A kitchen island is more than just a utility space, it is the soul of your kitchen where you prepare meals, gather for family dinners, and make memories.
But oftentimes, the kitchen island we are left with is plain, boring, and seen simply as a utility. And this defeats the very purpose of a personalized kitchen which is all about you, your tastes, and comfort.
So why not turn this space into a stunning centerpiece that combines both style and practicality?
Yes, such kitchen makeovers are possible, and some simple ideas to decorate kitchen island are all you need.
Read on, as I’ve shared easy and unique kitchen island ideas to get you inspired and make your kitchen the envy of everyone.
DIY ideas to decorate kitchen island on Long Island
1. Bring in elements of nature
I’ve said this before, and I’ll say this again: Bringing in nature indoors will instantly make your space feel warmer, more inviting, and alive.
And it is even simpler for a kitchen island since you can do something as basic as a wooden bowl filled with seasonal fruits. Here, the vivid colors of the fruits will contrast beautifully against the wooden texture of the bowl and add depth.
Also, you can also have a vase filled with seasonal flowers like fresh tulips in spring or sunflowers in summer. You see, not only will these natural touches make your space look more organic, but they will also create a sense of calm.
Want more ways to decorate a modern large kitchen island?
Well, if you’re lucky enough to have a good view of the outdoors, I suggest you add an indoor plant or two. This can be anywhere from like a small potted fern or succulent and it will make your kitchen feel like a true retreat.
2. Try creative hacks with decorative trays
If you’re someone like me who absolutely loves a clutter-free space, I suggest you try decorative trays on your kitchen island. This will both organize your kitchen better and serve as a design feature.
After all, trays are not just for serving and you can also use them to keep items like salt and pepper shakers, olive oil bottles, etc., all in one place.
The idea is simple: These decor trays will group together all such items that otherwise create a visual chaos.
Take it from me, this simple hack will add a touch of elegance to your kitchen and help you maintain a neat look.
Bonus: From metal to wood to marble, and more, there are endless decor tray options on the market, all available on a budget.
Sounds awesome, doesn’t it?
3. Add pendant lights above the island
Lighting is among the easiest DIY hacks to improve the design of any room in almost an instant. And when it comes to decorating a kitchen island, pendant lights both illuminate the space and serve as an important focal point.
In fact, pick the right pendant light and it can make all the difference between a regular functional kitchen and one that feels stylish and well curated.
Now, when it comes to buying pendant lights, I suggest you choose ones that align with your kitchen’s style.
For instance, if you’re looking for contemporary lighting ideas to decorate kitchen island, you can go for sleek minimalist fixtures with clean lines.
Similarly, if you’re looking to add warmth and charm, vintage-inspired fixtures like Edison bulbs or lantern-style pendants could be the ones for you.
4. Install seating
You’ll agree when I say that a kitchen island is much more than just a place to prepare meals. Moreover, on special occasions it can easily transform into a social hub.
So, add some stools to the island and you’ll create a cozy spot for casual dining or simply hanging out.
Also, it will become a welcoming spot where you can gather with family or entertain guests.
Talking about the stools, you can consider colors and materials that complement the island. And to that end, you could either match the island’s color or mix things up with stools that contrast it, just like the latest kitchen cabinet color trends.
Pro tip: Consider stools with cushions or backs if you’re looking for extra support.
5. Display some cookbooks
Cookbooks are not only functional but they also inject personality into your kitchen, that too for a tiny fraction of the cost of regular kitchen remodel.
In fact, I love to showcase a few of my favorite cookbooks on the kitchen island. They’re like a mini library in my kitchen, and it’s always nice to have them within arm’s reach when I am looking for cooking inspirations.
You can keep your cookbooks in a neat pile for a casual look or spread them out for a more curated feel.
Even better, if you have any cookbooks with beautiful covers, they can double as art pieces.
Yet another of many exciting cookbook ideas for decorating kitchen island is to use them as a platform for other decorative items like a vase or bowl. This creates an eye-catching arrangement and sets your kitchen apart.
6. Make the space greener
Ever wondered what’s the one hack that can instantly breathe life into your kitchen?
Well, you can do so by adding a few green plants to the kitchen islands.
You see, plants don’t just purify the air, but they also add a calming and refreshing vibe to your space.
And it’s not difficult either, you just need to get a few small potted plants like basil, thyme, or rosemary.
