Creative Seating
An assortment of old stools provides exceptional charm from the kitchen of this Oregon home. The concrete countertops are out of Cement Elegance.

Extra Storage
What is hiding in the island? Just a little bit of everything! This workbench houses drygoods, office equipment, and even various wrapping papers.

Color-Blocked Accents
Zippy bursts of solid colours, like the row of candy-hued stools at the kitchen island, are vibrant without overpowering the kitchen of this Minnesota lake cabin. "Using larger chunks of colour versus small, intricate patterns creates a bolder state-ment that is also easier on the eye," says interior designer Michelle Fries, who helped plan the space.

Steely White
Stainless steel countertops bring a hint of industrial glow to the kitchen of this Kansas home. Furnished with Pottery Barn stools painted white to match the custom cabinets, the island provides a place to sit while prepping food.

Handcrafted Style
At the kitchen of this Connecticut house, a vintage table serves as a prep island.

Corner Space
The 16-square-foot island within this very small farmhouse makes smart use of corner storage.

Farmhouse Vibe
A Texas couple breathes new life into their 100-year-old home such as using a thoughtful mix of materials from walls that are reclaimed for their own kitchen island.

Dark and Light
Offsetting the gleaming white appliances in this California house: an island with dark soapstone counters and backsplashes, as well as ash cabinetry painted a muted gray-green (Paris Gray by Annie Sloan Chalk Paint). The wicker stools are by Palecek.

Renovated Island
In this Illinois bungalow, the kitchen island incorporates parts via an antique sideboard, while an opulent chandelier and vivid classic fridge add grandeur to a little area.
