12 Inspiring Kitchen Island Ideas

Whether you're looking for more storage, counter space or extra seating, a kitchen center island is always a good solution, even in a small space. For inspiration, we've rounded up 12 of our favorite kitchen islands for you to check out.

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Add Bookshelves

Home cooks unite! If you have more cookbooks than you know what to do with, a kitchen center island with integrated bookshelves is an excellent way to display your collection. And you can even build a bookcase, or use this hack to create a unique storage solution.
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Repurpose Something Old

Where space is at a premium, a repurposed dresser makes an ideal kitchen island. And as there is virtually no construction involved, it is one of many ways to give your kitchen a quick facelift. Look for dressers with deep drawers and interesting detail to make this work in your space.
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Integrate Appliances into Your Kitchen Island
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Integrate Appliances into Your Kitchen Island

Integrating appliances such as a microwave, wine fridge, or installing a dishwasher into a kitchen island can be a real space saver. Especially if you otherwise lack counter space. And you can even install a sink to create a space that allows you to mingle when doing dishes. Combining functionality, compactness, and style, these are the best appliances for your small space.
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Extend Seating
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Extend Seating

Many homeowners think they can't have a kitchen center island with seating due to depth issues. But another way to solve the problem is to extend the width of the island to allow for ample seating with a narrow footprint. And if you think that's great, check out all of these small kitchen space-saving tips.
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Multiple Levels
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Multiple Levels

From containing meal-prep to hiding a mess, a multi-level kitchen island provides the benefit of a counter area complete with back splash. A taller island section can also offer bar-height seating for guests. And with ample storage space beneath the island, you can implement some of these genius ideas for clearing away kitchen clutter.
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Contrast Colors
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Contrast Colors

Adding a kitchen island with a bold color is a fantastic way to add some pizzazz to your kitchen without a significant commitment. It's also easy to change if you grow tired of the color.
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A Place for Pets

Instead of placing pet food bowls along a wall where they can be tripped over or spilled, why not integrate them into your kitchen island? This provides a cute space just for your four-legged family members and keeps the mess out of the way, because we know you want to keep your pets safe and healthy.
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Meals on Wheels

A kitchen island on wheels is a must-have for any small kitchen. Providing extra prep-space, a movable island can be easily rolled away when not needed. And when it comes to DIY upgrades, easy is best.
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Repurpose a Table

A sofa or console table can be put to use as a kitchen island! Just top it off with a new stone or butcher- block top, and you'll have a quick and easy kitchen storage solution.

Want something different? If you’re looking to transform the feel of your kitchen, you can always make a unique kitchen island or table using a hatch door.

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Build a Banquette

This brilliant new trend allows you to pair your existing dining table with a kitchen island. Not only does this make great use of space, but you can also use the back side of the island to install these kitchen cabinet rollouts for more smart storage.
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Hidden Storage

In every kitchen, there are ways to create hidden storage in unused spaces, like this island recycling center. And clever storage like this makes your kitchen function better, and increases the value of your home.
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Add Electricity
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Add Electricity

When gathering your kitchen design ideas, don't overlook the benefit of installing kitchen island electrical outlets in your kitchen center island. This can make a multitude of meal preparation tasks a breeze. And these kitchen island electrical outlets will quickly become one of your favorite upgrades.