Table of Contents
- What is a Kitchen Island?
- What Appliances Do I Need?
- 5 Design Tips for Your Kitchen Island in 2026
- Our Favorite Island-Friendly Appliances:
- ZLINE Convertible Vent Island Mount Range Hood in Stainless Steel (KE2i)
- VICTORY Sunset 36 in. 600 CFM Flush Ceiling Mount Range Hood With Stainless Steel, White, and Black Color Options
- ZLINE 36 in. Paramount Gas Rangetop with 6 Burner DuoPro™ Cooktop in Stainless Steel (PSRT36)
- Empava 30 in. 4 Burner Induction Cooktop (IDC30)
- ZLINE Autograph Edition 24 in. Touchstone 168 Can Outdoor-Rated Dual Refrigerator Drawer with Stainless Steel Doors and Champagne Bronze Handles (RDSOZ-ST-24-CB)
- ZLINE 33 in. Moritz Farmhouse Apron Mount Single Bowl Kitchen Sink with Bottom Grid and Accessories with Color Options (SLSAP-33)
- ZLINE Autograph Edition 30 in. 1.2 cu. ft. Built-In Microwave Drawer in Stainless Steel with Matte Black Accents (MWDZ-30-MB)
- FAQs
What is a Kitchen Island?
A kitchen island is freestanding cabinetry that is typically located at the center of a kitchen. The main design concept behind a kitchen island is to provide additional workspace and storage, and more room for those to gather around! Every kitchen island can be customized to fit a variety of styles and needs, with options to include built-in appliances, seating areas, and decorative features. Make your kitchen island the focal point and have it serve as a practical and stylish addition to your home.
What Appliances Do I Need?
A kitchen island is a versatile and functional addition to any kitchen, and choosing the right appliances to include can make it even more useful. Popular appliances to incorporate into a kitchen island include:
Cooktop - For those of you who may be looking for maximum food preparation space, you should consider moving your cooktop to the island! This will give you ample space surrounding your cooktop for all your food prep needs!
Range Hood - If you decide to move your cooktop to the island, you will need to be on the search for an island mount range hood! It’s important to remove that smoke and odor wherever your cooktop may be placed!
Microwave Drawer - Enjoy the waist-height convenience of a microwave drawer! For optimized functionality, think about placing your microwave drawer near your refrigerator or range so you can heat everything at once and slide it across the island!
Sink - If you have minimal windows edging your kitchen, a popular choice is to move your sink to the island so you can face the rest of your home! This is an especially popular choice for those who enjoy entertaining, as you can more easily face your guests!
Dishwasher - If you decide to move your sink to the island, we always recommend having your dishwasher follow and sit on the right or left of the sink! This will make it far easier to transfer your dishes!
Wine Cooler or Beverage Fridge - Enjoy easy access to wine if a cooler is placed inside your island! Eliminate the chance of getting in the cook's way if the cooler is installed on the seating side.
Ultimately, the appliances you choose for your kitchen island will vary depending on your entertaining needs, and we always recommend taking into account your kitchen layout and size.
Explore Island Mount Range Hoods
5 Design Tips for Your Kitchen Island in 2026
Size and Placement: For optimal functionality, it’s important to consider the size of your kitchen island and maintain proportions so you can achieve both the best style and maximize your space. With kitchen islands, you are also not restricted to the traditional rectangular shape; you can decide from L-shaped, square, curved-edge, irregular shape, or circular designs–the list is endless with the design!
Lighting: Work lighting designs into your plan. Lighting is just as important as the other design elements, as you want to achieve optimal functionality while maintaining your aesthetics. Kitchen islands tend to be a place for many to prepare food, so it’s important to remember this when designing your kitchen.
Seating and Storage: For those of you who enjoy hosting dinners, it’s important to consider a design that includes storage and plenty of seating surrounding. It’s important to optimize your island space with multiple drawers or shelves.
Appliances: Clear the room of your surrounding counters or cabinets and consider placing your appliances on the island. For example, a range top with an island mount range hood would be a great option to place in your island. Eliminate both counter and wall space! When including appliances in your kitchen island, it's important to add electrical outlets to accommodate them all and others!
Colors and Materials: Make your kitchen island the centerpiece! Kitchen islands are the perfect opportunity to include a pop of color in your kitchen or use a different material that will stand out from the rest of your cabinetry.
Our Favorite Island-Friendly Appliances:
ZLINE Convertible Vent Island Mount Range Hood in Stainless Steel (KE2i)
The ZLINE Convertible Vent Island Mount Range Hood is the superhero your kitchen island deserves! Enjoy the powerful motor and sleek stainless steel design, leaving your kitchen smoke and odor-free! With the convertible design, you can decide whether to have a ducted or ductless venting system.
