Dreaming of having your own kitchen island? A freestanding design could be the aesthetically-pleasing and multi-functional solution you’ve been looking for.
With the chic farmhouse kitchen style rising in popularity, we’re also noticing freestanding islands, also known as chef’s or baker’s tables, making a comeback; and, we’re not alone. “Rather than kitchen islands, we’re seeing an uptake in baker’s tables – similar to a kitchen island, but on legs. This freestanding piece makes the island feel like a piece of furniture while still having all of the benefits of a usual island with deep drawers and a place to perch,” says Al Bruce, founder at Olive & Barr.
They feel right at home in a classic Shaker or country-chic kitchen, and apart from charming aesthetics, they provide a plethora of advantages, too. “A baker’s table, inspired by traditional farmhouse kitchens, is a practical and versatile addition to any kitchen,” says Tom Howley, creative design director at the eponymous kitchen company. “Its open, freestanding design creates a more flexible workflow, allowing for easy movement around the kitchen.”
A freestanding kitchen island is incredibly multi-functional, with many designs providing open shelving for displaying crockery and cookbooks, wine racks for your favourite bottles, built-in drawers for utensils, and hooks for tea towels. And, you, of course, gain much-needed extra worktop space. “With open shelving or drawers, it provides accessible storage for baking essentials, cookware, or display pieces, keeping everything within reach while maintaining a light, airy feel,” says Tom.
In terms of sizes and styles, you can go the bespoke route, which although comes with a higher price tag, it will allow you to tailor your design specifically to your lifestyle, cooking habits, and space.
Alternatively, these days, you can easily find ready-made units; just take the time choosing the one which suits both your kitchen style and size of the room. Do you love giving life to second-hand or older pieces of furniture? Why not go on the hunt for a chef’s table at vintage fairs, charity shops, and car boot sales.
To get your inspiration going, we’ve rounded up some of our favourite freestanding kitchen islands ideas, from big to small…
Freestanding kitchen islands: from big to small
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