Kitchen Island: POP or NOT?

Written by: Design Specialist Erin Walker 

There is no contesting that the kitchen is the heart of the home.  Regardless of time period or culture, food and the kitchen draw people to gather together.  Current kitchen trends call for a large center island which will allow guests to interact with the host while preparing a meal, rather than isolate the cook while the guests are in a more formal space.  There is no doubt that the large island is multi-functional:  and overhang allows for stools which guests, a large, deep sink allows the cook to face the guests while doing food prep and can double for a great hiding spot for dishes and wine glass to keep clutter at a minimum, and ample square footage on the countertop allows for great hors d’oeuvres or buffet set up.

But regardless of size, one of the biggest debates designers deal with when discussing the kitchen with clients is whether the island is supposed to pop or not.  Of course, there is no magic formula as the answer is dependent on style, scale and personal preference.  

A large center island visually anchors an open-concept floor plan.  Changing the cabinet color or countertop selection from the perimeter cabinets can add contrast, whereas, keeping everything the same ensures continuity and keeps the kitchen looking as big as possible by not chopping it up visually.  Many clients with large kitchens tend to opt for the pop on the island, whereas, many with smaller kitchens opt to keep everything the same in order to keep the space feeling large.

A beautiful kitchen sink and faucet can add interest without taking the chance of visually separating the space and is a pop that works with an island of any size.  Stainless steel sinks and faucets appeal to the masses and are a safe choice, but if you are looking for a show piece a composite sink that compliments the counter top color or a large farmhouse sink are good, durable options that will catch guests attention.  An extra tall faucet neck and trendy faucet finish like chrome or aged brass will add just a bit of interest without demanding too much attention. 

Hanging pendants over the island will add layers of texture and light to any space and help set the mood when entertaining.  Pendants can be used as another opportunity to pop the island.  Home owners with larger island can feel free to embrace the over-sized pendant trend to drawn attention to the space, while home owners with smaller kitchens will want to stick with more modest sized pendants utilizing frosted or clear glass shades to keep the space feeling open and airy.  

All of our floor plans at Logan Homes offer central islands that will help ensure your kitchen is a great gathering space!