ZLINE Convertible Vent Island Mount Range Hood in Stainless Steel (KE2i)
$749.99
The ZLINE KE2i is a professional island mount stainless steel hood designed to be both elegant and powerful, featuring the industry's only lifetime warranty motor. This hood is made from 430-grade stainless steel and is a ZLINE classic. Its durable… Read More
VICTORY Sunset 36 in. 600 CFM Flush Ceiling Mount Range Hood With Stainless Steel, White, and Black Color Options
Transform your kitchen into a sleek and stylish culinary paradise with the Faber Cylindra Isola Island Mount Range Hood. This stunning range hood features a cylindrical design that will elevate your kitchen island. The powerful motor ensures that all the smoke and odor from your kitchen will be efficiently removed, leaving you with a clean, fresh smell!
VICTORY Sunset 36 in. 600 CFM Flush Ceiling Mount Range Hood With Stainless Steel, White, and Black Color Options
$1,724.25
$2,299.00
Introducing our innovative Flush Ceiling Range Hood, the Victory Sunset. Meticulously designed to seamlessly integrate into your open-concept kitchens while delivering unparalleled performance and aesthetic elegance. Made in Canada with precision engineering, this range hood is designed to be installed… Read More
ZLINE 36 in. Paramount Gas Rangetop with 6 Burner DuoPro™ Cooktop in Stainless Steel (PSRT36)
The ZLINE 36 in. Paramount Gas Rangetop is the perfect addition to any kitchen island! For those of you who are looking to cook up a storm, enjoy the 6 powerful DuoPro™ gas burners and the easy-to-use knobs and solid porcelain cooktop, making cleaning up a breeze!
ZLINE 36 in. Paramount Gas Rangetop with 6 Burner DuoPro™ Cooktop in Stainless Steel (PSRT36)
$3,199.99
Luxury isn’t meant to be left desired—it’s meant to be attainable. The ZLINE 36 in. Paramount Gas Rangetop with 6 Burner DuoPro™ Cooktop in Stainless Steel (PSRT36) features a high-powered gas cooktop with 6 hand-crafted Italian dual-ring brass burners and… Read More
Empava 30 in. 4 Burner Induction Cooktop (IDC30)
The Empava 30 in. Induction Cooktop uses induction technology to heat up your delicious meals so quickly and efficiently. With the 30 in. model, you have 4 burners, which gives you plenty of space to prepare multiple dishes at once. Have peace of mind knowing the cooktop stays cool to the touch, so you don’t have to worry about any accidental burns.
Empava 30 in. 4 Burner Induction Cooktop (IDC30)
$549.99
This electric induction cooktop by Empava Appliances Inc. is the real secret weapon behind many great meals. Let this electric-operated appliance give you the utmost in cooking flexibility and help you cook like a professional chef in your own home.… Read More
ZLINE Autograph Edition 24 in. Touchstone 168 Can Outdoor-Rated Dual Refrigerator Drawer with Stainless Steel Doors and Champagne Bronze Handles (RDSOZ-ST-24-CB)
The ZLINE Touchstone line of undercounter refrigeration is a perfect addition to your kitchen island design. Featuring wine coolers, beverage fridges, refrigerator drawers, and ice makers, the Touchstone line makes entertaining effortless, leaving you to just enjoy!
ZLINE Autograph Edition 24 in. Touchstone 168 Can Outdoor-Rated Dual Refrigerator Drawer with Stainless Steel Doors and Champagne Bronze Handles (RDSOZ-ST-24-CB)
$2,804.99
$3,299.99
Luxury isn’t meant to be desired - it’s meant to be attainable. The ZLINE Autograph Edition 24 in. Touchstone 168 Can Outdoor-Rated Dual Refrigerator Drawer with Stainless Steel Doors and Champagne Bronze Handles (RDSOZ-ST-24-CB) features state-of-the-art cooling technology, dual smooth… Read More
ZLINE 33 in. Moritz Farmhouse Apron Mount Single Bowl Kitchen Sink with Bottom Grid and Accessories with Color Options (SLSAP-33)
The ZLINE 33 in. Moritz Farmhouse Apron Mount Single Bowl Kitchen Sink is the ultimate combination of style and functionality. This sink is perfect for a kitchen island, as it’s durable in construction, yet has a sleek design. This sink is even equipped with a bottom grid and various accessories (a solid birch cutting board, a sliding colander, and a basket strainer). Don’t settle for an ordinary sink; upgrade to the ZLINE 33 in. Moritz Farmhouse Apron Mount Single Bowl Kitchen Sink.
