Island Time

Though often described as a workhorse, there’s a lot of sophistication to be found in a carefully designed kitchen island. A space that marries form and function—and often serves as a focal point—as the above design by Charlotte-based Mary Tobias Miller Interior Design shows, with the right mix of elements (statement lighting, anyone?) this multi-use area can be stylish oasis in the busiest room of the house.

Gorgeous black lanterns give weight to a kitchen done in soft, neutral hues by Dallas-based Laura Lee ClarkWith plenty of central surface area, there is ample room to prep while a four-person counter offers a place for people to sit and chat while taking in a view of a beautiful backsplash.   

Here, Atlanta’s Susan B. Bozeman Designs, Inc. expertly incorporates color in a stunning white kitchen featuring countertops and a backsplash done in Carrara marble. The cool blue grey island marries beautifully with the dark floors, and the lanterns above draw the eye up without obstructing a view of the hood.  Soothing tones, soaring ceilings, a beautiful single lantern and a statement-making hood make us want to pull up a stool in this space by San Antonio’s M Interiors. 

With a mix of modern and traditional elements, gleaming pendants, and plenty of texture, this kitchen by Little Rock’s Bear Hill Interiors keeps the eye moving and has an absolutely inviting vibe. The ample island seems like the ideal place to read the paper in the morning or unwind with a glass of wine while contemplating dinner. 

Earlier this week, the experts at Minneapolis-based Martha O’Hara Interiors discussed the do’s and don’ts of kitchen island lighting with us, and the above project illustrates their advice—plus the fact that they can create a truly gorgeous kitchen. Beautiful cabinetry, a coffered ceiling, and a spacious chandelier-lit island are just a few of the reasons this space makes us swoon.

Above, Atlanta’s Beth Webb Interiors created the perfect modern rustic kitchen with gorgeous warm wood, exposed beams, sophisticated marble counters and backsplash, and stunning black pendants. 

Denver’s Nadia Watts Interior Design provides another example of how incorporating a black element—in this case a black range hood—adds drama and style to a space. Paired with a grey subway backsplash, pale green cabinets, and a dark blue Carrara-topped island with stunning pendants above, the overall effect is a chic mix in a highly functional space. 

Again, Beth Webb Interiors creates a stylish moment with statement lighting in the form of four brass pendants over a beautiful wood island in front of an eye-catching backsplash. The room exudes warmth, while light neutrals and clean lines keep everything feeling fresh. 

In a 2013 project that recently went on the market, Houston’s Creative Tonic designed an absolutely stunning space featuring white cabinets, brass accents, and a kitchen island punctuated by brass-lined pendants that looks like the ideal place to perch.

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