''Looking to put in an island of some kind''

So your typical all too commonplace kitchen with the ubiquitous obligatory island.

No something unique.

A beautiful, functional island will be beautiful and functional regardless of current trends or how many islands are in other kitchens.

How functional an island is really depends on the space and flow to and from adjacent rooms. You need to consider where you want cabinets and drawers, what the island does (seating? cutting board? sink?), and how much elbow room you're left with. Think of the function and flow, if you can come up with a configuration that works then start detailing.

Don't try to shoehorn an island into the space if it doesn't fit. With 12x12 though, the space may be screaming for an island. Hard to say without a visual.

Whatever you come up with for cabinets and counters - island, peninsula, dance floor - use some blue painter's tape and lay it out on the floor as accurately as possible. Live with it for a while, imagining a 36" tall solid object where the tape is. See if you're constantly bumping your hip against the corner or if it's in the way of a common path of traffic, etc. Make tweaks while the tape is cheap until you fall in love with a layout.

The biggest problem is that "unique" usually equates to dysfunctional. You really need to talk with the best known and most award winning kitchen design firm in your area. They can give you something great looking that still works.

Thanks!