Kitchen islands are a great way to ensure sufficient space for meal prep and additional storage space in any kitchen layout. They can serve as a breakfast bar, a source of visual interest, a makeshift eating area, and an easy-access storage location among other things.

These are some of the many reasons why they are such a popular feature to include in a kitchen remodel. In the list below, you can find the best kitchen island ideas to give you inspiration for your next kitchen island design.

A Neutral Color Scheme Featuring Granite Countertops and a Matching Kitchen Island

This simple kitchen layout allows the island to double as a console table and prep space without obstruction. The kitchen island features granite on all three sides that matches that of the countertop and pairs well with the neutral, off-white scheme found throughout the room.

Additionally, the counter stools provide an alternative dining area for quick, casual meals or holding conversations while cooking. The unique chandelier adds a slightly modern touch to the room as a whole.

photographed by Henrik Linden, sold at Alvhem

A Greige L-Shaped Design With a Standard-Sized Kitchen Island

This timeless kitchen island design uses an average-sized island to create a visual barrier between the kitchen area and dining table while maintaining an open-plan aesthetic.

The kitchen island here is essentially an extension of the kitchen cabinets, using the same shade of paint and countertop material for a well-blended appearance. The large counter space and its positioning allows for prepping food while remaining a part of the conversation happening at the table.

Styled by Yngfalk interior, photographed by Mia Borgelin for Historiska Hem

A Quaint Cottage-Style Design With an Elevated, Mobile Kitchen Island

This example uses a kitchen island stand in place of a typical island, allowing you to reposition the surface as needed for endless layout options. The kitchen island features the same pattern and material as the cabinets but with a slight variation in panel size to create a simple focal point.

Furthermore, the matching flooring and peg rail along the wall helps to tie the space together even more, completing the cottage-style aesthetic.

via DeVol Kitchens

A Farmhouse Kitchen Design Style With a Wood Island

This kitchen island with open shelving pairs perfectly with the tones of the exposed beams, countertops, flooring, and decor, tying the kitchen layout together in a natural way.

The farmhouse design of the room further enhances the appearance of the kitchen island, allowing it to easily become the centerpiece while displaying a variety of dishes and cooking tools. With a simple brass rod used for dish towels or large utensil storage, this kitchen island exemplifies functionality.

via Nordiska Kök

Dark Greige Cabinetry With a Large Kitchen Island and Matching Marble Countertops

Among the most elegant of the kitchen island ideas on this list, this example provides a large prep space in addition to a built-in sink, counter stools, and glass-front shelving.

The black and white marble countertop and matching backsplash both contrast and blend well with the greige cabinets, creating a cohesive look that carries throughout the kitchen layout. The disguised range hood, gold-toned hardware, and delicate pendant lights further elevate the design.

via DeVol Kitchens

An Airy Off-White Kitchen With Sandstone Countertops and a Matching Island

This all-white kitchen features touches of sandy tones and subtle appliances to create the illusion of more room with the help of ample storage. A mix of shelving and deep drawers is a must-have, providing extra space for things you want to keep out of sight from guests, such as trash cans and various clutter.

By using the same countertop material on both the island, the cabinets, and the backsplash, a subtle path is created that draws you deeper into the room.

via Nordiska Kök

A Dark, Blue-Toned Palette With a Large Island in a Bold Color

Nothing makes a statement quite like a long, blue kitchen island. In this predominantly blue-grey kitchen, this dark blue island sets itself apart in the best possible way. The wall of windows spanning the countertop space along back of the room allows an abundance of natural light to pour in, making it easy to style dark, dramatic tones without fear.

Overall, the size and placement of this kitchen island is perfect for both food prep and serving dishes during family gatherings.

via Kitchen and Beyond

A Wood Island That’s a Combination of a Storage Space and a Seating Area

This sturdy oak island provides more storage as well as a place to rest and enjoy a brief meal. This unique kitchen island design features detailed legs, a recessed area to hang hand towels, and large drawers with an open area to store the stools when not in use.

