45 Farmhouse Kitchen Island Ideas to Update the Heart of Your Home

Published: November 25, 2021

Updated: October 30, 2023

If you’re looking to add something to your kitchen that makes a huge impact, a farmhouse kitchen island should be on your shortlist. These types of islands are my favorite for an abundance of reasons—their unique look, versatility, warmth—but it mainly boils down to them striking the perfect balance between style and function. Sure, most kitchen islands can add extra space for food prep, eating, and storage. But you would be hard-pressed to find one that does it with as much flair as a farmhouse kitchen island!

Kitchen islands add function to the heart of the home while upping the style factor—all in one go. They stand out with textural wood accents, their playful mingling of matte and gloss materials, unusual builds, and signature farmhouse patterns like shiplap and X braces. There are even some that add color with dreamy shades like ocean blue and pastel green.

Whether you’re on the fence about what type of island you want or are looking for fresh farmhouse kitchen island ideas, you don’t want to miss the collection below. For those of you who don’t want to replace your current kitchen island, there are even tips on how to update and accessorize what you have to make it more farmhouse chic.

When it comes to farmhouse kitchen islands—and the collection below—there is something for everyone!

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Wood Planked Farmhouse Kitchen Island

Photo: a_bit_of_rustic_and_vintage

When looking to add farmhouse flair to a space, wood is a go-to material—and that certainly includes kitchen islands. The wood planking adds texture and earthy touch to this bright kitchen, while the white finish ensures it doesn’t clash with the color scheme. The neutral whitewashed wood finish perfectly complements the light and airy color scheme that the rest of the kitchen displays.

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Classic White Shiplap Kitchen Island

Photo: lifeamongthecedars

While a shiplap kitchen island alone can be captivating, this kitchen kicks the allure up a notch by using ornate corner brackets and a small contrasting barndoor on the side. Altogether, these embellishments give the island a one-of-a-kind feel that makes this kitchen all the more wow-worthy. Renting but want to update your island? Consider applying removable shiplap paneling or wallpaper to the sides.

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Ornate Wood Corner Brackets

Photo: ourrusticparadise

A couple of corner brackets added to an island is a great way to make it feel like a farmhouse piece. To find authentic vintage brackets, shop antique markets or on sites like eBay and Etsy.

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A Fine Pair of Legs

Photo: my100yearoldhome

Don’t underestimate what a great pair of legs can do for an island! Repurpose a pair from an old table or have some custom-made for a truly unique look.

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Transitional Farmhouse Kitchen Island

Photo: thegatewayhome

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Farmhouse Kitchen Island with X Brace

Photo: greeneacresfarmhouse

To give an existing island a farmhouse makeover, try refinishing the sides with wood planks topped with an X brace. An X brace is commonly found on barn doors, so most people instantly associate it with farmhouse style!

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Elegant White Farmhouse Kitchen

Photo: greeneacresfarmhouse

The X brace on this fresh kitchen island undoubtedly gives it a farmhouse edge, but the elements it is surrounded with play an equally important role. In particular, the weathered wood chairs add warmth to the island area, while the spray-painted black pendants add a metal element that provides contrast.

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Large Navy Kitchen Island

Photo: country_dog_homes

This oversized island is a big presence in this kitchen, so balancing it with airier elements is essential. The open wire pendant lights were wonderful choices—they let the line-of-sight flow through while playing off the farmhouse vibe. Glass pendant lights would have also worked well here.

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Wood Farmhouse Island with White Countertop

Photo: bloom_jennybrooks

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Gray Kitchen Island

Photo: pink_peppermint_design

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A Calming Aesthetic

Photo: newbuild_newlyweds

A soft gray kitchen island is excellent for creating a kitchen that feels tranquil. This one uses shiplap for a contemporary farmhouse look.

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Pendant Lights for Farmhouse Kitchen Island

Photo: followthelighthome

The lights you choose for over your island can make all the difference in how the area feels. For instance, these gold metal pendant lights add extra glamour to this cottage kitchen island.

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Polished Chrome Island Topper

Photo: jenbryantdesign

Polished chrome bell pendants have a refined industrial look. Here, they also highlight the gray tones in the island’s countertop.

