Kitchen Islands
Kitchen islands are transforming modern kitchens in Los Angeles. These versatile pieces of furniture offer additional workspace, storage, and seating options. Wink Kitchen Remodeling Los Angeles specializes in creating custom kitchen islands that maximize functionality and style. This article explores how kitchen islands can enhance your kitchen’s layout, the various countertop options available, including wood and butcher block, and how to select the perfect island for your space.

Key Takeaways
- Kitchen islands offer versatile solutions for storage, workspace, and seating in modern kitchens
- Homeowners can choose from various styles like galley, full-sized, bar combos, and rolling islands
- Islands can be customized with features like wine racks, sinks, and butcher block tops
- Circular and double islands provide unique design options for different kitchen layouts
- Extra seating on kitchen islands creates social hubs and maximizes functionality in the space

Kitchen Islands
Kitchen islands offer versatile solutions for modern kitchens, ranging from galley and full-sized options to bar combos and rolling carts. These cabinetry additions provide extra storage, workspace, and seating. Homeowners can compare various styles, including circular, small, and double islands, to find the perfect fit for their space. From functional storage cabinets to stylish farmhouse designs, kitchen islands enhance both form and function.

Galley Kitchen Island
Galley kitchen islands offer a practical solution for narrow spaces, maximizing storage and functionality. These slim, elongated islands provide additional counter space for food preparation and can include features like a butcher block top or stainless steel surface. Homeowners can incorporate a small pantry or extra cabinets into the design, enhancing the room’s overall storage capacity.
The versatility of galley kitchen islands allows for customization to suit specific needs. They can be designed with open shelving on one side for easy access to frequently used items, while closed cabinets on the other side offer concealed storage space. This type of island can also serve as a room divider, creating a natural flow between the kitchen and adjacent living areas.

Full Kitchen Island
Full kitchen islands serve as functional centerpieces, offering ample storage and workspace. These islands typically feature multiple drawers for utensils and cookware, as well as spacious cabinets for larger items. Homeowners can incorporate a wine rack or built-in wine cooler, adding a touch of sophistication to their kitchen design.
The countertop of a full kitchen island often showcases durable materials like granite, providing an ideal surface for food preparation and serving. Some designs include open shelving for displaying decorative items or frequently used kitchen tools. A full kitchen island can also function as a server during gatherings, enhancing the room’s overall functionality and appeal.

The Kitchen Island Bar Combo
Kitchen island bar combos offer customers a versatile solution for expanding their kitchen’s functionality. These multifunctional islands combine ample workspace with convenient seating, featuring a raised bar area that can accommodate stools. Homeowners can customize their island bar combo with various features, such as a built-in cutting board or wine rack, to suit their specific needs.
The VADHOLMA kitchen island from IKEA serves as an excellent example of a practical island bar combo. Customers can explore images of different island designs to find inspiration for their own kitchen remodel. These islands not only provide additional storage and workspace but also create a social hub within the kitchen, perfect for casual dining or entertaining guests.

Rolling Kitchen Island
Rolling kitchen islands offer unparalleled flexibility in kitchen design. These portable units, often crafted from solid wood, provide additional workspace and storage that can be moved as needed. Homeowners can easily reposition these islands to accommodate different kitchen layouts or create extra space for entertaining.
The versatility of rolling kitchen islands extends beyond their mobility. Many models feature adjustable shelves, drawers, and hooks for customizable storage solutions. Some designs incorporate features like towel bars, spice racks, or butcher block tops, enhancing their functionality. Here are some key benefits of rolling kitchen islands:
- Portability for flexible kitchen layouts
- Additional workspace and storage
- Customizable features to suit specific needs
- Solid wood construction for durability
- Space-saving solution for smaller kitchens

Circular Kitchen Island
Circular kitchen islands offer a unique aesthetic appeal and functional design for modern kitchens. These rounded islands create a smooth flow in the kitchen space, eliminating sharp corners and providing a visually striking focal point. Homeowners can choose from various materials, such as wood, granite, or stainless steel, to complement their existing kitchen decor.
The circular shape of these islands allows for efficient use of space, making them ideal for both small and large kitchens. They provide ample workspace for food preparation and can accommodate multiple people working simultaneously. Some circular kitchen island designs incorporate features like built-in sinks, cooktops, or seating areas, enhancing their versatility and functionality.