The color of the wood contrasts beautifully with the lightness of the flooring and walls, while the use of the same countertop material and hardware helps to tie it back into the rest of the kitchen.

via Nordiska Kök

An Off-White and Light Tan Color Palette With a Large Kitchen Island

This more traditional kitchen island offers plenty of space for food prep, featuring a built-in sink and cooktop. The size and positioning of this island lend itself well to completing a standard work triangle while the use of two different countertop materials in this room provides subtle contrast.

Overall, the light, sandy tones of this color palette help to reflect and magnify the limited natural light, making the kitchen feel larger than it is.

via Cupboard and Goods

A Warm, Modern Kitchen With a Split-Level Island Countertop

This split-level kitchen island creates a more clear eating space with a lower surface, perfect for homes with children. Meals can be quickly served and cleaned up without ever leaving the kitchen. The warm wood in this particular kitchen provides those who enter a sense of welcome and coziness.

By utilizing different flooring patterns, you can also create a visual indication of the borders of a room, especially useful in open-plan spaces.

via Nordiska Kök

A Wide Natural Wood Kitchen Island in a More Traditional Kitchen Design

Prepping food is a breeze in this spacious kitchen. The wide kitchen island provides an abundance of surface area as well as storage. Kitchen island designs such as this make the most sense in rooms that have a bit of floor space to spare, as it also makes up for a lack of cabinetry along the walls.

The blend of modern design elements and more traditional ceiling detailing all work together to create a kitchen design that is timeless by nature.

Styled by Bon Interior, photographed by Maria Sahlander, for sale via Bjurfors

A Reclaimed Wood Kitchen Island With Matching Cabinets and Black Marble Countertops

This reclaimed, natural wood kitchen island design combines modernity with rustic touches for a warm, inviting kitchen. The eye-catching wood textures in the cabinetry and flooring provide enough detailing to create interest while the black marble on the countertops helps to transition the eye into the lightly detailed walls.

Track lighting around the ceiling ensures that light is always exactly where it’s needed, which makes sense with the dark tones of the materials used in the room.

via Nordiska Kök

A Semi-open Kitchen Island With a Stovetop and Seating

In this light sage green kitchen, the island is placed between the dining area and the main kitchen module. The side of the kitchen island opposite the sink includes the stovetop, allowing for a good working triangle with the sink and fridge.

The other sides of the island include bar stools and open storage for keeping wine and decor pieces for the dining table.

Styled by Clindholm Design, photographed by Jocke Ono for Historiska Hem

A Custom Island Made Entirely of Carrara Marble

A Carrara marble countertop is a popular choice for any room, but especially when designing a kitchen island. This large kitchen boasts a huge amount of room for meal prepping with light wood cabinetry and grey stone floors.

The kitchen island hosts a built-in sink, the second in the room, perfect for those who enjoy a two or more-person cooking style. A large picture window allows sunlight to pour in throughout the day, creating a relaxing environment.

via Nordiska Kök

A Multicolored Kitchen Island for an Exciting Pop in a Small Kitchen

This kitchen island is bursting with personality. With small appliances and a limited work area, this kitchen is the standard size in many apartments where full-scale remodels are far less common.

This budget-friendly style is a great way to make your kitchen your own, with bright color blocks all around the island and other cabinetry. This one kitchen island showcases a fun and carefree style that’s sure to be a conversation starter.

via Sjöman Frisk

A Small, White Island for Extra Counter Space in a Small Kitchen

This kitchen island is an important element of this kitchen. The style of kitchen here is very simple and compact, with the island countertop including a cooking surface and a single stool.

The off-white and beige tones with dark accents create a timeless style that will last a lifetime. Overall, this kitchen island furthers the concept that an island can be a simple, blended addition to the kitchen, not just a statement piece

via Stadshem

A Dark-Toned L-Shaped Design With a Matching Kitchen Island

This deep, muted green kitchen features a stunning marble backsplash and countertop with a matching island and stainless steel appliances. The result is a contemporary, earthy style that exemplifies simple elegance.

Though this design doesn’t include counter stools, there is a slight overhang on the kitchen island that would allow for them to be added when needed. Additionally, the placement of the island once again creates a more clear visual separation between the kitchen area and the rest of the open-plan room.

Styled by Åsa Copparstad, photographed by Frederic Boukari for Historiska Hem

A Terrazzo Backsplash and Matching Countertop With Island

For the last of the kitchen island designs on the list, we have a unique terrazzo countertop and backsplash. This pattern paired with the checkerboard wood flooring and creamy tan cabinetry results in an understated yet exciting style.

