If you’re thinking of renovating your dream kitchen this year, you’ve probably fantasised about the perfect island, the heart of the kitchen. The spot for all your meal preps, chats, and cheeky snacks.
Sorry to rain on your parade, but if you’re living in Brisbane and want your kitchen renovation to survive the long haul, we’re going to have to ask you to hold your horses before diving into some of 2025’s overrated and overdone kitchen island trends.
Might be disappointing, yes, but we might also be saving you from spending a wad of cash on designs you will regret later on.
Let us guide you through the 10 kitchen island trends Brisbane homeowners should avoid, and what they should opt for instead for a timeless and functional kitchen island.
A huge stone in the middle of your kitchen may look great on Pinterest, but in real Brisbane homes, especially smaller, cosy ones or open-plan designs, this option can feel like a literal monolithic crowding your space rather than an aesthetic geological addition.
Why it’s a mistake:
What to do instead: Go for an island that leaves at least 1 metre of clearance on all sides. Make sure it stays proportionate to your kitchen layout, and complements the space rather than overwhelms it.
Learn more about Common Kitchen Renovation Mistakes
Stuffing everything onto one island may seem convenient, but this is one of those instances where cutting corners backfires.
Why it’s a mistake:
What to do instead: Prioritise one function. If it’s seating, then avoid cramming in the stove. If it’s for prepping, take out the bar stools. First, give your island purpose, and then design accordingly.
Your kitchen island is not a fallout shelter or a prison cell – uniformity makes your kitchen look bland. It’s 2025, and that means your kitchen can have personality and contrasts.
Why it’s a mistake:
What to do instead: Get creative and go for a different finish or color!
Breakfast at the counter is a staple for many, but high stools can make you think again when it comes to comfort and inclusivity.
Why it’s a mistake:
What to do instead: Combine bench-height seating or construct a lower seating into the island. This option is better, ergonomically and for your everyday lifestyle.
No one wants an island with everything (from sinks, chopping boards, wine racks, shelves, and plants) but no actual space to cook and prep meals.
Why it’s a mistake:
What to do instead: Limit your island features to one or two. Leave a lot of clear surface space for serving, prep, and even those spontaneous hangouts.
These multi-level islands were the talk of the town in the early 2010s, but now they’re just getting in the way.
Why it’s a mistake:
What to do instead: One is better than two, so stick to one level. It’s always a lot more versatile, sleek, and makes cleaning way more fun and easy.
These may look amazing on magazine spreads, but not so much for Aussie living, with Brisbane’s climate.
Why it’s a mistake:
What to do instead: Opt for matte or textured surfaces, such as honed stone or timber that have soft, curvy edges for a warm, safe, and timeless look.
While the look may be Pinterest worthy with all the perfectly lined cookbooks and ceramics, in real life, kitchens work way differently.
Why it’s a mistake:
What to do instead: The best bet is to go with closed cabinets and drawers with smart organisers. You’ll appreciate how clean your kitchen looks!
Small kitchens make you want to drown things in convenience, but the option to multitask with an appliance in the island can take away a chunk of your much-needed bench space.
Why it’s a mistake:
What to do instead: Keep the island space clear, and install your appliances along the kitchen wall.
While going with uniform cabinetry, handles, and finishes is safe, it could be too safe.
Why it’s a mistake:
What to do instead: Experiment with contrasting finishes. Think shiny brass handles against navy cabinetry or matte black taps on a timber top – it’s the insignificant touches that bring a unique timelessness to a kitchen.
A kitchen island can only be the star of your Brisbane kitchen if it’s functionally perfect, well-designed, and speaks for your lifestyle. The kitchen reno industry never runs out of trends, so taking your time to pick the best, most thoughtful, suitable, and timeless design will be rewarding.
If you think you need help with that, we at Bayside Kitchens, got you.
Our advice is to save unnecessary spending on these trendy traps and instead go for an island that’s functional, practical, pretty, and built to last – the way you want.
We’ll help you construct the perfect island that fits your budget, lifestyle, and space.
👉 Grab your Free Kitchen Design Consultation Today!