{"id":3128,"date":"2017-12-18T21:21:28","date_gmt":"2017-12-18T21:21:28","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.rtacabinetstore.com\/blog\/?p=3128"},"modified":"2025-05-20T19:25:46","modified_gmt":"2025-05-20T19:25:46","slug":"kitchen-island-ideas-ordinary","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.rtacabinetstore.com\/blog\/kitchen-island-ideas-ordinary\/","title":{"rendered":"Kitchen Island Ideas Beyond the Ordinary"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>Kitchen islands are more than just an extra counter\u2014they&#8217;re the heart of a modern kitchen and an opportunity to inject both functionality and personality into your space. Whether you\u2019re dealing with a spacious open-plan kitchen or a more compact layout, these kitchen island ideas go beyond the ordinary to inspire your next remodel.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.rtacabinetstore.com\/RTA-Kitchen-Cabinets\/slim-white-oak\"><img loading=\"lazy\" width=\"1024\" height=\"721\" src=\"https:\/\/www.rtacabinetstore.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/RTA-6-Tricks-to-Help-You-Build-a-Color-Palette-around-Your-Cabinets-hero-1024x721.jpg\" alt=\"Nautral wood tone skinny shaker cabinets with lazy susan in the corner.\" class=\"wp-image-7318\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.rtacabinetstore.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/RTA-6-Tricks-to-Help-You-Build-a-Color-Palette-around-Your-Cabinets-hero-1024x721.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.rtacabinetstore.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/RTA-6-Tricks-to-Help-You-Build-a-Color-Palette-around-Your-Cabinets-hero-600x423.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.rtacabinetstore.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/RTA-6-Tricks-to-Help-You-Build-a-Color-Palette-around-Your-Cabinets-hero-768x541.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.rtacabinetstore.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/RTA-6-Tricks-to-Help-You-Build-a-Color-Palette-around-Your-Cabinets-hero-640x451.jpg 640w, https:\/\/www.rtacabinetstore.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/RTA-6-Tricks-to-Help-You-Build-a-Color-Palette-around-Your-Cabinets-hero.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2>Small Kitchen Island Ideas That Maximize Space<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Not every kitchen has room for a large island, but that doesn\u2019t mean you have to miss out. Consider these space-saving solutions:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul><li>Rolling Kitchen Islands: A mobile island provides prep space when you need it and can be tucked away when you don\u2019t.<\/li><li>Open Shelving: Opt for open storage under your island to keep essentials handy while making the room feel more open.<\/li><li>Built-in Table Extension: Combine dining and prep space by integrating a fold-out table.<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.rtacabinetstore.com\/RTA-Kitchen-Cabinets\/weston-sand-shaker\"><img loading=\"lazy\" width=\"1024\" height=\"660\" src=\"https:\/\/www.rtacabinetstore.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/RTA-Quick-DIY-Upgrades-for-Cabinets-Open-Shelves-1024x660.jpg\" alt=\"Mid size white kitchen with seating at an island.\" class=\"wp-image-7317\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.rtacabinetstore.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/RTA-Quick-DIY-Upgrades-for-Cabinets-Open-Shelves-1024x660.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.rtacabinetstore.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/RTA-Quick-DIY-Upgrades-for-Cabinets-Open-Shelves-600x387.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.rtacabinetstore.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/RTA-Quick-DIY-Upgrades-for-Cabinets-Open-Shelves-768x495.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.rtacabinetstore.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/RTA-Quick-DIY-Upgrades-for-Cabinets-Open-Shelves-640x412.jpg 640w, https:\/\/www.rtacabinetstore.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/RTA-Quick-DIY-Upgrades-for-Cabinets-Open-Shelves.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2>Kitchen Ideas with Island Seating<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Kitchen islands with seating can transform your space into a social hub. Depending on your needs, you might include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul><li>Breakfast Bar Overhang: Perfect for casual meals or coffee chats.<\/li><li>Banquette Seating: Adds comfort and charm, especially in family-focused kitchens.<\/li><li>Mixed-Height Surfaces: Create distinct zones for dining, prep, and entertaining.<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" width=\"1024\" height=\"555\" src=\"https:\/\/www.rtacabinetstore.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/DoubleIsland-SocialHub-1024x555.jpg\" alt=\"Large kitchen with white cabinets and a double island with two people working in the kitchen.\" class=\"wp-image-7289\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.rtacabinetstore.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/DoubleIsland-SocialHub-1024x555.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.rtacabinetstore.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/DoubleIsland-SocialHub-600x325.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.rtacabinetstore.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/DoubleIsland-SocialHub-768x416.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.rtacabinetstore.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/DoubleIsland-SocialHub-640x347.jpg 640w, https:\/\/www.rtacabinetstore.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/DoubleIsland-SocialHub.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2>Kitchen Island Design Ideas with Function in Mind<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3>Built-In Computer Workstation<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Do you find your laptop constantly migrating to the kitchen table? Embrace the trend and build a computer workstation into your island. Using cabinet components from <a href=\"https:\/\/www.rtacabinetstore.com\/RTA-Kitchen-Cabinets\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">RTA Cabinet Store<\/a>, you can create:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul><li>An elevated computer shelf that protects your tech from spills<\/li><li>A docking station and built-in outlets for convenience<\/li><li>Shelving below for cookbooks, games, or office supplies<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3>Wine Refrigerator Integration<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Wine lovers, rejoice! A compact wine fridge built into your island keeps your collection perfectly chilled and accessible\u2014ideal for entertaining or quiet evenings at home. Install it on the side facing the dining area or patio for easy access without interrupting kitchen workflow.