The Newest Kitchen Island Trend Is All About Rounded Edges

Kitchen islands have been around since the 1950s, and their significance in a kitchen plan has continued to grow. Now seen as a must-have feature, islands provide an intentional, central space to gather and socialize in the kitchen. They also provide additional counter space to eat, prepare food, and store kitchen items. The best islands are both functional and aesthetic additions to a kitchen. They should fit just right in the space so they don't look out of place and still give you room to move around them freely.

You can store dishes, spices, and cooking appliances on them, and you can also add some color and life to the kitchen by decorating the island with flowers, fruits, or baked goods. They've changed in appearance over the years, from their countertop materials to their seat types, and the latest trend is all about rounded edges. The curved furniture trend has taken the design world by storm with curved couches and side tables, and the kitchen is not exempt. Here's what's behind the appeal of curves and round edges when it comes to kitchen islands.

The curved furniture trend was born out of a desire to do something different from the standard lines and shapes in interior design. "Amorphic islands and kitchens are a trend influenced by Mediterranean architecture where walls seamlessly transition to cabinetry. The material choices of the walls and cabinetry can take this concept from traditional to modern. These same shapes are also trending in furniture, cars, and fashion accessories," says interior designer Matthew Quinn, via Better Homes & Gardens. Round shapes and curves are a new design opportunity to do something more creative since they focus more on sculpting. From the user's perspective, they are more appealing because they make the gathering experience more inviting and intimate.

Curved sofas, side tables and chairs, light fixtures, and even art pieces make us feel more comfortable than in a space full of straight edges. This is because we instinctively worry when we see sharp corners, and our brains make us avoid them due to a sense of danger. Softness is important to create a relaxing vibe in the home, so it's no surprise that curved furniture continues to trend. Feng shui principles also encourage soft curves and round edges to strike a balance of energy in a room and create harmony.

First, curved kitchen islands make people sit closer and make it easier to see around the counter, which enhances the social aspect. Their appeal also lies in their ability to fit perfectly in whichever space you want them, which helps if you're trying to make the most of a small room or an unusual layout. Instead of the traditional four straight edges, you have various options with curved islands. They can be curved on as many sides as you want and come in asymmetrical shapes to really fit your kitchen.

Kitchen islands were initially more like worktables, so rounded edges make the space feel cozier and less harsh. In addition to the safety we feel from the softness of round edges, they are also more visually appealing to our eyes, which is why round islands can feel like sculpture pieces on their own. An island with straight edges will look out of place if it is asymmetrical, but you'll be more likely to get away with a round-edge island.