Even if you’re blessed with miles of countertop space in your kitchen, everyone can benefit from an island. Whether it’s small and movable or has enough room for a range and some seating and island creates a focal point that creates more balance in the room. It gives you that bit of extra space for cooking, entertaining, and even doing homework. Even better? Outfitting that island with a natural stone top maximizes its beauty and can be a budget-friendly way to use real stone in your home. Let’s check out all the benefits this kitchen must-have can offer!
All About The Island
A kitchen island is a freestanding space, usually in the middle of the room, that is open on all sides. It can either be permanently affixed to the floor, or it can be freestanding and movable. The latter is great for small kitchens, as it can be moved out of the way or even into another room when space is at a premium. Both also offer tons of storage options, as many models come with different configurations of drawers and cabinets—whatever you need to get the most out of your room. Permanent islands are ideal for large or medium-sized kitchens, since they can double as a seating area or a hub for entertaining your friends. It’s perfect for setting out a buffet or acting as a make shift bar, and when the party is over the island can hold onto appliances, since it can be outfitted with electricity. Another great option for a permanent island is to use it to house a range or dishwasher. This helps free up traffic along the walls and can help give the cook more prep space.
Benefits of Adding Natural Stone to Your Kitchen Island
Creates a focal point
A natural stone countertop on your island instantly draws the eye. The unique textures and colors make it a stunning centerpiece in the room.Offers cost savings
Installing stone only on the island is usually much less expensive than outfitting all countertops with it, even if your island is large or movable.Perfect for marble lovers
Marble is high-maintenance and prone to staining, so it’s not ideal for every surface. Limiting it to your island gives you a dedicated space for baking and working with chocolate, while keeping the rest of your countertops practical and durable.Durable alternatives for heavy use
If your island is your main cooking station, granite is a better choice due to its strength and low maintenance. You can still include marble in a small section of the island for specialty tasks without sacrificing functionality.
Extra! Extra!
Of course, you don’t have to stop at just covering the top of your island with stone. If you really want to get fancy with a permanent island, you can continue the stone slab down the sides, or cover the sides with a contrasting veneer stone. Or, if you want to make your freestanding island something really special, consider giving it an onyx top. Although this stone is quite pricey and needs to be handled very gently, it can be a gorgeous piece to pull out for entertaining. This is especially true if you are able to backlight the countertop, as it will give the onyx a subtle glow that will really wow your friends!
Whether you’re looking to install a permanent island or prefer one that’s movable, this kitchen must-have gives you the extra space you need to cook, entertain, and even just hang out together as a family. With a bowl of popcorn and board game! Outfitting your island with natural stone is a cost-effective way to introduce this beautiful, one-of-a-kind material into your home, and it can create an outstanding focal piece in your kitchen that brings the whole room together. Feeling inspired? Check out our live inventory right here and start thinking about how one of these incredible slabs will look in your home!