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3>Multi-Level Island Design<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Every family is different\u2014your island should be, too. Create a layout with:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul><li>Lowered sections (30&#8243;) for seated prep, accessibility, or children<\/li><li>Standard sections (36&#8243;) for general cooking tasks<\/li><li>Raised sections (42&#8243;-48&#8243;) as bar-height surfaces for tall users or guests<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>RTA Cabinet Store offers modular cabinetry that makes it simple to customize island heights to fit your needs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" width=\"1024\" height=\"555\" src=\"https:\/\/www.rtacabinetstore.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/White-Oak-The-Timeless-Allure-of-White-Oak-in-Kitchen-Design-1024x555.jpg\" alt=\"Large kitchen with warm wood cabinets and white countertops with matte nickel hardware.\" class=\"wp-image-7285\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.rtacabinetstore.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/White-Oak-The-Timeless-Allure-of-White-Oak-in-Kitchen-Design-1024x555.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.rtacabinetstore.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/White-Oak-The-Timeless-Allure-of-White-Oak-in-Kitchen-Design-600x325.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.rtacabinetstore.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/White-Oak-The-Timeless-Allure-of-White-Oak-in-Kitchen-Design-768x416.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.rtacabinetstore.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/White-Oak-The-Timeless-Allure-of-White-Oak-in-Kitchen-Design-640x347.jpg 640w, https:\/\/www.rtacabinetstore.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/White-Oak-The-Timeless-Allure-of-White-Oak-in-Kitchen-Design.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2>Unique Kitchen Island Decor Ideas<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Add character and style with these finishing touches:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul><li>Waterfall Countertops: A sleek, modern edge that creates a high-end look.<\/li><li>Accent Cabinet Colors: Use navy, forest green, or matte black to make your island pop.<\/li><li>Glass-Front Cabinets: Showcase your best dishes or barware with a touch of elegance.<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2>Kitchen Island Pendant Lighting Ideas<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Lighting can dramatically elevate your kitchen island. Consider:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul><li>Statement Pendants: Oversized or sculptural fixtures create a focal point.<\/li><li>Linear Lights: Sleek and modern, great for long islands.<\/li><li>Adjustable Fixtures: Ideal for layered lighting, combining task and ambient light.<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><em>Pro tip: Space your pendants evenly and keep them 30\u201336 inches above the island surface for ideal illumination.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.rtacabinetstore.com\/RTA-Kitchen-Cabinets\/weston-white-shaker\"><img loading=\"lazy\" width=\"1024\" height=\"555\" src=\"https:\/\/www.rtacabinetstore.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/DoubleIsland-Hero-1024x555.jpg\" alt=\"Large kitchen with two islands, one large and one small in a white and marble kitchen.\" class=\"wp-image-7290\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.rtacabinetstore.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/DoubleIsland-Hero-1024x555.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.rtacabinetstore.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/DoubleIsland-Hero-600x325.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.rtacabinetstore.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/DoubleIsland-Hero-768x416.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.rtacabinetstore.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/DoubleIsland-Hero-640x347.jpg 640w, https:\/\/www.rtacabinetstore.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/DoubleIsland-Hero.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2>Kitchen Layout Ideas with Island<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Your island should complement\u2014not complicate\u2014your kitchen workflow. Popular configurations include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul><li>Galley Layouts with a Narrow Island: Adds workspace without obstructing flow.<\/li><li>L-Shaped Kitchens with a Peninsular Island: Great for open-plan living.<\/li><li>U-Shaped Kitchens with a Center Island: Offers maximum storage and multi-sided access.<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3>Ready to Design Your Dream Island?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Whether you&#8217;re upgrading a small kitchen or planning a full-scale renovation, these kitchen island ideas with seating, lighting, and smart design features can help you make the most of your space.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.rtacabinetstore.com\/RTA-Kitchen-Cabinets\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Explore RTA Cabinet Store\u2019s range<\/a> of ready-to-assemble cabinets and components to bring your vision to life.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Let your kitchen island be more than just extra counterspace\u2014make it the centerpiece of your dream kitchen.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.rtacabinetstore.com\/assets\/html\/free-kitchen-design\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Talk to Us about Your Kitchen Island<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Kitchen islands are a great place to express personal touches in your kitchen design, without disrupting the kitchen\u2019s core functionality.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":4,"featured_media":7319,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":[],"categories":[114],"tags":[2224,541],"amp_validity":null,"amp_enabled":true,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.rtacabinetstore.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3128"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.rtacabinetstore.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.rtacabinetstore.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.rtacabinetstore.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/4"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.rtacabinetstore.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=3128"}],"version-history":[{"count":4,"href":"https:\/\/www.rtacabinetstore.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3128\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":7329,"href":"https:\/\/www.rtacabinetstore.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3128\/revisions\/7329"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.rtacabinetstore.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/7319"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.rtacabinetstore.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=3128"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.rtacabinetstore.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=3128"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.rtacabinetstore.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=3128"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}