Wood:
One way to lighten an island visually is to simply match its faces to the flooring material so the two blend together. Letting wood or laminate wrap around the island is unexpected but warm and inviting without being heavy.
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Color:
Looking to expand your palette but hesitant to make a big splash? Repainting just the island (or even only one side) adds a dash of drama without the effect of visually shrinking the space that can come from dark or vivid cabinetry.
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Furniture Styling:
Giving an island furniture-like details makes it feel even more like its own little hub of activity separate from the functional cabinets around it. Even an existing island can get an upgrade by putting legs or feet on the exterior.
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Wainscoting:
To soften a chunky island, consider classic wainscoting. It suits cottage-inspired traditional kitchens well, but as you can see here, it also works beautifully in transitional or contemporary kitchens by adding texture with a simple geometric sensibility.
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Molding:
Another way to achieve a furniture-like appearance is to embellish the island’s faces and corners with molding. This provides a sense of elegance that’s essential to transitional kitchens (one of the most sought-after styles). It’s a good long-term investment since the stately look will likely stay in demand.
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Island Cart:
This one is a bit of a cheat since you’ll have to replace your fixed island altogether, but if it’s beyond salvaging (or if you don’t have one to start with), subbing a free-standing cart lends a real chef’s-kitchen vibe and a more open look.
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LED Lighting:
Install LED lighting strips to the underside of the island counter, the base or both to bring a fun modern element and extra brightness to the whole space.
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Pet Bowls:
Pet food bowls in a white and gray nook within a custom kitchen island made easy and practical for the fur babies in your life.
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Hardware:
One last idea: Upgrade the hardware. A little gold-toned hardware will give your kitchen a new feel with no need for a hammer or paintbrush. To re-create this look, also consider using a few dummy drawer or door fronts to dress the back of your island.
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