ZLINE 33 in. Moritz Farmhouse Apron Mount Single Bowl Kitchen Sink with Bottom Grid and Accessories with Color Options (SLSAP-33)
$701.99
$779.99
Luxury isn’t meant to be left desired—it’s meant to be attainable. The ZLINE 33 in. Moritz Farmhouse Apron Mount Single Bowl Kitchen Sink with Bottom Grid and Accessories with Color Options (SLSAP-33) provides a superior cleaning experience by pairing unmatched… Read More
ZLINE Autograph Edition 30 in. 1.2 cu. ft. Built-In Microwave Drawer in Stainless Steel with Matte Black Accents (MWDZ-30-MB)
The ZLINE Autograph Edition 30 in. Built-In Microwave Drawer is the perfect blend of form and function. With the sleek stainless steel finish and the option between champagne bronze, gold, or matte black accents, this microwave drawer will be sure to elevate your kitchen design. Enjoy the convenience of placing this appliance at waist height, making it a space-saving solution and less of a focal point.
ZLINE Autograph Edition 30 in. 1.2 cu. ft. Built-In Microwave Drawer in Stainless Steel with Matte Black Accents (MWDZ-30-MB)
$1,519.99
$1,899.99
Luxury isn’t meant to be desired - it’s meant to be attainable. Designed in Lake Tahoe, USA, the ZLINE Autograph Edition 30 in. 1.2 cu. ft. Built-in microwave Drawer in Stainless Steel with Matte Black Accents (MWDZ-30-MB) provides a professional… Read More
If you have any further questions regarding appliances and compatibility with your kitchen island designs, you can give us a call at 1 (866) 528-0571 or book a consultation with one of our knowledgeable representatives here!
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FAQs
What is a kitchen island?
A kitchen island is a freestanding cabinetry unit typically placed in the center of a kitchen. It provides additional workspace, storage, and seating, and often serves as a focal point for cooking, entertaining, and everyday gathering.
Do all kitchens need a kitchen island?
No. A kitchen island works best in kitchens with enough floor space to allow for proper clearance around all sides. Smaller kitchens may benefit more from a peninsula or compact island design.
What appliances can be installed in a kitchen island?
Common island appliances include cooktops, rangetops, island mount range hoods, microwave drawers, sinks, dishwashers, wine coolers, beverage fridges, refrigerator drawers, and ice makers. The right combination depends on your cooking habits, layout, and entertaining needs.
Can a cooktop be placed on a kitchen island?
Yes. Placing a cooktop on the island is popular because it frees up wall space and creates more surrounding prep area. This setup requires proper ventilation, typically with an island mount or ceiling mount range hood.
Do I need a range hood if my cooktop is on the island?
Yes. Any cooktop, regardless of location, needs proper ventilation. Island-mounted cooktops require an island mount or ceiling mount range hood to effectively remove smoke, grease, and odors.
Is a sink on a kitchen island a good idea?
A sink is a popular island feature, especially for homeowners who entertain. It allows you to face guests while prepping or cleaning and works well when paired with a nearby dishwasher for convenience.
Where should a dishwasher be placed if the sink is on the island?
The dishwasher should be installed directly next to the sink, either on the left or right side. This placement makes loading and unloading dishes easier and more efficient.
Are microwave drawers better than traditional microwaves for islands?
Yes. Microwave drawers are ideal for kitchen islands because they install at waist height, save counter space, and reduce visual clutter while improving accessibility.
Can refrigeration be added to a kitchen island?
Absolutely. Wine coolers, beverage fridges, refrigerator drawers, and ice makers are excellent island additions. They improve entertaining flow and keep guests out of the main cooking zone.
How big should a kitchen island be?
Island size depends on the kitchen layout. There should be enough clearance for walkways, seating, and appliance doors. Proper proportions ensure the island enhances functionality without overwhelming the space.
What lighting works best over a kitchen island?
Task lighting is essential. Pendant lights are the most common choice, providing both functional illumination and visual interest. The number and size of fixtures should match the island’s scale.
How much seating can a kitchen island support?
Seating depends on island length and overhang depth. Islands designed for entertaining often include bar or counter-height seating on one or more sides, with adequate legroom and spacing.
Should a kitchen island match the rest of the cabinetry?
Not necessarily. Many homeowners use the island to introduce contrast through a different color, material, or finish. This helps the island stand out as a design centerpiece.
What materials are best for kitchen islands?
Popular options include painted or stained wood cabinetry, natural stone or quartz countertops, and mixed materials. The island is a great place to showcase bold finishes or textures.
Are electrical outlets required in kitchen islands?
Yes. Electrical outlets are typically required by code and are essential if the island includes appliances or will be used for small countertop devices.
Can a kitchen island increase home value?
Yes. A well-designed kitchen island adds functionality, storage, and visual appeal, which can increase a home’s resale value and overall desirability.
How do I choose the right appliances for my kitchen island?
Consider how you cook and entertain, the size of your kitchen, and traffic flow. Appliances should enhance convenience without overcrowding the island or disrupting movement.
Is professional planning recommended for kitchen island design?
Yes. Because islands often include plumbing, electrical, ventilation, and appliances, professional guidance helps ensure proper layout, code compliance, and long-term usability.