By having the kitchen island be covered in all of the same material, both the material and the island itself are highlighted. Overall, this style strikes a perfect balance between contemporary and traditional kitchen island ideas.

via Nordiska Kök

U-shaped kitchens are a popular design due to their ability to easily facilitate clutter-free countertops while providing a natural movement path between everything you need. A U-shaped layout can also give you extra floor space without sacrificing storage space and making food prep a breeze.

From galley kitchens to open plan kitchens and everything in between, u-shaped kitchens can come in a wide range of designs, sizes, and color palettes, giving you a wealth of options to explore. Below, you can find the most inspiring U-shaped kitchen ideas and design tips to help you find inspiration for your next remodel and kitchen layout planning.

A Crisp White U-Shaped Kitchen

A simple, timeless kitchen design, this u-shaped layout showcases a perfect balance between counter space and storage space. The white subway tiles serve as both a backsplash and a full wall protection from greases and other damaging substances while also serving as a source of visual interest.

The black and stainless steel appliances add just a touch of contrast, while the brass-toned hardware provides a sense of sophistication.

Styled by Grey Deco, photographed by Fredrik J Karlsson for Alvhem

A Dark, Dramatic U-Shaped Kitchen

This dramatic black kitchen uses black cabinets and walls in combination with dark wood flooring and white countertops to create an intense, showstopping look. The integrated range hood with gentle lighting helps to add depth to the space, while the white ceiling works to reflect light back down into the room and prevent it from being too dark.

Since this kitchen space is fairly monochromatic, the addition of a geometric patterned rug introduces a fun visual element without straying far from the overall design.

Photographed by Erika Weiland/Apelöga, styled by Johanna Wikstrand Moresco for Kulladal

A Classic Olive Green U-Shaped Kitchen

Anyone searching for a comforting farmhouse aesthetic is sure to love this U-shaped kitchen layout. The olive green tone and timeless black and white flooring paired with the mahogany brown island unit result in a slightly rustic, old-world feel.

A large farmhouse sink perfectly complements this effect, providing more than enough space to handle a variety of pots, pans, and dishes. The window seating offers a welcoming air for both family and friends alike.

via Cupboard and Goods

A Narrow U-Shaped Kitchen in a Dark Color Palette

This compact U-shaped design uses only two walls for the main kitchen area with the third side lightly separated by an entryway. This third wall is comprised of an array of storage options and a hidden refrigerator to create an uninterrupted flow from the main counter space.

The dark palette used for the lower cabinets pairs well with the neutral wood tones of the floor and built-in wine rack. Meanwhile, the lighter tones found in the upper half of the space provide the needed brightness in the space.

via Himlekök

Maximize the Utility of a Space with a U-Shaped Design

Sloped ceilings and limited space can make designing a functional kitchen a challenge. However, many U-shaped kitchen ideas can help you overcome the hurdle presented by the layout of the house or apartment.

This kitchen leans into the unique layout by working with it instead of against it. Placing the sink in front of the window ensures adequate space for handling dishes while placing taller items, like the refrigerator and wall units at the other end, echoing the angle of the roof.

Styled by JosefssonLjung, photographed by Alen Cordic for Nya Kvadrat

Open Shelving in a U-Shaped Kitchen Layout

This u-shaped kitchen works to solve a common issue in smaller homes: ensuring there is enough room for food preparation and storage. The floor-to-ceiling cabinets on the left provide the needed space for a variety of items.

Plus, the open storage shelving on the back wall serves multiple purposes, such as a place for decorative items, a place to store commonly used items, and an illusion of extra space in a cramped area. Small appliances also help to increase the usable areas in this small space.

via Historiska Hem

A Bold Blue and White U-Shaped Kitchen

This u-shaped kitchen has a distinctly vintage vibe that won’t soon go out of style. The intricate tile work covering the range hood adds a bit of visual texture. Glass front cabinets provide a more modern touch while the vertical shiplap around the window balances everything out.

