In an age where kitchen islands are increasingly reduced to sleek, sculptural slabs – designed to photograph beautifully but often lacking in real-world practicality – Kendall Jenner’s kitchen offers a refreshing alternative. Created in collaboration with interior designer Heidi Caillier, the space quietly challenges the idea that minimalism equates to luxury, instead making a compelling case for warmth, usability, and well-considered kitchen island storage.
At the heart of the kitchen sits a generously proportioned wooden kitchen island that feels both substantial and inviting. Rather than hiding its function, the island celebrates it. Where many contemporary designs favor uninterrupted stone or handle-less cabinetry, Kendall’s island embraces visibility, proving that kitchen storage – when thoughtfully designed – can serve as both a functional necessity and an important layer of visual interest.
Storage is, after all, the backbone of any successful kitchen. Without it, even the most beautiful space quickly becomes impractical. Here, Heidi Caillier leans into that reality, opting for a furniture-style island that blends traditional closed cabinetry with deep, open cubbies. The result is an island that feels collected and intentional, more akin to a treasured antique than a sterile modern fixture.
The standout detail lies in the open cubbies, where oversized wicker baskets add texture while serving a clear purpose. They provide practical storage for items that often end up on countertops – folded linens, serving platters, or root vegetables that need ventilation – keeping the island functional without sacrificing visual interest. Rather than feeling cluttered, the visible storage adds warmth and makes the kitchen feel considered and lived-in.
This approach is also highly adaptable. While baskets work well here, the same open niches can be styled to suit different needs, from stacks of cookbooks to everyday crockery kept close to the prep area. For a more polished look, these spaces can even be fitted with a wine fridge, allowing the island to function just as well for entertaining as it does for daily use.
Storage-led islands are particularly effective in smaller kitchens, where space is limited. By concentrating storage at the center of the room, the island can reduce the need for walls of tall cabinetry, which can otherwise make compact kitchens feel enclosed. With storage built into the island, walls can be left clear for windows or artwork, helping the space feel lighter and more open.
While ultra-minimalist islands may work in showrooms, they often fall short in everyday settings. Jenner’s island succeeds because it reflects how kitchens are actually used. The mix of visible storage, dark wood, and traditional hardware creates a practical yet characterful focal point.
Ultimately, the design shows that good kitchens don’t hide function – they integrate it. By making storage part of the island’s visual appeal, Kendall Jenner and Heidi Caillier have created a centerpiece that is both hardworking and timeless, proving that the most successful kitchens are designed for real life.
Shop Kitchen Storage
When most people think of storage, they focus on practicality and functionality, but in reality, storage can and should be beautiful too, adding style, texture, and personality to the spaces we live in every day. Here are my favorite kitchen storage buys that perfectly combine practicality with aesthetic appeal.
Organize with style using these eco-friendly, handwoven baskets. Perfect for kitchens, pantries, bathrooms, or laundry rooms, they feature built-in handles for easy access and come with chalkboard labels to quickly identify contents. Durable, versatile, and effortlessly chic.
Handcrafted from natural rattan, these coastal-inspired bins combine style and practicality. Their neutral tone and sturdy design suit any decor, while removable cotton liners make cleaning easy. Perfect for linens, clothing, or accessories, they maximize storage and keep spaces effortlessly organized.