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Vibrant Vintage Vibes

Photo: brownies_forever_farmhouse

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Hanging Pot Rack Above Island

Photo: shiplapandshells

You can also shake things up by using hanging pots and a pan rack above an island. It adds extra storage and keeps pots and pans at the ready. Additionally, putting copper or cast iron cookware on display can help play up the farmhouse feel of a kitchen.

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Reclaimed Wood Kitchen Island

Photo: thedayplantation

Incorporating reclaimed or weathered wood into your kitchen island design can give it a rustic edge. Above, a few rough beams frame the island, adding texture and depth to the design.

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Old Made New

Photo: nissalynninteriors

One of the best and most unique farmhouse kitchen island ideas I’ve come across is repurposed antique furniture. This includes reusing vintage dressers, desks, and card catalogs. As you can see above—and in the next few examples—they create kitchen islands that are one-of-a-kind and absolutely captivating.

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Salvaged Farmhouse Island

Photo: our1917farmhouse

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European Galley Kitchen with Drawers Galore

Photo: robyns_frenchnest

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Small Farmhouse Island

Photo: hipandhumblestyle

The wheels on this miniature stunner not only make it easy to move around the kitchen, but it is perfect to wheel around to serve guests appetizers or use as an after supper coffee bar.

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Integrating Antiques

Photo: thetedescofarm

If antique furniture isn’t an option, you can still add some vintage style to your island with accessories. Consider hanging some vintage pots and pans, displaying a few antiques above the cabinets, or repurposing an antique vessel into a vase.

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Kitchen Island with Wood Countertops

Photo: 1900stonefarmhouse

A wood countertop is another option that you may want to consider for a farmhouse kitchen. As you can see, they not only add a ton of warmth and character but they can be stained any color.

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Beautiful Butcher Block

Photo: hearts_at_claremont

Choosing an island with a countertop that differs from the rest of your kitchen can help you create a focal point. However, remember that the countertop still needs to match some elements, or it will look disjointed from the rest of the design. Here we see the wood repeated in areas like the stools, vinyl flooring, and shelving.

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Vintage Cottage Style

Photo: paintedrootshome

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White Oak, Marble & Brass

Photo: theryanhaus_

White oak cabinetry topped with a sleek white countertop is a winning combo for this kitchen. While the white countertop adds a layer of elegance to the kitchen, the wood cabinetry brings a natural touch to the space while providing a ton of storage. The vintage-style pendant lights are also worth a mention here as they add a metallic element that creates extra intrigue while tying in the sink hardware.

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Modern Farmhouse Kitchen Island

Photo: bridgewaydesigns

Sometimes a handful of strategically placed wood elements are all it takes to elevate a farmhouse kitchen! Minimal wood drawers on the island and wood ceiling beams undoubtedly take this modern kitchen to the next level for both style and coziness.

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Island with Wood Paneling

Photo: sandramorganliving

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Modern Farmhouse Kitchen Island with Wood Accents

Photo: the_refinedfarmhouse

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A Touch of Wood

Photo: hamptonstyle_countryhome

If you don’t want to change your kitchen island, you can still make it feel more akin to farmhouse style by using wood accessories. Think cutting boards, trays, and utensils—in my opinion, the best accessories are also functional!

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White & Wood Coastal Kitchen

Photo: houseofmurphy

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Cozy Cottage Kitchen Island Decor

Photo: homehydrangea

Beyond using wood, you can also add extra farmhouse style to an existing island with some greenery. Try a farmhouse vase full of fresh flowers or a potted plant.

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A Green Christmas

Photo: edbrickfauxfarmhouse

Additionally, you can decorate a farmhouse kitchen island for the holidays with boughs of holly and other greenery in the form of garland and wreaths. It looks fresh and minimal, aligning with a modern farmhouse aesthetic.

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Farmhouse Kitchen Island Baskets

Photo: lizmariegalvan

Woven baskets are a year-round accessory that works well with farmhouse kitchen islands. They are a cottage classic full of texture that can add some hidden storage to open shelving. Plus, they come in a vast assortment of shapes and sizes. For example, these cylindrical baskets make great use of the bottom island shelf. They’re great for stashing away extra kitchen linens or collecting dirty dishtowels.

