By Melissa Dittmann Tracey, REALTOR® Magazine

Home buyers love kitchen islands. It’s become a gathering spot for not just cooking but also eating, working, and socializing. As the island continues to gain stature in kitchens, homeowners are finding ways to spotlight it with contrasting shades or even different countertops to make it the focal point.

Check out some examples from designers featured at Houzz, which show how the kitchen island can become the showpiece of your space.

An island of a different color

Photo by JJP Construction – Look for kitchen design inspiration

Furniture-styled islands

Photo by Garrison Hullinger Interior Design Inc. – Browse kitchen ideas

Contrasting countertops

Photo by Martha O’Hara Interiors – Search kitchen design ideas

Lighting it up

Photo by William Byrd Homes – More kitchen photos

Plenty of seating

Photo by celia welch interiors – Browse kitchen photos