7 Double Kitchen Island Ideas for Stylish Entertaining
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Sometimes, more really is more. Having one kitchen island works well for many homes, but if you have the space, why not add another? Two creates more space for preparing meals—you can even designate one of the islands as a breakfast bar, an area for gathering and enjoying hors d’oeuvres with friends, or even employ it as a space for an in-kitchen dinner party.
It’s a great idea, sure, but mapping out your kitchen to accommodate more than one island can feel daunting. Here, we sourced some inspiration from interior designers to help guide you—plus, a bit of helpful advice from these pros.
Alternate Heights
Venjhamin Reyes / Megan Gorelick Interiors
One of the best things about double kitchen islands is that they let you do more with your space. In this home, interior designer Megan Gorelick layered two islands together for clients who loved to entertain.
“We created one working island and one seating island,” she says. “The clients wanted to incorporate two different heights—bar and counter—to add some dimension and character on the seating island.”
She also used different materials for each: the counter-height one is quartzite, and the seating island is porcelain.
Mix Materials
Halkin Mason Photography / Interior Design by Marguerite Rodgers
Two islands mean you can really experiment with materials—so embrace the opportunity! In this space, Meg Rodgers of the interior design firm Marguerite Rodgers designed one island in walnut and the other in durable white stone. The materiality was informed by function.
“The main island is the hardworking heart of the kitchen with generous counter space,” she says. “The second island was conceived as a social hub, equally suited for casual meals, conversation, or cocktails.”
Let the Lighting Shine
Stephen Kent Johnson / Interior Design by Pembrooke & Ives
In this kitchen, interior design firm Pembrooke & Ives integrated two islands into a contemporary space. While it’s incredibly functional—it even has two sinks—the decorative elements are really the star of the show.
Overhead, vintage Austrian chandeliers create just the right amount of drama, and a striking marble backsplash brings the space to life.
Go Big
Venjhamin Reyes / Megan Gorelick Interiors
If you’re often hosting larger gatherings or if you have a big family, then adding a second island can be a great way to maximize your kitchen space.
“Our client loves making breakfast for his entire family, so we designed the working island to include a griddle so he can make pancakes galore for all who visit,” says Gorelick. “Knowing how big the family is, we wanted to get as much seating as possible here to supplement the dining table.”
Keep It Cohesive
Rebekkah Westover / Caitlin Creer Interiors
In this kitchen, interior designer Caitlin Creer effortlessly brings together a palette of natural woods, brass, and white stone. The islands—one larger seating area and one for meal prep—mirror this cohesive aesthetic.
“It gives you a great flow for entertaining, and lots of surface to use for both serving and prep,” she says. “We usually try to make sure to use hard-wearing counters on the back island.”
Make It Cozy
Jacqueline Marque Photography / Interior Design by Bishop Studio
Kitchens often run the risk of feeling monotone or sterile—kitchen islands provide a great canvas to warm it up a bit. In this space, Jennie Bishop of Bishop Studio designed a space “that feels as refined as it is functional.”
“We layered materials like honed marble, rich oak, and deep charcoal cabinetry to bring warmth and depth, while maintaining a timeless sense of balance,” she adds.
Make a Statement With Stone
Ali Budd
If you find a material that you really love, why not add it to both islands? In this kitchen by Ali Budd Interiors, the beautiful gray stone on each island seamlessly matches the black-and-white color palette.
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