Which is more important: style or practicality? Kevin Bacon and Kyra Sedgwick opt for aesthetics in their kitchen with a wooden island. It's a beautiful complement to their wooden cabinets, but experts warn the material can degrade quickly.
Wooden kitchen islands have become increasingly popular over the last few years as rustic style has risen as an interior design trend. Interior designer Nina Lichtenstein explains: 'The appeal of rustic accents in kitchen design lies in the fact that they evoke a sense of timeless charm and warmth. Adding elements like stone walls, exposed beams, or reclaimed wood surfaces to a kitchen instantly transforms the space into a cozy retreat. They add visual interest and a sense of authenticity, creating a space that feels lived-in and welcoming.' For many people, these stunning effects outweigh any practical concerns.
However, despite the clear design benefits, wooden counter tops like Kevin and Kyra's remain controversial due to concerns about their longevity. Experts ponder, are wooden countertops a good idea? Megan Slack, interior design expert and the Head of Celebrity Style at Homes & Gardens advises: 'Wood can stain, chip, and scratch easily, meaning that you may need to replace a wooden kitchen island more than other materials. Furthermore, depending on the treatment, these surfaces are not always waterproof which can lead to difficulties with warping. As you can see, there are already a few scratches on Kyra and Kevin's island, which may need to be replaced soon.
Shop the Wood Kitchen Edit
If you love the look of wood, but don't want to risk the degradation of wood countertops overtime, integrating the material with your kitchen styling is a good alternative. These pieces look beautiful on a dining table, island, or behind glass cabinets.
This naturally beautiful fruit salad serving bowl is made from reclaimed cedar stumps with an easy care food-safe lacquer finish. It would be perfect for display on white or black countertops to bring in a rustic feel.
Perfect for large dinner parties, this lazy susan can fit a variety of seasonings and decor. When your spices and oils aren't in use, they will look organized and stylish.
This multi-use board can display charcuterie or sit on your countertop for use when cooking. It's the perfect way to bring a subtle sense of rawness to a kitchen of any color.
If you prefer a more subtle integration of the material, you can still emulate the rustic modern charm of Kevin and Kyra's kitchen with thoughtful decor. For instance, Nina recommends decorating with warm colors. She explains: 'Opt for warm earthy tones such as terracotta, olive green, or deep browns to enhance the cozy ambiance.
These colors complement the natural hues of stone and wood. To accentuate the rustic details, consider painting the walls in a warm shade of white, like Alabaster, which will beautifully complement the natural textures and earthy tones of the rustic elements.'
If you love the look of a wooden kitchen island, it's important to listen to your preferences. However, it's also important to be aware of the risks. What do you think? Would you install a wooden island like Kevin and Kyra's in your own home?
