Wish you had more kitchen storage? You’re not alone. Many kitchens, both in houses and rental apartments, are light on counter and storage space. But actually, this problem has a pretty easy solution! A kitchen island or countertop table will instantly grant you the space that you seek.
Today, we’re rounding up our favorite islands and counter tables. They’re fantastic for small apartments and other types of homes too! Since there are lots of price points available, we’ve split the list into items under $1,000 and over $1,000. Hope these links give you some ideas for your home.
Under $1,000
If cooking in your small kitchen stresses you, a kitchen island will change your life. Not bad for a few hundred bucks! As you might expect, the more expensive items on the next list will universally be of higher quality than these ones – you do indeed get what you pay for. These aren’t necessarily long-term investment pieces, but that’s okay! These are all extremely solid options for the price.
TORNVIKEN Kitchen Island from Ikea
Fresnay Kitchen Island from Laurel Foundry Modern Farmhouse
Lakeland Prep Table from Beachcrest Home
Stilt Two Top Counter Table from CB2
Belmont Mint Kitchen Island from Crate and Barrel
Clevr Rolling Kitchen Cart from Amazon
The Ikea option is SUPER popular in my own apartment building – the majority of units seem to have one! I also love the features of the Amazon option: the ability to roll it away is very convenient for small spaces, it has a towel rack and drawers, and the natural wood top is a built-in cutting board! Combined with the great reviews and unbeatable price, that would have to be my top pick.
Over $1,000
Next, we go to the pricier stuff. I do have to say that these are a huge step up in quality and style. They’re much more so an investment in furniture that you’ll want to take to your next place. Pleeease measure your kitchen, doorways, elevators, etc. to be sure that it’ll actually fit!
Dunbar Kitchen Island from CB2
Marble Top Island from CB2
Booker Kitchen Island from Room & Board
French Kitchen Island from Crate and Barrel
Upland Kitchen Island from Pottery Barn
Pratt Counter Table from Room & Board
I really love the look of the CB2 islands here. The Dunbar island is gorgeous, and we’ve used the Marble Top option from CB2 for a client with great results. It’s got such a beautifully clean and modern look. Still, my top pick here has to be the Pratt Counter Table – those color choices are so fun, and it’s really nice that you can get it with a narrow shelf to add seating!
Wrapping up
Does any space truly NEED a kitchen island? Not really. But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t buy one! If you find it difficult to cook or entertain in your kitchen today, one of these islands will add major functionality and convenience to your life. Most of us spend lots of time cooking and eating, which makes each of these islands a worthwhile upgrade.
A final note: please always keep in mind the style of your home/apartment while selecting an island. An industrial modern space with a french country kitchen island stuck in the middle is… unfortunate. Don’t ruin the look for convenience’s sake!
P.S.: We’ve got lots more apartment design tips and small space decoration ideas like these. Sign up for our newsletter to get our top suggestions every month.