The Unconventional Island Shape That Can Give A Kitchen Unique Character

The concept of a kitchen island has been around for centuries, when tables in castle kitchens provided extra workspace and a place for kitchen staff to socialize as they prepared meals for hundreds of people. They gained true popularity in single-family homes when chef Julia Child rose to fame, cooking and chatting with the camera from behind her own kitchen island. Since then, kitchen islands have become a focal point in many homes. Not only do they provide extra work and storage space, they provide a place for family and friends to gather in the kitchen — the heart of the home. To that end, there's one unconventional island shape that's taking center stage for its uniqueness and functionality: The piano-shaped kitchen island.

Kitchen islands come in all sizes, and we even have some DIY ideas to add storage and counter space to your cooking haven. But until the last few years, kitchen islands have typically been built in a square or rectangular fashion. Recently, though, the trend in kitchens has been a softening of the edges, introducing curves and a warmer, more inviting place to gather and socialize with the cook. The newest trend takes that a step further and turns the kitchen island into a focal point and comfortable hangout. Inspired by the grands that were common in the drawing rooms of old, the piano-shaped kitchen island is rounded at the corners and more triangular in shape. Guests and family can more easily talk to each other, and it improves traffic flow around the kitchen.

It seems we should all be adopting this functional celebrity kitchen island trend for a variety of reasons. For example, Serena Williams' statement island features an angular take on the piano island, resembling a low piano attached to a rectangular slab of white granite. Her island offers plenty of space for comfortable, face-to-face dining with room to spread out. For busier kitchens, a more rounded design may offer an element of safety as well as contemporary style. If you're planning to install one, explore these stunning ways homeowners are bringing curves into their kitchens. Essentially, rounded corners create a warmer, softer feel to the room.

There are a few things to consider if you decide to install or replace your island. Consider the shape of your kitchen — you don't want to install a large island that could overwhelm your space. You also need to have enough clearance around the island to accommodate working and seating. However, a piano-shaped island can add tons of storage and definition to an open kitchen or improve maneuverability around a larger one. Also, think about how you want to interact with friends and family around it, and install appliances or sinks accordingly. A wine fridge, for instance, might entice guests to stay and visit a while longer.