What's Making Your Kitchen Island Look Cheap?
Designers say clutter, poor materials and mismatched decor can make a kitchen island look low-end. Prioritize simplicity, quality and proportion.
NEW YORK —The kitchen island is often the heart of the room where cooking and socializing occur most often. However, design and decor can influence the flow and aesthetic of an entire kitchen.
To avoid an island that looks cheap, designers recommend avoiding clutter. Instead store tools and utensils in under-the-counter storage. Consider adding a simple vase with flowers or an artful stack of cookbooks to provide balance. You can store utensils in simple vessels or crocks, but don't have too many.
Countertops should not look worn out or damaged. Choose a countertop with lower maintenance or that is more durable if the kitchen island is used regularly for food prep and cooking.
Elevate the island with a decorative edge. Don't use counter stools that are low quality. Instead choose ones that are stylish and high quality, as well as ones that mesh with the current design of the overall kitchen.
In a white kitchen, for example, choose stools that can add color or unique design elements to the space. Also consider how stools look from behind.
Kitchen islands also should not be oversized for the space because it can throw off the balance of the entire space and layout. Large kitchen islands in small spaces will overwhelm the room and disrupt the flow of meal prep. Choose an island with purpose and proportion in mind.
Finally, too many contrasting materials in the kitchen and its island can make the space look cluttered and mismatched. Prioritize functionality, quality materials, simplicity and integrated appliances to find a cohesive look for the kitchen.
Source: Homes & Gardens (06/03/25) Malsom, Molly
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