These Are the Only Kitchen Island Trends Interior Designers Are Paying Attention to This Year
From freestanding designs to sculptural forms, these are the looks to know about
You are now subscribed
Your newsletter sign-up was successful
Want to add more newsletters?
Twice a week
Homes&Gardens
The ultimate interior design resource from the world's leading experts - discover inspiring decorating ideas, color scheming know-how, garden inspiration and shopping expertise.
Once a week
In The Loop from Next In Design
Members of the Next in Design Circle will receive In the Loop, our weekly email filled with trade news, names to know and spotlight moments. Together we’re building a brighter design future.
Twice a week
Cucina
Whether you’re passionate about hosting exquisite dinners, experimenting with culinary trends, or perfecting your kitchen's design with timeless elegance and innovative functionality, this newsletter is here to inspire
The kitchen is the heart of the home, but the island is the heart of the kitchen. And if you want to make a real statement with this central hub, this year's kitchen island trends are just the inspiration you need.
Your kitchen island has a huge impact on the style and function of your whole space, from colors and materials to the storage styles you introduce. And while we aren't suggesting you choose a design based entirely on kitchen trends, there are a few looks this year that are worth considering.
10 Kitchen Island Trends Turning Heads in 2026
There's an art to designing a kitchen island. It needs to be a striking design feature, yet also function for everyday life, and more often than not, multiple uses. So, whether you're starting from scratch and deciding between different island types and designs, or need some inspiration to refresh your space, these are the kitchen island trends worth knowing in 2026.
1. Curved and Sculptural Forms
This curvaceous design proves just how elevated a rounded island can be, especially when wood is combined with a striking burgundy countertop.
Curves are a big topic of conversation in this year's trends, and while there are plenty of ways to introduce them, a curved kitchen island can often be the most striking.
'Straight lines are giving way to softer, more organic shapes. Curved islands and gently rounded waterfall edges create a sense of flow and approachability, particularly in open-plan kitchens. These sculptural forms feel intentional and help soften large spaces without sacrificing functionality,' says Cathleen.
In this kitchen designed by Susannah Holmberg Studios, the whole island has been curved, from the wooden base to the burgundy marble countertops. The result is a softer finish that encourages a less rigid flow around the space.
2. The Dairy Table Revival
A marble countertop is a must on a dairy table. It looks utterly timeless, but this natural material is traditionally the most functional for food prep.
We've been noting a few traditional kitchen features making a comeback recently, and in 2026, it's the dairy table that's enjoying a revival. Classic in style and a freestanding alternative to a built-in, it bridges the gap between table and island.
'Dairy Tables straddle the kitchen table and the island; they feel and look like a table, yet they are more of a prep space. They feel much less kitchen-y than an island, more a beautiful heirloom piece of furniture,' says Helen Parker, creative director of deVOL Kitchens.
'They bring a lighter, more relaxed feel to a kitchen and help soften what can otherwise be a very architectural space. These designs often combine practical storage, such as drawers, with more open sides facing into the room, which allows the island to visually connect with the surrounding living space,' adds Pringle & Pringle founder, Sophie Pringle.
'This is particularly effective in open-plan homes where the kitchen sits alongside dining and living areas. In a recent project, we lifted the island on small legs to give it that furniture-like quality, which immediately made the room feel more welcoming and less kitchen-first.'
3. Mixed Storage Styles
A small section of open shelving on this island creates a space for personal pieces that add so much character to the space. It signifies that the kitchen is lived-in and used.
Your island is no longer a place for only hidden kitchen storage. In 2026, trends are encouraging a more mixed approach, offering both closed and open storage to create a more personalized and layered look.
'Mix of open and closed storage, creative hidden storage, dramatic natural stone countertop, and personality. I would start by adding hidden storage on the ends and backside of the island, but intentionally making them look like fixed panels,' says Maggie Goodrich of Third Street Architecture.
'Then, fine-tuning those smaller details to elevate the space with living finishes for the hardware, decorative toe kick, shelving with a decorative bracket, and then opening shelving brings in a level of interest as well. Displaying a mix of cookbooks, books, and decor.'
4. Vintage Freestanding Islands And Carts
Once you opt for a portable kitchen island, you will never go back. In this kitchen, a vintage table with castors has been used, but in smaller spaces, we recommend the FÖRHÖJA Kitchen Cart from IKEA.
A small kitchen trend that can be scaled up to suit a larger space, the emergence of vintage tables and carts on castors is one we simply can't ignore. It's characterful, of course, but it's also one of the most practical ways to create moveable surface space.
'I think we’ll see a real move away from overly fitted kitchen islands and a return to islands that feel more like standalone pieces of furniture. Whether vintage, antique, or made to measure, the key is that they look freestanding rather than built-in,' says Carina Raymond, Founder of Studio Raymond.
'These pieces add depth and individuality as they feel collected over time rather than designed all at once. A standalone island also allows the kitchen to feel more flexible and less showroom, which I think will be especially important as we move into 2026 and people continue to prioritise warmth, longevity, and personality in their homes.'
5. Integrated Outlets For Island Lamps
The table lamp on this kitchen island adds a softer texture and a subtle pattern to the space.
Kitchen countertop lamps have become a must-have in any kitchen, perfect for layered lighting and creating a cozy atmosphere. But in 2026, designers say it's time to integrate outlets into your island, so you can feature a charming lamp here, too.
