Kitchen islands are great for a multitude of purposes: they provide practical utility, enhanced organizational capabilities, and they can be a great complement to nearly any design aesthetic. But while they come with these benefits, they can also easily overwhelm a space if they’re not properly sized.
That’s why a small kitchen island can be an even bigger asset than a large one. With their unique ability to be tucked, moved, and stored, many homeowners are choosing small islands over their larger counterparts. For your inspiration, here are some design concepts and ideas to help you envision how well a small kitchen island can live in your home.
Floating Island
A floating kitchen island is a great way to add function without overcrowding your visual space. Consider installing a ledge that runs the width of the size you’re after on one of your kitchen walls. This will allow for extra counter space where you need it and avoids the risk of appearing too big and bulky as a standalone item.
Storable Island
If you’re remodeling your kitchen, a great idea is to reserve a section of the cabinets for a storable island. It will blend with the rest of your cabinetry until you need more space to cook or dine, at which time you can pull it out to be used as a work or eating space.
Drop-Leaf Island
With a drop-leaf island you get two countertops for the price of one. When space isn’t an issue, keep the leaves down to preserve your aesthetic; when you’re in need of more room to work, simply pop them out, and you’ll have twice as much countertop space to work with.
Rolling Island
One of the great benefits a small kitchen island offers comes in the form of mobility. Adding wheels to your island will enhance the flow of your kitchen’s workspace and ensure things are where you need them when you need them.
Repurposed Island
Just because a piece of furniture isn’t designed to be an island, doesn’t mean it can’t make a great one. A small dining or end table at an appropriate height can work beautifully as an island. Tuck a pair of stools underneath and you’ll have extra seating in a cinch.
Square Island
While a large island in the shape of a square often results in wasted space and cleaning difficulty, a small kitchen island sports this shape wonderfully. Attractive and ergonomic, this is a great way to add big style in a small package.
Overhang Island
To maximize your small island’s space, you can designate one side of the island to storage and the other to seating by choosing an island with an overhang. This way both your seating and items you want to store will be tucked away out of sight until you’re ready to use them.
Slender Island
Just as square shapes are perfect for small islands but not ideal for larger ones, so, too, are slender shapes. Small, slender islands are perfect for when you want a little extra counter space, but you don’t want to interrupt the flow of foot traffic.
Butcher Block Island
Not only do butcher blocks add authenticity and charm, but they’re also extremely versatile, practical, and easy to clean. Available in any size you can dream up, opting for a butcher block island will give warmth to your aesthetic while providing stellar utility.
