You could hang 2 large chandeliers to distract from the size of the island. This would draw your eye up and turn it into a focal point. My suggestion would be 2 Ingrid Wide Chandeliers, 2 Odyssey Chandeliers, or 2 Evan/Evangeline Lanterns. You can view these lighting on our website at www.julieneill.com.

You could create a couple of vignettes on either end, but asymmetrically. Maybe some substantial candle holders with a large bowl for fruit (lemons or limes) and on the other side a vase with fresh flowers.

favorite shape

Once it is completed and furnished it probably won't seem as large. I'd keep the base light colored. The dark cabinets in the kitchen will draw the eye to the back wall.

I like the idea of 2 large chandeliers as well! Once you get the barstools/chairs etc in....it probably will look okay. Don't panic yet! :)

Would you consider utilizing the space with some lovely breakfast stools on the outside of island for conversation or kids doing homework. I also do like the idea of the chandiler lighting or perhaps pendant lighting in a bold color.

I kind of like the scale of it, but maybe that is just me, it looks like the kitchen is very large and open. I'm figuring you plan on doing stools around it of somesort. If you are maybe larger scale stools, with backs and arms, may also take the eye off from the vast countertop? If you like to entertain it will probably serve you well with all that space. I like Julie Neill Designs idea with the 2 large chandeliers, as well as bonthony, great suggestions! Good luck, it'll be a beautiful space when it's completed and all pulled together.

I love the island size. I like how someone can work at the island but not get splashed by sink water since you have distance between the sink and stool work space.

you could balance off the island by having something equally as large such as the window seat seen in the inspiration pic or similar

I like the lighting idea for sure. But I am also going to suggest something else. Considering you may put bar stools to sit at this massive area....do another finish on the drywall under the counter. People put their feet on the drywall and you will see the dirt right away!

This truly is a 1st world problem, you know! LOL Congrats on such a nice new house. Could you have a little short wall added down the middle of the counter? I think that would do what you want, but it really would be a shame since you have paid for that awesome-big slab of granite.





Is the seam down the entire length? Could they split it & raise the height on the seating side? Lighting or a pot-rack will also break up the space.
https://www.houzz.com/photos/2007-showcase-traditional-kitchen-new-york-phvw-vp~53967

Your ample island can definitely handle a large chandelier or a trio of larger scale pendants. I also like the idea of keeping bar stools backless to draw less attention to the mass of the island. When you get a large crowd in your kitchen you will be pleased to have a generously sized island for buffets and serving.

I think some large square hanging lights would look good as well. Check out these from Lantern & Scroll (they are awesome to work with). Cheers!

I swear my pictures never upload. I'll try again.

Here is the other one.

A very pretty kitchen! I like the idea of a high hanging pot rack with lighting, but it must be large/to scale.

Pot rack is a great idea, you may also consider some columns atop the granite to define/divide the eating area from the kitchen area

I would recommend paneling on the back over the sheet rock to match the cabinets.

Old post, 2013

I think you are overwhelmed by the size because the house isn't finished. That is going to be such an asset when you entertaine. As others suggested I would use 4 or 5 good sized bar stools with backs and arms. I wouldn't put a pot rack up as that gets messy looking. When you place a couple of large kitchen decor items on the counter, along with a lighting fixture and the bar stools it will bring it down to a more acceptable size. I'm sure in a couple of years you will be wondering how anybody could live with a smaller Island