Small Kitchen Island
Small kitchen islands offer practical solutions for compact spaces, providing additional storage and workspace without overwhelming the room. These compact units often feature a combination of drawers, shelves, and cabinets to maximize storage capacity. Homeowners can choose from various designs, including portable options with wheels for flexibility.
Many small kitchen islands incorporate features like extendable countertops or drop-leaf surfaces to adapt to different needs. These versatile pieces can serve multiple functions, such as:
- Food preparation area
- Casual dining spot
- Bar-height seating
- Extra storage for kitchen essentials
- Mobile workstation

Storage Cabinet Island
Storage cabinet islands are versatile kitchen additions that combine ample storage space with functional work surfaces. These islands feature multiple cabinets, drawers, and shelves, providing homeowners with organized storage solutions for cookware, small appliances, and pantry items. The countertop offers extra workspace for food preparation or casual dining.
Customizable storage cabinet islands allow homeowners to tailor the design to their specific needs. Options include pull-out spice racks, built-in trash compartments, and specialized drawers for cutlery or baking supplies. Some models incorporate open shelving on one side for displaying decorative items or frequently used kitchen tools, enhancing both style and functionality.

Breakfast Bar Kitchen Islands
Breakfast bar kitchen islands combine functionality with casual dining options, offering a versatile solution for modern kitchens. These islands feature an elevated countertop or extended surface that accommodates bar stools, creating a comfortable space for quick meals or social gatherings. Homeowners can customize the height and width of the breakfast bar to suit their specific needs and kitchen layout.
The design of breakfast bar kitchen islands often incorporates additional storage options beneath the seating area, maximizing space efficiency. These islands can serve multiple purposes, enhancing the overall functionality of the kitchen:
- Casual dining area for quick meals
- Extra workspace for food preparation
- Social hub for entertaining guests
- Storage solution for kitchen essentials
- Visual separation between kitchen and living areas

Double Islands
Double islands offer a luxurious and functional solution for spacious kitchens, providing ample workspace and storage. This design features two separate island units, often positioned parallel or perpendicular to each other, creating distinct zones for food preparation, cooking, and socializing.
Homeowners can customize double islands to suit their specific needs, incorporating features such as a prep sink, cooktop, or seating area on one island, while dedicating the other to storage or additional workspace. This arrangement enhances workflow efficiency and allows multiple people to work comfortably in the kitchen simultaneously.

Butcher Block Kitchen Island
Butcher block kitchen islands combine functionality with rustic charm, offering a durable workspace for food preparation. These islands feature a solid wood top, typically made from hardwoods like maple, oak, or walnut, providing a warm and inviting aesthetic to the kitchen. The natural surface is ideal for chopping and cutting, making it a practical choice for avid home cooks.
Homeowners can customize butcher block kitchen islands with various features, such as built-in knife storage or a lower shelf for additional storage space. The wooden surface requires regular maintenance, including oiling and sanding, to preserve its appearance and functionality. Despite the upkeep, many homeowners appreciate the character and patina that develops over time, adding to the island’s unique appeal.

Farmhouse Kitchen Island
Farmhouse kitchen islands blend rustic charm with modern functionality, offering a centerpiece that enhances both style and practicality in the kitchen. These islands typically feature natural wood finishes, distressed surfaces, and ample storage space, reflecting the timeless appeal of traditional farmhouse design.
Homeowners can customize farmhouse kitchen islands with various features to suit their needs. Popular options include:
- Open shelving for displaying cookbooks or decorative items
- Built-in wine racks or beverage coolers
- Butcher block countertops for food preparation
- Apron-front sinks for added convenience
- Barn-style sliding doors for concealed storage

Furniture Style
Furniture-style kitchen islands bring a sophisticated, custom-built look to modern kitchens. These islands feature design elements reminiscent of freestanding furniture pieces, such as decorative legs, moldings, and hardware. Homeowners can choose from various finishes and styles to complement their existing kitchen decor, creating a cohesive and elegant look.
The versatility of furniture-style kitchen islands extends beyond aesthetics. These islands often incorporate practical features like pull-out drawers, hidden compartments, and adjustable shelving. Some designs include a mix of open and closed storage options, allowing homeowners to display decorative items while concealing kitchen essentials.

