Add Wow Factor for Pennies by Painting Your Kitchen Island
Is your kitchen looking a little dull and dated? Are you itching to update your space but don't have the budget for a full renovation? Painting your kitchen island a fresh new color is an easy, affordable way to transform the look of your kitchen almost instantly.
With a simple can of paint and a weekend of elbow grease, you can give your kitchen a modern, stylish update for very little money. The contrast of a painted island adds visual interest and dimension to turn a boring kitchen into a focal point. Keep reading to learn why painting your island is a genius kitchen refresh.
Why Should You Paint Your Kitchen Island?
Painting just your island instead of all your cabinetry is a strategic way to add wow factor without the commitment or expense of a kitchen remodel. Here are the top reasons to add a shot of color to your island.
Creates Strong Visual Contrast
Painting the island a different shade than the main cabinetry makes it stand out. The contrast immediately draws the eye. Just like wearing a patterned blazer with a solid tee, an island in a bold color pops against a neutral kitchen backdrop.
Lets You Change the Color Scheme
An island paint job allows you to introduce a new color into your existing color palette. Changing up the island paint is an easy way to test drive a new bold or trendy color before committing it to all the cabinetry.
Freshens Up the Space
Over time, even subtle kitchen colors can start to feel stale. A fresh island color gives the illusion of a new kitchen without the mess and expense of a renovation. It's an instant facelift for a fraction of the cost.
Much Cheaper than Remodeling
While a full kitchen remodel can cost tens of thousands of dollars, painting the island is a project you can tackle yourself over a weekend for less than $100. It's a budget-friendly bang for your buck when you want kitchen change without the hefty price tag.
Easy DIY Weekend Project
With some basic painting supplies and tools, painting your island is a DIY project for novice and pro painters alike. No need to hire a contractor or install new cabinets. As long as you prep properly, applying fresh paint is straightforward.
Choosing the Right Island Color
Picking the perfect island color may seem tricky, but just keep a few factors in mind. The shade you choose should coordinate with your existing kitchen elements while adding striking contrast.
Factors to Consider
When selecting an island color, assess how it fits with these existing kitchen components:
- Cabinetry color
- Countertop material and hue
- Backsplash tile or paint color
- Overall color scheme
- Lighting
- Kitchen layout and furniture style
Aim for a color that complements your current palette rather than competing with it. The island should stand out without clashing.
Popular Island Color Ideas
Some current trending island paint colors to consider:
- Navy blue
- Forest green
- Charcoal gray
- Soft black
- Dark teal
- Rich blue-green
For a more subtle look, pale grays, blues, and greens are attractive island colors that don't overwhelm. But deep, saturated hues pack the most punch.
Bold vs. Neutral Island Colors
Lighter island colors like white, beige, and pale gray blend in more with surrounding cabinetry while still adding dimension. Bolder navy, black, and jewel-tone islands make the biggest visual impact.
Match vs. Contrasting Island and Cabinet Colors
You could paint your island to match the existing cabinetry, but for maximum effect, go for contrast. For example, a navy island against creamy white cabinets really pops. Don't be afraid to get creative with color combinations.
Preparing and Painting the Island
Prepping properly helps ensure your freshly painted island looks professional, not sloppy. Follow these steps for stellar painting results.
Prepping the Surface
Thoroughly clean the island then sand to rough up the surface. Wipe away dust. Apply painter's tape around the edges to protect nearby surfaces. Lay drop cloths below.
Priming
Use an oil-based primer like Zinsser Cover Stain to block stains and seal the surface. Thoroughly coat all surfaces that will be painted. Allow to fully dry overnight before painting.
Choosing the Right Sheen
For islands, opt for a semi-gloss or satin paint rather than high-gloss. The subtle sheen is easier to clean and stands up to water spots and scuffs. Matte paint would show marks too easily.
Applying Paint
Use a quality nylon or polyester brush for the best finish on cabinetry. Rollers work for flat side panels. Apply paint in thin, even coats allowing proper drying time between coats. Two coats ensure full coverage.
Second Coats and Touch-Ups
Give the entire island two coats of paint for a flawless look. Check for any drips or missed spots and do touch ups. Remove masking tape immediately after the final coat before paint dries.
Design Ideas to Highlight Your Fresh Island Color
A few decorative details will make your painted island look even more luxe. Use these easy upgrades to showcase your new island hue.
Backlighting or Pendant Lighting
Installing lighting over or behind the island illuminates it in the kitchen space. Opt for pendant lights or backlighting along the top of a tall island.
Contrasting Countertops
Pair attention-grabbing quartz or colored marble countertops with your bold island paint color. Contrast makes both elements stand out.
Adding Barstools and Accessories
Iron or wood barstools in a finish like matte black complement a dark, painted island. Style with decorative bowls, vases, or tray accents.
Landscape Artwork or Botanical Accents
Hang a colorful landscape painting above the island or style with potted succulents and lush greenery. Natural textures enhance the island color.
Mistakes to Avoid
Steer clear of these missteps to ensure an island paint job you'll love.
Choosing a Color that Clashes
Pick an island color that enhances your existing kitchen finishes instead of fighting them. A jarring shade overwhelms the space instead of accentuating.
Wrong Sheen for High-Traffic Area
Avoid flat paints without shine. They show scuffs too easily. Use satin or semi-gloss sheens that stand up to bumps and spills.
Insufficient Prep and Priming
Rushing through sanding, cleaning, taping, and priming leads to uneven paint quality. Proper prep prevents do-overs.
Paint Bleeding Onto Other Surfaces
Carefully tape off edges and lay drop cloths to prevent stray paint smears on countertops and floors. Remove tape right after painting before it sticks.
Upgrade your kitchen in a weekend by painting your island an invigorating new color. Contrasting an island against neutral cabinetry instantly modernizes a dull or dated space. After proper prepping and priming, apply two coats of a bold, semi-gloss paint. Add pendant lighting, barstools, and decor to highlight your island. With minimal effort and money, you can enjoy a completely refreshed kitchen. Just don't make the mistake of choosing an uncoordinated color. Pick a hue that enhances your existing finishes. Painting your island is a foolproof way to add a wow factor.