7 expert-approved boho kitchen island ideas that are chic and chilled out

We're swooning over these boho kitchen island ideas that designers love

We love boho kitchen island ideas like this island with green cabinets, white countertop and three light wooden stools, and a marble vase with large green plant
(Image credit: Harvey Jones)

Reaching for boho kitchen island ideas will work for you if you love breezy styles with plenty of personality. 

With just a few easy additions, you can turn your island into a relaxed place where friends and family members can perch while you cook. Vintage-inspired pieces, mixtures of color, and organic materials are just a few of their top suggestions.

Searching for kitchen island ideas with specific themes is a wonderful way to ensure style cohesion throughout your cooking space.

Beautiful boho kitchen island ideas

For those who love farmhouse kitchen island ideas but want something a little breezier and more carefree, boho may be the style for you.

We have picked out beautiful buys throughout to match our experts' advice, in case you want to get started styling.

The prices below were correct at the time of publishing this article.

1. Hang reclaimed wooden beams above

A kitchen with dark brown wooden beams above it, a black iron pendant light, and a kitchen island with orange panels and two black seats in front of it

(Image credit: The Wood Flooring Co.)

Homeowners, this one is for you if you have a blank kitchen ceiling in need of some love.

“You can install reclaimed wood beams above your boho kitchen island to add architectural interest and warmth,” suggests Raf Michalowski, interior designer and founder of Meble Furniture.

He continues, “This will create a welcoming atmosphere reminiscent of rustic boho retreats.”

Raf suggests hanging string lights (the OakHomie String Lights from Amazon are remote-controlled) from the beams to enhance the bohemian feel further.

2. Decorate with plants

A light green kitchen with a kitchen island with a dark brown countertop and silver faucet, with a plant hanging above it on a wood and metal grid, and white kitchen cabinets behind it

(Image credit: Olive & Barr)

It just can’t be boho decor without the best indoor plants, which are easy kitchen island style ideas.

“Plants are always a must-have in bohemian designs, so consider adding hanging plants or potted herbs around the kitchen island for a natural and vibrant touch,” says Jonathan Faccone, design expert and founder of Halo Homebuyers.

You could always place these in a macrame hanger (the Mipon Macrame Hangers are Amazon's Choice) to add even more breezy texture to your boho kitchen island.

3. Pick vintage-style decor

A birds eye shot of four circular plates with colorful floral patterns on them and a vase with yellow flowers

(Image credit: Anthropologie)

Give your boho kitchen island plenty of character by adding colorful vintage-style decor, plates and cookware.

“Travel back in time with a boho kitchen island featuring vintage-inspired accents and retro flair,” suggests Nina Lichtenstein, principal designer and founder of Nina’s Home Design.

She says, “Look for floral vases and tableware to add rustic personality to your island.”

If you’re struggling to find anything at your favorite secondhand furniture stores, these Turkauz Plates, pictured above, from Anthropologie are stunning and a Real Homes Editor favorite.

4. Mix muted and colorful shades

A kitchen with a moss green kitchen island with a white countertop and three light wooden stools, and light gray cabinets and a silver fridge in front of it

(Image credit: Harvey Jones)

Channel your creativity by pairing together subtle and playful kitchen island colors to create a truly boho kitchen space.

“Keep the color palette neutral with soft, muted tones and subtle pops of color for a serene and sophisticated look,” Nina suggests.

You can either paint your kitchen island or tile it (we're loving these Merola Tiles from Wayfair) for a Mediterranean-inspired finish.

5. Go for organic materials

A kitchen island with a wooden base, black granite countertop with a wooden board on it, three curved wooden and metal bar stools, and three yellow glass pendant lights above it

(Image credit: Wood Works Brighton)

Bring the beauty of the outdoors inside with a boho kitchen island that celebrates the natural world. 

Nina says, “Choose materials such as reclaimed wood, bamboo, and stone to create a rustic and organic look that feels grounded and earthy.”

For those looking for finishing touches rather than full kitchen island renovations, go for characterful kitchen island decor, like this luxe-looking Fedia Bowl from Banana Republic.

6. Play with lighting

A kitchen with a wooden rectangular kitchen island with a rattan pendant light above it and light blue cabinets and a window with beige blinds behind it

(Image credit: Anthropologie)

Creating a cozy ambiance with your boho kitchen island lighting will make it an even more inviting place to be.

“You can combine an eclectic mix of materials such as rattan and metal to create a dynamic focal point,” Nina adds.

For renters who can’t change fixtures, you can still add lighting onto the surface itself.

“Fill mason jars (these Yingerhuan Jars on Amazon are very versatile) filled with string lights, adding a rustic and whimsical touch to the kitchen island lighting,” suggests Jonathan. 

7. Keep it simple

A light wooden kitchen island with white surfaces, three gold globe pendant lights hanging in front, and a black window and two wall sconces on a white wall behind it

(Image credit: Wood Works Brighton)

This is a handy tip for those looking for small kitchen island ideas, as too much clutter can overwhelm the space and mess your kitchen feng shui

Nina says, “Adopt the principles of minimalism with a boho-inspired kitchen island that honors simplicity and restraint.”

She advises choosing clean lines, understated finishes, and pared-back details for a modern take on bohemian style.


From natural textures to vintage charm, boho kitchen island ideas offer endless possibilities for creating a space as unique and eclectic as you.

“This is your chance to transform your kitchen island into a boho-inspired centerpiece that reflects your free-spirited style and adventurous spirit,” Nina finishes by saying.

For those looking for even more breezy styles, you may also love coastal kitchen island ideas.

Eve Smallman
Staff Writer

Hi there! I’m a staff writer at Real Homes. I've been a lifestyle journalist for over five years, previously working as an editor across regional magazines. Before this, I graduated from Nottingham Trent University a degree in journalism, along with an NCTJ gold diploma. I love running, decorating my rented Victorian home, and discovering new cheeses. 

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