Table Island
Table islands offer a versatile solution for kitchens, combining the functionality of a traditional island with the convenience of a dining table. These units typically feature an extended countertop or a separate table surface attached to the island, providing a seamless transition from food preparation to casual dining.
Homeowners can customize table islands to suit their specific needs, incorporating features such as built-in storage, adjustable height mechanisms, or extendable surfaces. This design maximizes space efficiency in smaller kitchens while creating a multi-functional area for cooking, dining, and socializing, making it an ideal choice for open-concept living spaces.

Bubble Islands
Bubble islands are innovative kitchen island designs that feature rounded, organic shapes reminiscent of bubbles. These unique structures offer a modern and playful aesthetic, breaking away from traditional rectangular island forms. Homeowners can incorporate bubble islands to create a striking focal point in their kitchen, enhancing visual interest and flow.
The curved design of bubble islands promotes smooth movement around the kitchen space, eliminating sharp corners and creating a more ergonomic environment. These islands can be customized with various materials, such as quartz or stainless steel, and often include built-in storage solutions or seating areas. Bubble islands provide a fresh approach to kitchen design, blending functionality with contemporary style.

Extra Seating
Kitchen islands with extra seating provide a versatile solution for homeowners seeking to maximize their kitchen’s functionality. These islands incorporate bar-height countertops or extended surfaces that accommodate stools, creating a casual dining area or social hub within the kitchen space. Homeowners can choose from various seating options, including swivel stools, backless chairs, or cushioned benches, to suit their style and comfort preferences.
The addition of extra seating to kitchen islands offers numerous benefits for modern households. These features enhance the kitchen’s role as a central gathering space, allowing for casual meals, homework sessions, or socializing while cooking. Kitchen islands with seating also provide an efficient use of space, eliminating the need for a separate dining area in smaller homes or open-concept layouts. Some popular configurations for extra seating on kitchen islands include:
- L-shaped islands with extended countertops
- Double-tiered islands with raised bar areas
- Peninsula-style islands with attached breakfast bars
- Curved or circular islands with integrated seating
- Mobile islands with fold-out seating options

Corbel Island
Corbel islands add architectural interest to kitchen designs, featuring decorative brackets that support overhanging countertops. These ornamental elements, typically made of wood or stone, provide both visual appeal and structural support, creating a sophisticated and timeless look in modern kitchens.
Homeowners can customize corbel islands with various styles, from intricate Victorian designs to sleek contemporary profiles. The space beneath the corbels often incorporates additional storage options, such as open shelving or cabinets, maximizing functionality while maintaining an elegant appearance.
Frequently Asked Questions
A kitchen island enhances functionality, storage, and aesthetics in a remodeled kitchen. It provides extra counter space for food preparation, casual dining, and social gatherings. Islands can also incorporate appliances, sinks, and storage solutions, making them versatile additions to any kitchen layout.
A functional kitchen island typically requires a minimum of 36-48 inches of clearance on all sides for comfortable movement. The island itself should be at least 24 inches deep and 36-48 inches long to provide adequate workspace and storage.
Yes, a kitchen island can incorporate both seating and storage options. Skilled kitchen remodelers can design islands with built-in cabinets, drawers, or shelves for storage, while also including an overhang or extended countertop to accommodate bar stools or chairs for seating.
Popular kitchen island countertop materials include granite, quartz, marble, butcher block, and stainless steel. Each offers unique benefits, from durability and heat resistance to aesthetic appeal and maintenance ease, catering to different styles and functional needs in kitchen remodeling projects.
A kitchen island can significantly impact layout and workflow by providing additional counter space, storage, and a focal point for food preparation and socializing. It enhances functionality, creates efficient work triangles, and allows for better traffic flow in the kitchen.