Turn Your Kitchen Island into a Focal Point

Whether you're designing a rustic-style kitchen or one with a more contemporary vibe, an island enhances the beauty of your space and can be the focal point of your kitchen. The kitchen island is typically a gathering spot for family and friends, and it also serves as a prepping or display area for food and drinks.

To transform your kitchen island from a background fixture to a stunning focal point, use tile or natural stone to jazz it up. Read on to get creative ideas on designing a kitchen island that stands out.

Switch up the Countertop

When adding an island to a kitchen, there’s no need to worry about matching the new feature to existing countertops or cabinets. In fact, by embracing the standalone nature of the island, you can create something fresh and different that still works with your overall design. For example, if your kitchen is white, add warmth to the space by designing an island with a wood-look or stone countertop.

If the island will be used for baking, a marble countertop is perfect for rolling out pastry dough. And if you want a material that emits a little shine or sparkle, consider glass or metallic tile countertops. The island is also a great area to feature accents and kitchen décor.

Adorn the Front of the Island

Rather than repeating the same cabinetry on the front and sides of an island, consider adding a unique touch. Tile comes in a wide range of impressive styles and colors that make them artistic materials. Trendy neutral shades can infuse class and sophistication into any kitchen design when used on the front of the island.

Another option is to incorporate the smooth, clean lines of white subway tile or the rustic, old-world feel of exposed wood-look tile, to give your island an authentic appearance.

Coordinate Island Tile with the Backsplash

When you really want to add an awesome design flow to your kitchen, use the same colors and patterns on the backsplash and the island. For example, carry glass mosaic tile throughout the kitchen to create a beautiful, iridescent look that reflects soft lighting beautifully. Coordinating a natural stone tile backsplash with the top, sides, or front of the island is also a great option.

If you decide to stick with the same tile series on both the backsplash and island, try different colors or patterns to set each of the design elements apart without straying too far from your original goal. For example, a marble tile backsplash in a chevron pattern and can be carried onto the island using a marble countertop.

If you're considering adding a kitchen island to your design, why not turn it into a dazzling focal point with an elegant countertop or a stunning tile base. An island is a great, versatile element that can take a kitchen design to the next level.