Are you on the lookout for an ex-display kitchen with its very own island? At Rehome, we’ve got plenty of sensibly priced kitchen deals, all priced with budget-savvy renovators in mind. But what if you’re struggling for inspiration? Have a look at our 7 best kitchen island ideas to get the ball rolling.
1. Handleless
If you’ve been dreaming of sleek surfaces, a handleless kitchen island could be the answer. Offering homeowners a clean look, handleless kitchen islands epitomise everything we love about contemporary designs.
Say goodbye to snagged clothing: without protruding handles, busy chefs can run around the kitchen with plenty of space. The continuous lines give the island a streamlined appearance, which can be advantageous for small kitchens.
Handleless kitchen islands also come out on top when it’s time to clean. With no handles for dirt and grime to accumulate, homeowners can leave this task off their to-do list.
Overall, they’re a smart choice for low-maintenance minimalists with a preference for all things practical!
2. Shaker cabinetry
The origins of Shaker design focus on utility and simplicity. The ethos is reflected in the straightforward, elegant construction of Shaker cabinets, which typically feature minimal ornamentation.
So, for homeowners looking for an effortlessly adaptable kitchen island, Shaker cabinetry is a classic choice. The Shaker style can accommodate any taste, whether you prefer a more rustic look with natural wood finishes or a sleek, contemporary feel with painted cabinets.
Popular colour choices include classic whites and creams, as well as more daring hues like deep blues and greys. For the ultimate display of Shaker style, the John Lewis Newcastle, Leckford Ex Display Shaker Kitchen is a perfect example.
3. In-frame designs
At Rehome, we’re loving the traditional feel of in-frame kitchen cabinetry, especially when it comes to islands. The neat, flush appearance of in-frame islands (which involves the cabinet doors and drawer fronts being inset within a sturdy frame) offers a sophisticated look that draws attention to craftsmanship.
For a classic style, you might choose a Shaker-style in-frame island with natural wood finishes or muted colour palettes like dove grey or charcoal. Or, put a modern twist on your kitchen by mixing materials, like combining painted finishes with natural wood accents.
4. Kitchen island with a chef/baker table
Homeowners with a penchant for cooking or baking, this one’s for you! Owning a kitchen island with your very own built-in baker's table is the ultimate find for any culinary enthusiast.
Roll dough, chop vegetables and prepare meals on your kitchen island’s extended, slightly raised worktop. Products like this Bespoke Ex Display Chef's Table, Painted In Frame, provide homeowners with a large set-up that’s ideal for a range of cooking tasks.
Those in dire need of extra storage space can also keep their baking tools, ingredients, and appliances within arm's reach inside your kitchen island’s spacious drawers.
5. Cottage chic
Combine the rustic charm of countryside homes with the functionality of modern carpentry, and you get cottage chic! A style that emphasises natural materials, soft colours, and vintage elements, cottage kitchen islands will give your home a warm atmosphere. The hallmark of a cottage chic kitchen island is its use of natural wood, with products often featuring butcher block worktops and shaker-style cabinetry.
6. Twin island
The only thing better than one kitchen island is two! Having two slightly smaller kitchen islands can be great for homeowners looking to divide their worktops for a clear division of tasks.
One island can be dedicated to meal preparation, equipped with a sink, cutting boards, and storage for utensils and ingredients. The other island can serve as a social or dining space, complete with bar stools and perhaps even a wine cooler!
The flexibility of twin islands also makes them ideal for zoning in open-plan kitchens. They provide a natural barrier that helps define different areas within a large space, such as separating the cooking zone from the dining or living areas.
7. Marble
Marble kitchen islands offer a level of luxury that few materials can match. No two islands are alike, with each slab boasting unique veining patterns and hues. Best of all, marble is one of the most durable materials there are: perfect for withstanding the wear and tear of daily life.
