11 Kitchen Island Décor Ideas That Add Style and Elegance to Your Cooking Space

Branching Out

"Islands need height to make them interesting," says interior designer Laura Medicus. “One easy way to get some drama is a vase with tall branches. Go bigger than you think to help fill up the vertical space!”

This sculptural approach brings life to your island, while drawing the eye upward and adding texture.

Put It On a Pedestal

“I almost always use some kind of pedestal or footed bowl,” says designer Bradie Fisher. “It gives things a little lift and makes everyday items feel more intentional.”

Whether topped with croissants or citrus, a pedestal elevates form and function—quite literally.

Ginger Jar Genius

“One of my favorite décor items on an island are ginger jars,” says Leigh Ann Raines, creative director and president of Chic By Design. “They work great as a floral container or as a cookie jar.”

A nod to history and craftsmanship, these ornamental ceramics bring character to the kitchen while also offering practical storage.

Artful Contrasat

In this Irvington, New York kitchen by interior design firm White Arrow, earthy wood tones and handmade bowls pop against sleek white stone. Mixing these organic materials with crisp contemporary finishes brings warmth, dimension, and balance to the space.

Stoneware Story

“You can’t go wrong styling with items that are both beautiful and functional,” says Jacqueline Goncalves, principal and founder of Moksa Studio. “An oversized stoneware or wooden dough bowl filled with fresh fruit adds a sculptural element… Beautiful cutting boards, a unique canister, or a soap pump can be useful and visually appealing.”

In this particular example, an elegant stoneware bowl perfectly ties a neutral kitchen together.

Veg Out

In this project by interior designer Paloma Contreras, colorful seasonal vegetables take center stage. A savory arrangement of leafy produce not only introduces color and form but also celebrates the artistry of everyday ingredients.

Curated Clusters

“A group of coordinating or matching items, like an urn or vase with flowers and a plate, creates a polished look,” says designer Robbie Maynard. “Include a bowl for fruit and vegetables… use all green fruit, or a specific color scheme.”

The island can also be a space to infuse seasonal color into an otherwise neutral kitchen, she says.

Vessel Vision

“I always love a vase with either fresh or dried flowers or branches. It’s an easy way to provide height and a visual focus in the kitchen," says Leigh Jendrusina, owner and principal designer of Salthouse Collective. "I usually pair a vase with a smaller plant, candle, or a pretty bowl filled with fresh fruit."

The best part about these stylish vessels is that they can completely transform depending on what you put in them—or how you style them.

Tray Chic

“Corral everything on your island into a tray or basket,” says interior designer Melanie Bryant. “It adds an extra layer of texture and makes the whole arrangement feel more pulled together.”

A thoughtful grouping—like flowers, artichokes, and mint—feels curated, not cluttered, and can be easily moved when the island is in use.

Citrus, Simplified

“Here, we let the marble veining be the showstopper,” says Michelle Murphy, founder of interior design firm Demi Ryan.

The décor takes a more minimalistic approach, comprised of a low wooden bowl filled with citrus that complements the textures—rather than competing with them. A reminder that a simple gesture, well-placed, can have a big impact.

Floral Focus

A single orchid arrangement makes a dramatic, symmetrical statement in this serene kitchen by Alexandra Kaehler Design. Centered between two pendants, the sculptural florals offer a graceful focal point—no further additions needed.