(By Ashley Salinas)
When I hear summer, I think dinner parties. There is no greater feeling then being able to sit around a table and share a meal with your loved ones. Although, it is becoming a lot more popular for families to ditch their traditional tables and sit around the kitchen island for dinner instead. Why is this becoming a popular trend? Perhaps people enjoy the taller pub like chairs, or maybe they just enjoy being close to the food source.
Whatever the reason, make sure your kitchen island is perfect for your next gathering. Here is the list of 2016’s trendy kitchen islands.
Black and White Islands
White is an elegant color for kitchen cabinets, but too much white might seem boring. Adding a black island to your kitchen may be a perfect solution to this problem. This is a classic look that will stand the test of time.

(photo: HGTV.com)

(photo: Jillian Harris)
Pop of Color Islands
For the home owners who find black and white to be a snooze fest, then you might like the “Pop of Color” trend. There is a way to add a pop of color without it being too overwhelming on the eyes. If you stick to earth toned hues, or a muted color, your kitchen will not look too busy.

(photo: lioncloud.com)

(photo: Decor Pad)

(photo: It All Started With Paint)
Gray Islands
HGTV says Gray is the new white. I am not fully convinced of this, but I love the gray trend nonetheless. This has to be my favorite of the trends on this list. I love monochromatic color pallets and a gray island would be a great addition to an all-white kitchen. You can play this color down and make it look shabby chic or dress it up and make it look extremely elegant.

(photo: Strawberry Milk)

(photo: lioncloud.com)
Rustic Natural Wood Islands
I’m not sure if this is a real trend, but if it isn’t, it should be. There is something so beautiful about unfinished wood (or at least the appearance of unfinished wood).

(photo: Architecture Art Design)
So there is my list of trendy kitchen islands for the summer of 2016. Which is your favorite? Are you following any of these trends? If not, then what’s the hold up? Come down to Gulf and Basco and get your remodel started. We offer a full suite of products in a variety of price-points and complimentary design services.