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Mixing & Matching Finishes

Photo: jodie.thedesigntwins

In this chic cottage kitchen, I particularly love the mix of matte elements (cabinets, wood beams, baskets) and shiny finishes (glass pendant lights, polished countertops, glass tile). It takes the contrast to the next level. I also spy two smaller baskets tucked under the island, which are great to keep everything from utensils to a stash of printed recipes in reach.

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Classic Coastal Cottage Vibe

Photo: delightedwiththedetails

No room for woven baskets? Try tucking a few woven farmhouse barstools under your island or peninsula. In this example, the brown hue effortlessly ties into the kitchen thanks to the planked rangehood, which offers a rustic touch to the space.

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Fresh Blue Farmhouse Island

Photo: greybirchdesigns

An easy way to cultivate a coastal feel in a kitchen is to use a blue island. The soft blue used here offers a pop of color, along with a calm aesthetic. I love the subtle details like the planking and the metal barstools that meld with the stainless-steel appliances.

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A Whisper of Blue

Photo: cutertudor

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White and Blue Kitchen

Photo: jane_athome

For a playful feel and a bold look, consider using a darker blue island. This eye-catching island paint color is Distance by Sherwin Williams.

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Green Farmhouse Kitchen Island

Photo: simplyminedesigns

Green is another color that works well on a farmhouse island. A medium shade, like shown above, feels fresh and earthy, while brighter tones like lime green are youthful and energetic. Want to make a green island look elegant? Try emerald green cabinets paired with white or black countertops.

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Bringing Nature Indoors

Photo: ourperfectingmanor

Pairing green accents with wood elements can help bring the look of nature into your kitchen and home. It is one of the easiest ways to embrace farmhouse style.

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Bright Cottage Style Kitchen

Photo: jodie.thedesigntwins

Don’t want to commit to painting your kitchen island a bold color? Try painting wooden barstools instead. I can’t get enough of how this kitchen uses vintage green glassware to spread the vibrant shade throughout the space. It is eclectic and fun, without looking cluttery or overdone.

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Black Kitchen Island

Photo: pink_peppermint_design

Black and white is a classic duo that never goes out of style! This kitchen uses a bold black kitchen island to add dynamic contrast to the space. Gold accents make it feel all the more luxurious, while plants and wood offer some nature-inspired goodness.

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French Farmhouse Kitchen Island

Photo: robynssouthernnest

For a kitchen island that packs a punch of contrast but doesn’t look bulky, one with an open black metal frame is an excellent option. Especially when you top it with a gorgeous chandelier as this kitchen did!

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Elegant Black & White Kitchen

Photo: tuxedofarmhouse

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Playing with Shapes

Photo: velveteenandgrace

When embracing a neutral color scheme with minimal contrast, try creating intrigue with unusual shapes, as this kitchen did. The unique shape of this island takes the design to a whole new level!

Zakhar Ivanisov

Meet Zakhar Ivanisov, a Seattle-based entrepreneur and design enthusiast at the helm of Soul & Lane. With a heart full of passion, Zakhar blends his business acumen and a keen eye for aesthetics to create spaces that are as inviting as they are stylish. His venture into the world of home decor and organization reflects a unique fusion of entrepreneurial spirit and a genuine love for transforming living spaces.

21 Gray Tile and Grout Color Combinations You Can’t Resist

It’s no secret that gray is my color of choice when redecorating rooms in my home. The shade is peaceful and neutral and pairs well with any and all accents I may choose. It’s the perfect backdrop to accompany rotating decorations and accessories that are much easier to change than repainting every few years. And I’m all about finding stylish solutions that can go the distance!

My love of gray also extends to bathroom and kitchen tile selections. Finding the best grout color can be tricky, especially when there are so many options! I love darker grout with gray tile to make a contemporary statement, but I also enjoy the look of white grout and light gray for a farmhouse or country aesthetic. If you need a few ideas to help you get started, you’ll enjoy this selection of gray tile and grout color combinations we’ve gathered below.

