Incorporating a cooktop into this breathtaking marble kitchen island lets the user make the most of available prep space. Photo via Houzz  © Anthony Crisafulli.  

Now that fall is in full-force here in New England, this headline probably got your attention! We don’t blame you for dreaming of pristine beaches and azure blue water, but we’re talking about a different kind of island. Recently, MSN.com featured an article “19 Celebrity Kitchens That Will Make You Jealous.” Here at Marble & Granite, Inc. we noticed a trend in all of these to-die-for kitchens of the rich and famous: every one makes a statement with a breathtaking island.

Though it’s a different kind of “island paradise,” these drool-worthy kitchen islands of the stars make use of some of the most requested island elements in the industry today. From Billy Joel’s island that offers seating for six to Jennifer Lawrence’s stainless steel utilitarian dream, these islands feature beautiful marble  and granite  countertops and all the gourmet accessories a star could desire.

But you don’t have to be a celebrity to enjoy the island life. Here are a few of today’s top trends in kitchen islands that you can incorporate into your own home:

Unique shapes: Just like their natural counterparts, many of today’s most alluring islands are not square or rectangular. Building a kitchen island with a unique shape adds interest and makes a statement. Today’s island designs feature everything from s-shapes and horseshoes to perfectly circular forms.

Statement-making countertops: Some of today’s hottest islands shine the spotlight on the countertop material itself. Sometimes this is done with a striking marble pattern or unique granite veining. Sometimes it’s taken a step further with exceptionally thick slabs (or surfacing cut to look like very thick slabs.) One particularly stunning way to add drama to an island is with a waterfall edge. (Every tropical island deserves a beautiful waterfall!) Extending the countertop surfacing the whole way to the floor helps show off the beauty of the surfacing material while also creating a sleek, modern look.

Cooktops: Incorporating your cooktop into the island makes use of the island’s central location so that countertop space can be maximized for prep work. It’s also a great layout for those who love to entertain. Imagine being the star in your own kitchen while friends and family gather around!

Mixed Levels: Just as island vacation spots offer different activities at each elevation—sandy beaches at sea level and breathtaking mountain hikes higher up—kitchen islands can offer something new on every level. Try incorporating a raised area for eating. This keeps guests at eye-level, but also protects them from hot grease or cooking splatter. Add a lower spot for storage or even for standard-sized dining chairs just to mix it up a bit. Incorporating multiple levels in an island helps define various workspaces and creates visual interest.

Statement Lighting: The lighting above your island can make a very bold statement. Choose a dramatic chandelier or colorful pendant lights. They help to visually engage visitors more so than recessed lights that sit flush with the ceiling. Plus, lighting gives homeowners a chance to really show off their unique personality. There are so many materials, designs, and styles to choose from that lighting can help you set the stage any way you like.

Have these kitchen island trends inspired you with some new ideas for your kitchen? Let Marble & Granite, Inc. help you select the countertop material that will work best with your unique new design. Give us a call at 877-39-STONE to make an appointment with our talented and experienced surfacing experts. Or feel free to drop by one of our two New England showrooms to see what we have to offer.