Island Kitchen Cabinets That Won’t Leave You Stranded

Have you ever dreamed of getting away from it all and retiring to your own private island? Maybe that’s not in the budget (yet), but you can always do the next best thing. With the creative use of kitchen cabinets and other design elements, you can relax in your favorite chair and conjure up a unique kitchen island that no one will take a backseat to.

charming cabin
If your idea of ​​the perfect vacation doesn’t involve a trip to the cabin, let the cabin come to you. With quaintly designed kitchen cabinets and beaded paneling below a salvaged butcher counter, this island setting lets you experience the charm of farmhouse living without mosquitoes or noisy neighbors. Who could say no to that?

triple your pleasure
Bigger is better. The more the better. They may be clichés, but if you’re someone who subscribes to the “house like castle” approach, then they probably ring true. For a kitchen strategy and matching kitchen cabinets, try a large island with a three-section countertop sporting a variety of premium materials, like teak and slate. The extra space opens up a world of possibilities, including a larger work area, two sinks, and generous portions of drawers, cupboards, and kitchen cabinets in the base.

You can even use an overhanging countertop to create a seating area for meals or casual conversation. When you see the finished product, you’ll agree that two may be company, but three will set you above the crowd.

Opposites draw attention
Mixed colors are great when you want a harmonious look, but sometimes it’s good to mix them up a bit. To create attractive looks with your kitchen island and cabinets, experiment with contrasting textures and colors. A warm walnut countertop will really pop when placed against the white cabinets below. Top it off with brown leather stools in that same warm hue for a compelling effect that’s the opposite of boring and predictable.

slim is in fashion
Sometimes the best approach to your kitchen island and cabinets is like the optimal visiting time for the in-laws: Less is more. If your kitchen is smaller, a slimline island and matching kitchen cabinets may be the perfect option. You can keep the walking lanes open and have ample room for food prep, bar service, and storage with cabinets. By skipping the countertop overhang that often accompanies an island, you can avoid the congestion of family or guests who congregate for dinner in the kitchen.

move it and use it
When is an island not an island? When in reality it is a mobile work table complete with drawers and kitchen cabinets. With a sturdy surface, it still serves its purpose as a food prep area, but the portable aspect allows it to do double or triple duty as a buffet table or extra counter space in a small kitchen. By including drawers and cabinets underneath, you can maximize usable space while minimizing the claustrophobic effect that often goes along with the “cozy kitchen” theme.

angst for success
If you yearn for simpler times, a basic table-like island with an open base may be the answer. The distressed table top gives it a retro feel, and you can make up for the lack of storage underneath by adding drawers and kitchen cabinets to other areas of the kitchen.

Regardless of your current configuration, there is a design solution to meet your wants and needs. While it’s true that “no man (or woman) is an island,” with a little planning you can HAVE the island that will never leave you stranded.