Plants & Vases
Maximize the color impact of a bunch of flowers by going for multiple arrangements Try a mix of vases in different sizes and shapes running along the length of the island countertop. Or play off the kitchen’s color scheme with vases in similar hues, adding in clear glass vases for lightness. A potted herbs display does double duty, adding greenery and easy access for culinary cuttings. Don’t forget the warmth that a cluster of flickering votive candles in the center adds.
Drinkware
Kitchen islands make prime gathering spots for casual cocktail parties. Use the island’s extra surface area to create a spread of food and drink. In addition to appetizer plates and napkins, tack coasters in marble or stone to add organic contrast to wood countertops.
Tableware
Prepare for midday snacks or weekday dinners by laying out your favorite everyday dinnerware on the island’s counter. A wood flatware caddy alongside the dishes looks casual while adding a welcoming touch of texture. To complete the look and save space, include a mug tree featuring your favorite coffee cups.
Farmer’s Market
Celebrate the bounty of local farmers markets by placing fresh produce in appealing baskets. Wire baskets look great filled with vibrantly colored fruit. For impactful color, fill separate baskets with limes, lemons and oranges. Fuse rustic design with the comforts of home by placing a moderately sized crate loaded with your favorite cookbooks at the center of the island. As a finishing touch, place fresh lavender or baby’s breath in an antique-inspired vase.
Modern
Contemporary kitchens are defined by clean lines and crisp contours, perfect for decorating with a minimalist palette. Experiment with mixed materials by placing a marble cheese platter next to a wire basket filled with linen napkins. Potted succulents have a sculptural look that adds greenery but looks fresh in the modern kitchen. When going for minimalism, less is more so curate a small yet intentional selection of vases and bowls for the countertop centerpiece.
Practical
Since kitchen islands are used everyday by everyone in the home, make sure there’s a practical bent to your decorating ideas. A table runner folded in half and laid across the width of the countertop not only looks neat, but it also helps to establish dining, serving and work zones. Satisfy creative impulses by corralling paint brushes, crayons and markers next to sheets of colorful paper in an art caddy for an impromptu artmaking station.
Use these ideas as unique vignettes to incorporate into your kitchen space. Inspiration can come from everyday places, and small spaces are the perfect areas to experiment with new ideas and motifs. If you have your own distinct kitchen island decorating ideas, share your ingenuity with us using #CrateStyle.