By extending the butcher block countertop past the cabinets, a bar seating area is created with unique bar stools that play into the vintage appeal of the room.

via Cupboard and Goods

Unique Storage Space to Create a U-Shape

Kitchen storage space is abundant in this design. This u-shaped kitchen blends a range of different shelving, cabinet, and drawer options to help reduce visual clutter without needing a larger space.

The black appliances, light fixtures, and backsplash work to maintain the muted tones in the room. For a unique talking point, the cabinet space along the far wall showcases a narrow strip of small shelves directly in the middle that is the perfect place to keep knickknacks, cutting boards, and baking sheets.

via Nordiska Kök

A Modern Grey U-Shaped Kitchen

This example melds together ideals from multiple kitchen layouts to create a modern, functional design. The main area follows an L-shaped kitchen design while a small, breakfast bar area sits just off to the right.

There is plenty of moving around space, a small section of open shelves, and a dining area within easy walking distance from the main food prep area. The parallel stainless steel features of the stove, gray backsplash area and refrigerator provide structure and balance that creates a relaxing environment.

Styled by Studio Rydman, photographed by Frederic Boukari for Historiska Hem

A Bold Black U-Shaped Kitchen with Abundant Natural Light

This more open-plan space takes advantage of the bright light streaming through the windows to use minimal light fixtures with dark paint.

The white tile accent wall also serves to reflect any light, acting as both a focal point and a source of brightness. The light wood flooring is another source of balance while the recessed breakfast bar provides a breakpoint within the abundant wall units.

via Ballingslōv

A U-Shaped Kitchen Made With Unfinished Wood

This small u-shaped kitchen features a wealth of natural materials for a style that is equal parts industrial and rustic. The pendant lights over the cooking and sink area help ensure that there’s the appropriate amount of light where you need it most.

A blend of materials and open shelving further enforce the overall kitchen design. This example also incorporates a short wall on the left with a glass partition to create a faux open-plan space, something not commonly seen in U-shaped kitchens.

via Historiska Hem

A Black, White, and Tan U-Shaped Kitchen

Other than most designs on the list of U-shaped kitchen ideas, this kitchen uses a peninsula unit as one of the three walls in the U-shape. Pendant lighting over this feature allows it to function as a kitchen island or dining area while separating the kitchen and living areas.

The black, white, and tan color palette creates an almost neutral space that blends well within any home where other kitchen designs may stand out more. The addition of soapstone countertops could add a subtle element of luxury as well.

via Alvhem

Blended Materials for a Variety of Textures in a U-Shape

This kitchen features a one-of-a-kind design. Natural, unfinished wood cabinets span the vertical space of just one wall while two-tone paint covers the rest. Meanwhile, bold black cabinets sport a brown granite countertop, and the U-shaped layout is momentarily interrupted by a small section of one wall.

This allows a section of cabinets to act as a sort of kitchen island typically reserved for large spaces. The opposite banks are somewhat close-set, however, this leads the eye directly to the cabinets, further cementing their place as the focal point of this u-shaped design.

via Entrance Makleri

Calming Grey and Bright White in a U-Shaped Layout

In a similar fashion to other U-shaped kitchens on this list, this kitchen features white tile stretching from the countertops to the ceiling. This creates a clean, airy feeling in the room that is accented beautifully by the touches of brown around the room.

Smooth, light gray cabinets with soft leather handles instead of hard metal add to the overall sense of calm. For those who want a more prominent break point between the wall and countertops, a light gray backsplash might do the trick.

Via Planete Deco

Eclectic Design Ideals for a Unique U-Shaped Kitchen

Like previous U-shaped kitchens on this list, this kitchen’s main area is an L-shaped design with an extra auxiliary countertop area off to the side.

This choice paired with the small fireplace and unique wall art come together to create one of the more fun, eclectic kitchen designs we’ve seen. The round dining table on the right is the perfect distance from the work triangle, making meals a breeze.

via Historiska Hem

Traditional Design in a Small U-Shaped Kitchen

Finally, we have a kitchen that is more traditional in terms of coloring and styling. Medium wood floors, matching countertops, and beige cabinets create a simple, easy-to-achieve style. The beautifully set dining table is also set at just the right distance and angle from the main kitchen area.