'Kitchen islands are becoming much more considered and multi-functional, and lighting is a big part of that shift. In projects with vaulted ceilings or barn-style conversions, pendants aren’t always practical or desirable, so we’re increasingly designing islands with sockets specifically for table lamps,' says Melissa Hutley, co-founder of Hutley & Humm.
'It’s a softer, more atmospheric way to introduce low-level lighting and makes the island feel less like a purely functional workspace and more like a piece of furniture within the room,' she explains. And she's not the only one gravitating towards island lamps in 2026.
'Styling plays a crucial role in reinforcing the furniture feel of these islands. Adding a table lamp is one of our favourite tricks as it instantly makes the island feel more domestic and helps it sit comfortably within a living space rather than reading as a purely functional surface,' agrees Sophie.
6. Furniture-Style Islands
The turned legs at the end of this blue island create a more custom look and a traditional decorative detail.
Even if you can't facilitate a freestanding island, built-in designs are also emulating that more furniture style of design. Instead of straight, angular edges, forms are becoming more decorative, taking inspiration from coffee tables and dressers.
'I expect kitchen islands that look like pieces of furniture with ornate legs will be trending in 2026. People’s interest in craftsmanship and one-of-a-kind pieces are the key factors driving this pivot in design,' says Mary Beth Sullivan of MB Sullivan Design
It's a trend that reflects the shift towards more lived-in schemes, much like the soft kitchen trend, which encourages you to embrace warmer colors, softer textures, and details that emulate furniture found in living rooms. It takes the stark, utilitarian feel of the past designs and transforms them into something more inviting.
7. Colorful Island Accessories
Bringing in colorful island accessories doesn't have to be bold. The green tones here are subtle, yet still impactful.
Not every trend focuses on the bones of the island, but the small decorative details you can add to bring it to life. In this case, it's colorful accessories and ornate hardware, things that add personality and interest to your island.
'The island accessories are where we love to have a little fun. Introducing colorful counter stools, patterned textiles, or statement kitchen hardware can instantly bring warmth and energy to the space. These elements allow homeowners to layer in personality and create a kitchen that feels both functional and uniquely their own,' says Sandy Baisley and Natasia Smith at RE-FIND.
It's a great way to experiment with new colors and details without the commitment of introducing them through the island itself. In this kitchen, the dark green upholstered bar stools add a touch more character and tie in beautifully with the wall tiles.
8. Mixed Material Designs
'We've styled this space with warm white limewashed walls, zellige tiles, and stone cobbles for the floor. A neutral space, but one jam-packed with texture, contrasting materials, and warmth,' says Lauren.
We often talk about mixing palettes for contrast, but what if you're not a fan of colorful kitchens? Well, mixing materials is the most on-trend way to add interest to your design in 2026, shown perfectly in the scheme with wood cabinets and a striking stainless steel island.
'We always love mixing materials and textures to create layered interiors, and no more so than in kitchens, which can tend to be quite flat. A kitchen island is a great place to add another texture, and with the popularity of natural timber for cabinetry continuing, stainless steel offers a contemporary and practical option for a feature island,' says interior designer Lauren Gilberthorpe.
'Contrast will remain a defining feature in 2026 kitchens,' agrees Cathleen Gruver of Gruver Cooley. 'Islands are becoming an opportunity to introduce layered materials such as warm wood bases paired with honed stone tops or matte cabinetry accented with metal details. This approach adds depth and character while allowing the island to stand out as a focal point within the kitchen.'
9. Faceted and Architectural Islands
The green stone takes on an asymmetrical form, creating a sculptural centerpiece that draws your eye as soon as you enter the room.
For many people, the island is a real workhorse for storage, but there's an opportunity to create something truly showstopping. It's the first thing you see when you enter a kitchen, so why not embrace a more sculptural, architectural design?
'We are seeing a rise in faceted and architectural islands, where form is just as important as function. In a recent family home near Radlett, we partnered with Studio Duggan to create an island in Verde Guatemala polished marble, paired with matching wall cladding and an unlacquered, wrapped brass surround,' says Tom Wicksteed, co-owner and director at 202 Design.
'The faceted detailing allows light to interact with the stone differently throughout the day, giving the island a dynamic, almost jewel-like quality. It is a perfect example of how craftsmanship and materiality are driving kitchen design forward. Ultimately, it reflects a shift towards kitchens that feel more intentional and expressive. They are spaces designed to be lived in, admired, and enjoyed for years to come.'
10. Colorful Islands With Custom Panels
A detail as simple as a custom panel at the end of an island can be so impactful. In this kitchen, the geometric design matches the glass-fronted cabinets, forming a sense of cohesion.
You've probably noticed a theme throughout this year's kitchen island trends. Custom details are at the forefront, and with this trend, it's about colorful islands that offer more than just a pretty hue to stand out
'A kitchen island trend in 2026 will be incorporating color into the kitchen with a contrast finish and details like custom panels that differ from the perimeter cabinetry. This is a great way to create a punch in an otherwise classic space,' says Kara Cox, founder of Kara Cox Interiors.
Cathleen agrees, adding 'Kitchen islands are increasingly being used as a place to introduce color and personality. Deep greens, navy tones, and warm earth-inspired hues are popular choices for island cabinetry, often paired with more neutral perimeter cabinets. These richer finishes add warmth and individuality while still feeling timeless.'
This year's kitchen island trends all point to custom-inspired designs and forms that feel more like furniture than a built-in structure. There are a few different kitchen island layouts that come into play, but they all point to a shift towards more lived-in style. And here at Homes & Gardens, it's something we are all pleased to see.
