We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs.

We’ve all heard that the kitchen is the heart of the home, but if you really think about it, it’s the kitchen island. Whether we rely on it for additional storage and seating or prep space, everything we do in this room revolves around it. In other words, it’s a major focal point—and it should look the part. 

Of the 2,000 homeowners recently surveyed by Houzz, 41 percent of those who are planning on, or in the midst of, upgrading their kitchen island said they’d go with a color that contrasts the rest of the cabinets in the room. Blue proved to be the most popular choice among respondents, and it’s even a designer-approved pick. Shea McGee has used Benjamin Moore’s Hale Navy and Blue Note (pictured, above) in the past to add some visual interest to an otherwise all-white space. 

Another way to make your island pop: Pick a contrasting countertop material. Medium-tone wood surfaces are the second most popular choice for those looking to switch things up (white is the number-one option; gray came in third place). Whether you mix up the cabinets and counters or just the latter, the small difference will make your space look all the more dynamic. 

Our Winter Renovation issue is here! Subscribe now to step inside Leanne Ford’s latest project—her own historic Pennsylvania home. Plus discover our new rules of reno.