Styled by Grey Deco, photograph by Anders Bergstedt for Alvhem

L-shaped kitchen layouts are an excellent way to gain extra countertop space for hassle-free cooking and baking. This classic design is a popular choice when planning a kitchen layout, and for good reason.

The l-shaped layout works by creating an efficient work triangle along two perpendicular walls with adequate space for prepping food and doubling as a place to entertain guests. Below, we’re taking a look at the most inspiring l-shaped kitchen ideas and design tips to help inspire your kitchen remodel.

A Calming Greige L-Shaped Kitchen Layout

This kitchen blends simple, traditional styling with more modern design ideals to create a relaxing environment. The predominantly muted greige tones avoid overwhelming the senses while the touches of warm wood countertops and greenery breathe life into the space.

Additionally, the mix of shelving types and sizes means that kitchen storage will never be an issue. All of this combined with a shiplap backsplash and the small seating area results in a space that you’ll enjoy spending time in.

Styled by JosefssonLjung, photographed by Alen Cordic for Nya Kvadrat

Cozy, Warm Neutrals in an L-Shaped Kitchen

This warm, neutral color palette with a large marble backsplash and simple open shelving creates additional storage and prep space without the need for a large room.

The addition of the kitchen island in this layout helps to create a faux U-shape while the walking path remains open. For extra personality and style, you could include modern and abstract decor or light fixtures.

Styled by Yngfalk interior, photographed by Mia Borgelin for Historiska Hem

Grey Kitchen Cabinets in an L-Shaped Layout

These grey kitchen cabinets are paired with tan shades, a mix of materials, and a herringbone floor come together to create a timeless style. This kitchen design provides an abundance of countertop space ideal for food prep and a peg rail which doubles as both a place for displaying decor and storing kitchen tools.

The stainless steel appliances and sink along with the silver cabinet hardware tie in well to the grey undertones of the blue as well as the veining of the marbled countertops.

Styled by Martina Mattsson, photographed by Krister Engström, via Kvarteret Makleri

Stainless Steel and Natural Wood in an L-Shaped Kitchen

For a more quaint, farmhouse kitchen design, try placing white cabinets and natural wood in a small kitchen. This kitchen design incorporates a decorative display rack and an inviting wicker bench below a large window for a cozy, welcoming feel.

The farmhouse-style sink completes the look while the full-size stove ensures functionality even with limited space.

photographed by Mia Borgelin for Historiska Hem

Bright, Airy L-Shaped Kitchen Layout

L-shaped kitchens are a great opportunity to bask in natural light provided by large windows. This kitchen layout takes advantage of this light as well as the inherent wall space to create a bright room with more countertop space and open shelves.

The cool neutrals paired with the natural woods result in an airy kitchen that acts as a breath of fresh air in the home.

styled by Apartment Studio for Stadshem

An L-Shaped Kitchen With Medium Grey Cabinetry

This subtle l-shape is a great way to make the most of a small kitchen, boost storage, and create a social hub for guests to gather in a single, simple design.

Working with the unique shapes of the room, this kitchen utilizes the narrow space between two walls to create a corner area that’s perfect for a small breakfast bar or storage for auxiliary countertop appliances.

Photographed by Henrik Linden for Alvhem

Bold Color in an L-Shaped Kitchen Layout

To create the feeling of a completely new kitchen, experiment with a bold, high-contrast color palette. This kitchen features dramatic black cabinets set against a white wall and a light-colored countertop.

It’s accented by pops of bright color in the decor and beautiful framed artwork. The matching black appliances enhance the effect and the result is a stunning room that perfectly showcases the personality of the homeowner.

Photographed by Ozolappa, styled by Yngfalk for Historiska Hem

Soft, Gentle Tones for a Breezy L-Shaped Layout

For a look that is the polar opposite of the last l-shaped kitchen, paint the cabinets with a soft shade such as very light grey, and use stainless steel small appliances.

These elements combined with a recessed subway tile backsplash create a style that is both modern and timeless. Additionally, due to the colors used and the smaller-scale appliances, an illusion of a large kitchen is created which provides a greater sense of space.

via Alvhem

Elegant Marble Countertops in an L-Shaped Kitchen

If you’re looking for an elegant kitchen remodel, this design is for you. This kitchen uses intricate crown molding and granite countertops to add a touch of luxury to the space.