Aesthetics apart, these plants will also give you fresh ingredients for cooking and boost your mood every time you step in the kitchen.
7. Showcase some stylish storage jars
If you’re anything like me, you like your kitchen to be both functional and beautiful. And stylish storage jars are a great way to achieve that balance.
Think about clear glass jars filled with pasta, grains, or colorful cookies, anything that’s visually appealing and easy to grab when cooking.
The beauty of storage jars is that they add both color and texture to your kitchen island while also keeping your essentials organized.
All you’ve got to do is pick jars that have a decorative body and lid, such as brass, wood, or ceramic.
See, it’s that simple!
Whether you’re storing dry goods or using them to display a collection of cookies or candy, these jars keep everything neat and accessible.
8. Add a chalkboard panel
What can be better than combining utility and creativity with a chalkboard panel to the side of your kitchen island?
This simple yet effective touch allows you to jot down grocery lists, write out meal plans, or even leave sweet messages for family members.
Moreover, it’s a great place to be a little artistic too. So much so that from changing up your doodles to adding inspirational quotes each week, you can do it all.
What’s more?
I’ve seen people DIY this space to their standard kitchen cabinet dimensions and use it to track family schedules or write down their latest culinary creations.
Plus, it’s an interactive way to engage with the space and make your kitchen island more than just a place to prepare meals.
9. Seasonal decor
Let the season decide decor and keep your kitchen island feeling fresh and in tune with the time of year.
Interesting, isn’t it?
You see, each season offers a wealth of beautiful decorative ideas, something you can use to the vibe of the season.
For instance, you can fill a bowl with mini pumpkins or acorns in the fall. Similarly, you can have a small arrangement of pinecones for a cozy touch during winters.
Not only does this seasonal touch keep your kitchen island feeling current but it also gives you the opportunity to celebrate the changing seasons.
3 Things to consider when decorating your kitchen island
While the above ideas to decorate kitchen island are practical and DIY worthy, it is essential you don’t lose sight of a few things. That’s because, at the end of the day you still want to use the space for its utility.
So, here are few things I suggest you keep in mind when implementing yout kitchen island inspiration:
1. Don’t lose sight of utility
It’s tempting to load up your kitchen island with decorative items, and I can’t agree more. But it is also important to not lose sight of its primary functions.
Your kitchen island still serves as a space for food prep, cooking, dining, and entertaining. So, any decor should improve and not obstruct these activities.
2. Proportion of decor matters
When it comes to kitchen island decor, size truly matters. Meaning the decor you choose should be proportionate to the size of your island and it shouldn’t overwhelm or underwhelm the space.
For instance, a large grandiose vase might look amazing in a large kitchen with island but would appear out of place on a smaller one. At the same time, tiny decor pieces don’t fit large kitchen island decor ideas at all.
3. Be consistent
One of the most important factors in creating a stylish kitchen island is consistency. And to that end, your island decor should complement the overall theme of your kitchen.
After all, while a cohesive design will tie the space together beautifully, a mishmash of decor styles can lead to a cluttered and chaotic kitchen aesthetics.
FAQs about decorations for a kitchen island
How often should you update your kitchen island decor?
Keeping your kitchen island decor fresh is all about balance. So, I suggest updating your decor seasonally or at least twice a year.
You can introduce warm and cozy accents like pumpkins and candles for fall, and then swap in bright flowers and citrus fruits for spring.
Can you mix different decor styles?
Absolutely!
You can mix decor styles to add character and interest to your kitchen island.
For instance, I have combined rustic elements with modern touches and even blended industrial and farmhouse vibes.
What materials are best for kitchen island decor?
The materials you choose for your kitchen island decor should be both practical and visually appealing.
For instance, materials like wood, metal, and ceramic are perfect because they can withstand the high-traffic kitchen environment and are also easy to clean.
You might also want to read – A Step-by-step Kitchen Remodel Guide For DIYers.
To sum up
As you can see, there are plenty of ideas to decorate kitchen island. In fact, you can go all out DIY with these ideas as you need not be a home renovation contractor to decorate your space.
So, let your creative flair touch the sky and try some or all of these kitchen island ideas.
Got more questions or need a full-scale kitchen renovation?
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At Creative Design Ceramic & Tile, we are seasoned kitchen and home remodeling experts with 38+ years of experience under our belts. And we’ve got all your kitchen redesign and rebuild requirements covered on a budget.