No 8 FANTASY ISLAND

EASY UPGRADE Bestselling cookbook author and former TV host Greta Podleski designed her kitchen island to look like a vintage sideboard. “I love the stylish view into the kitchen from the dining room,” says Podleski. “And it provides a ton of functional storage.” If a custom island isn’t in the budget, create one from a vintage dining table or dresser. Just add a durable top, like marble or butcher block, and install castors to raise the top to counter height.

WHY WE LOVE IT A sideboard-style option pairs the functionality of a storage-heavy kitchen island with the chic look of furniture.