By using the same shade of paint on the cabinets and the walls, the stove and backsplash are made to stand out as the focal point of the room. Plus, the mix of cabinet and drawer sizes in addition to the open and glass front shelving helps to provide subtle visual interest.

Styled by Mia Laaksonen, photographed by Henrik Linden for Alvhem

An L-Shaped Kitchen Layout With Abundant Storage Space

This kitchen layout has it all: glass front shelving, a built-in wine rack, adequate prep space, and plenty of cabinets for storage. The work triangle is catered to here with the table sitting slightly off-center for maximum maneuverability.

This layout would work great in a house that is used to host family gatherings or other events that involve a lot of food prep. The hidden refrigerator helps to maintain the design without any unnecessary distractions.

Photographed by Lisa Wikstrand, styled by Helen Sturesson for Kulladal

An L-Shape Layout With a Full-Size Dining Table

This large kitchen area makes use of the open plan space by incorporating a full-size dining table, ideal for anyone who values eating meals as a family.

The design includes a wealth of cabinets and drawers for a variety of storage options that help to keep everything organized. Additionally, the layout helps to keep everything that is most frequently used within reach.

via Alvhem

Wood and Cool Tones in an L-Shape Design

This kitchen layout idea incorporates some of the previous ideas we’ve seen into a fresh design that’s all its own. The nearly grey off-white cabinets paired with a white countertop and a mix of black and stainless steel appliances and hardware contrast just enough to add depth to the space.

Meanwhile, the warm natural woods and greenery bring an earthy feeling that ties the whole room together.

via Alvhem

Scandinavian Design Ideals in an L-Shaped Kitchen

Combine Scandinavian features and an l-shape design with a matching kitchen island for a distinctly European, minimalist style. This kitchen layout uses a mixed patterned floor for a touch of detailing while the rest of the room uses plain light wood and beige walls to further highlight the simplicity of the space.

By using black as an accent color, the eye has touch points throughout the room that keep the gaze moving.

via Innerstadtspecialisten

Timeless Style in a Traditional L-Shaped Kitchen Layout

This more traditional style works well with a large kitchen layout. The white cabinets and drawers complement the darker tones in the room well, including the refrigerator and intricate chandelier.

The table, on the other hand, is flanked by medium-toned wood chairs with a wicker seat that provides a subtle pattern that is echoed in the herringbone floor.

via Entrance Makleri

Unfinished Wood for a Rustic L-Shape Kitchen

For a natural, rustic cabin vibe, experiment with unfinished wood cabinets and an aged wooden floor. This kitchen layout is the ultimate naturalist space without sacrificing modern appliances. The granite countertop in a matching shade adds functionality while maintaining the overall styling of the kitchen.

via Historiska Hem

White and Yellow Tones in an L-Shaped Kitchen

This kitchen layout uses a monochromatic color palette of yellow and white to create a warm and inviting space.

The cabinets feature an undertone of umber which adds a bit of depth to the design and the wall shelving follows suit in a matching shade. The white tile spanning from the countertop to the ceiling also allows for versatility, creating the perfect backdrop for future color palette changes.

Styled by Clindholm Design, photographed by Jocke Ono for Historiska Hem

Small Appliances For Small L-Shaped Kitchens

Small kitchens call for small appliances, but that doesn’t mean that they can’t be stylish. This small stove, two-burner cooktop, and hidden refrigerator allow this kitchen layout to provide functionality without sacrificing countertop space. The under-mounted sink enhances this effect, ensuring that you won’t regret the lack of space.

via Entrance Makleri

L-Shaped Kitchen With Farmhouse Design Aesthetics

In the penultimate example of kitchen layouts, we have a kitchen that leans more into a farmhouse design. The simple table and cabinetry along with the farmhouse sink come together in a style that is sure to outlive the latest trends.

Plus, the modern appliances and industrial-style lighting add a little extra something to help the room transcend time.

via Alvhem

A Sleek and Simple L-Shaped Layout

For the last of our l-shaped kitchen ideas, we have a simple, sophisticated design. This kitchen features a larger sink and understated decor for a subtle touch of gracefulness while the hidden range hood helps to maintain a sleek appearance.

via Alvhem