Kitchen Islands

Benefits of a Kitchen Island

Kitchen islands take center stage in the room's design by adding style and functionality to the most popular spot in the house. Perfect for small and spacious areas alike, kitchen trolleys are great furniture pieces for adding storage and prep space. If the kitchen is short on counter space, use the island to make your favorite meals. Set ingredients on the island's surface, and prepare your recipes with mixing bowls, cutting boards, and stainless steel and aluminum bakeware. When dinner is done, store the cookware, dinnerware and other frequently used appliances like blenders on the island's shelves. Choose open shelves for an airy look, or opt for an island with drawers, cabinets and doors to keep any clutter out of sight. For extra storage, consider adding a wood cabinet to your space.

Add some casters to the kitchen island to take it where you need it. For instance, roll an island with a drop-leaf design into the living room to set up a buffet of hor d'oeuvres at your next gathering. At a wine tasting, set up a kitchen island made of solid wood. Then, use it to display various bottles on multiple shelves, and make room on the surface to hold stemware and trays of cheese. If you're hosting a formal dinner party, fashion it as a bar cart in the dining room, and set up decanters, beverage tubs and drinkware to conveniently refresh your guests' cocktails. Need extra seating at your family holiday party? Circle a few stools or counter chairs around the island to create a makeshift kids' table in the kitchen, living room or dining room.

A kitchen island is also a way to bring style to your home. Find colors, finishes and materials that complement the kitchen. In a rustic room, a reclaimed wood kitchen cart enhances the aesthetic. White ties into a farmhouse look, while black and stainless steel work well for an urban atmosphere. Add sophistication with a kitchen island that has a marble top, or bring a pop of color to the kitchen with a green cart. For a personal touch in the kitchen, display a centerpiece on top of it. Don't forget a kitchen standing mat underneath for added comfort. Botanicals in ceramic vases are a timeless touch, and seasonal decor—such as leafy garlands or hurricanes of pine cones—help you get in the holiday spirit.