Punch Up a White Kitchen with a Contrasting Island

With white kitchens [still] all the rage, we’re starting to get bored of the sterility, the cleanliness (not so clean once you’ve cooked in it) and the nearly-bland sameness that comes with an all-white room. Fortunately, contrasting islands are also stylishly popular, breaking up the monotony of solid white.

A contrasting island is more effective than a similarly colored backsplash or fixture due to its sheer size. When paired with all- (or mostly) white perimeter cabinetry, a colorful island stands out dramatically, infusing an otherwise cold room with warmth, interest, and vibrancy.

Even a subtly contrasting island color pops against a white backdrop:

Kitchen by Tom Howley Kitchens
Kitchen by Michael Robert Construction
Kitchen by Mahoney Architects & Interiors
Kitchen by Clare Gaskin
Photo credit: Morgan Howarth Photography
Kitchen by Trend Interior Design
Kitchen by DesignLine Home Transformations
Kitchen by Gilday Renovations Design Build
Kitchen by Michael Robert Construction
Kitchen by Signature Kitchens, Inc.
Or achieve a bolder effect with a stark shade to dramatically offset the white:
Kitchen by Urban Kitchens
Kitchen by Stuart Wood Joinery
Kitchen by SWANSON RENOVATIONS, LLC

 

Kitchen by Melton Design Build

 

Kitchen by Oakley Home Builders

 

Kitcven by Gordon Weima Design Builder

 

Kitchen by Brownhouse Design, Los Altos, CA

 

Kitchen by Jewett Farms + Co.

(We’re loving that negative-style contrast on the cabinets and counters!)

 

Kitchen by Jessica Helgerson Interior Design
Or, if white kitchens aren’t your thing, reverse the contrast. A perfectly executed example:
Kitchen by THE GOOD GUYS
Pure gorgeousness.
yael