Mid-century modern furniture enthusiasts will cite the tall modular wall units crafted in teak and other sought-after woods of the era by the likes of George Nelson and Finn Juhl. In the mid-19th century, cabinetmakers would mimic styles originating in the Louis XIV, Louis XV and Louis XVI eras for their dressers, bookshelves and other structures, and, later, simpler, streamlined wood designs allowed these “case pieces” or “case goods” - any furnishing that is unupholstered and has some semblance of a storage component - to blend into the background of any interior. Which design is your favorite? Schedule an appointment today to meet with our kitchen design specialist to learn more about kitchen island designs offered by Bray & Scarff.Of all the antique and vintage case pieces and storage cabinets that have become popular in modern interiors over the years, dressers, credenzas and cabinets have long been home staples, perfect for routine storage or protection of personal items. The waterfall look doesn’t pair perfectly with every kitchen design and is best suited for contemporary and modern kitchens. The waterfall countertop is more expensive than the standard design not only because it requires more material but requires a certain amount of precision to seamlessly match veining and blend the edges where two slabs meet.

It is important to note that most waterfall designs are stone, including marble, granite, and quartz - not wood or laminate. The edging is typically a flat-edge design to showcase the contemporary look. These islands provide a seamless, custom look with the countertops flowing over the edge just like a waterfall. Waterfall countertops are no doubt a show-stopper. Since you can choose any material, style and color, the standard island countertop is the most common design for today’s kitchen. It is also less costly since it is easier to install. Since countertops typically cost more than the wooden side of a cabinet, this option is far less expensive than the waterfall design. For the standard island, you can choose any material for the countertops, including butcher block, granite, engineered quartz and solid surfaces. The sides of the lower cabinets are typically painted to either seamlessly match or contrast with the perimeter cabinets.

The edging can be any design, from flat-edge to beveled to cove-ogee. The common kitchen island features the standard design: a rectangular countertop slab that rests on cabinets and stops at the edge. Learn more about both designs to help you choose which one is best for you. The standard design is a single horizontal surface that ends at the edge of the island whereas a waterfall design drops vertically down the sides which creates a continuous flow to the floor. When selecting your countertop for your kitchen island, you can choose the standard design or a waterfall design. You can contrast kitchen island cabinet colors with your perimeter cabinets to break up overly matchy colors or choose a different countertop material to add some texture. They also allow you the opportunity to add depth and interest to your otherwise conventional kitchen. For example, they can help separate large kitchens from dining areas while maintaining the open concept. Kitchen islands can also add a design element to your kitchen.

They provide expanded storage, additional seating, a place to house an extra appliance, and even the opportunity for a second sink. It’s no wonder kitchen islands have grown in popularity over the years and have become the standard for today’s kitchen. Standard Island Posted on August 18th, 2021

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