an elegant kitchen that goes from conventional to character-filled thanks to the rustic island lined with industrial-style stools. The barn board adds a welcome hit of texture and warmth, amounting to a farmhouse chic look.Kitchens25 Show-Stopping Kitchen Islands You'll Want to ReplicateFarmhouse Flair
PHOTO 24 of 25READ LESS -Here's an elegant kitchen that goes from conventional to character-filled thanks to the rustic island lined with industrial-style stools. The barn board adds a welcome hit of texture and warmth, amounting to a farmhouse chic look.Photo Credit: HGTV Canada
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Long Shot
25/25Long Shot
25/25Photo Credit: HGTV Canada
Feast your eyes on this statement island, which is easily twice as long as the average model. Seating at least six (though we imagine eight people would still fit comfortably), it banishes the idea of one-size-fits-all.Kitchens25 Show-Stopping Kitchen Islands You'll Want to ReplicateLong Shot
PHOTO 25 of 25READ LESS -Feast your eyes on this statement island, which is easily twice as long as the average model. Seating at least six (though we imagine eight people would still fit comfortably), it banishes the idea of one-size-fits-all.Photo Credit: HGTV Canada
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