November 29, 2024 No Comments

Drop-In Bathtub Ideas in Creative Locations

Bathroom

26 Extraordinary Drop-in Bathtub Ideas for the Perfect Soak

Bathtime can be fun again with drop-in bathtub ideas that you can’t take your eyes off. Because drop-in tubs aren’t known for their captivating style, it is all about the base, location, and accessories that you choose to accompany them.
Alcove tubs, a versatile choice that suits bathrooms of any size, can be elevated with a touch of creativity. Enhance these tubs with a distinctive tile backsplash to infuse them with character. The corners provide ample space for arranging small accessories, candles, or bath bubbles. And don’t forget a chic bath caddy, a small addition that enhances relaxation while maintaining a spa-like ambiance in your bathroom.
In larger bathrooms where the tub is central, we suggest creating a tiled frame to hide the basic tub design. This will allow you to prioritize luxury and open the door to endless accessory combinations. Our gallery below is waiting to showcase some extraordinary drop-in bathtub ideas you won’t want to miss!

November 15, 2024 No Comments

Bathroom

24 Stylish Tips for Mixing Metal Finishes in the Bathroom

You can tell a true home décor lover by the way they mix metal finishes in a bathroom design. While bathrooms are not what you typically imagine as the most luxurious room in a home, you will be shocked by the small details you can add to make these spaces more glamorous.
Simplify any bathroom refresh by swapping out old, tired vanity hardware for some new, sparkling adornments. While you may want to stick with one metallic finish like gold, brass, chrome, nickel, or copper for the actual vanity hardware, you can always switch it up with a different faucet, lighting, or vanity mirror. After all, who could choose just one of these glimmering elements when there are so many options?
Give in to your natural love for shiny things and finish your design by mixing metal finishes in a bathroom. There are many examples in our gallery below just waiting to capture your attention!

November 1, 2024 No Comments

45 Farmhouse Kitchen Island Ideas to Update the Heart of Your Home

01 of 45

Wood Planked Farmhouse Kitchen Island

Photo: a_bit_of_rustic_and_vintage

02 of 45

Classic White Shiplap Kitchen Island

Photo: lifeamongthecedars

03 of 45

Ornate Wood Corner Brackets

Photo: ourrusticparadise

04 of 45

A Fine Pair of Legs

Photo: my100yearoldhome

05 of 45

Transitional Farmhouse Kitchen Island

Photo: thegatewayhome

06 of 45

Farmhouse Kitchen Island with X Brace

Photo: greeneacresfarmhouse

07 of 45

Elegant White Farmhouse Kitchen

Photo: greeneacresfarmhouse

08 of 45

Large Navy Kitchen Island

Photo: country_dog_homes

09 of 45

Wood Farmhouse Island with White Countertop

Photo: bloom_jennybrooks

10 of 45

Gray Kitchen Island

Photo: pink_peppermint_design

11 of 45

A Calming Aesthetic

Photo: newbuild_newlyweds

12 of 45

Pendant Lights for Farmhouse Kitchen Island

Photo: followthelighthome

13 of 45

Polished Chrome Island Topper

Photo: jenbryantdesign

14 of 45

Vibrant Vintage Vibes

Photo: brownies_forever_farmhouse

15 of 45

Hanging Pot Rack Above Island

Photo: shiplapandshells

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Reclaimed Wood Kitchen Island

Photo: thedayplantation

17 of 45

Old Made New

Photo: nissalynninteriors

18 of 45

Salvaged Farmhouse Island

Photo: our1917farmhouse

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European Galley Kitchen with Drawers Galore

Photo: robyns_frenchnest

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Small Farmhouse Island

Photo: hipandhumblestyle

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Integrating Antiques

Photo: thetedescofarm

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Kitchen Island with Wood Countertops

Photo: 1900stonefarmhouse

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Beautiful Butcher Block

Photo: hearts_at_claremont

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Vintage Cottage Style

Photo: paintedrootshome

25 of 45

White Oak, Marble & Brass

Photo: theryanhaus_

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Modern Farmhouse Kitchen Island

Photo: bridgewaydesigns

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