Kitchen Island Curtain Update: Adding Style and Functionality

Looking for a simple, affordable way to add character and practicality to your kitchen? Updating your kitchen island with a curtain might be just the thing! Recently, I made this change in my kitchen, and it’s brought a whole new layer of texture and charm to the space.

If you’re a fan of cottage-style design or simply want to hide open shelving in a stylish way, a kitchen island curtain is a quick and effective update. Let me walk you through how I did it!

---

Why Update Your Kitchen Island with a Curtain?

Four years ago, we completed a full kitchen renovation (check out the kitchen reveal here), and I still love all the design choices we made. One of my favorite features is the open shelving on one side of the island, perfect for storing large serving platters, bowls, and more.

However, I recently felt the need for a slight change. The open shelving is practical but allows dust to settle on items, and it doesn’t always look tidy. Adding a curtain offered two big benefits:

1. Concealing Clutter: Items are neatly hidden away while still accessible when needed.
2. Adding Style: The curtain introduces a soft texture and fun pattern, enhancing the cozy cottage vibe of the space.

---

How I Added a Curtain to My Kitchen Island

This project was straightforward and budget-friendly! Here’s how I did it:

1. Choosing the Right Curtain Rod

I opted for a sash rod from Walmart to fit the space perfectly. Sash rods are typically used for doors because they sit closer to the surface, making them ideal for the 1-inch overhang on my island.

2. Finding the Perfect Fabric

After some searching, I found a set of beautiful ticking stripe curtains on Amazon. The fabric is soft, washable, and just the right length for my island. If you’re struggling to find curtains that fit, don’t worry—this can be a simple DIY sewing project, even for beginners!

3. Installing the Curtain

I installed the rod under the overhang of the island and hung the curtains. The process was quick and easy, and the result is both practical and stylish. Now, I can:

• Keep the shelves concealed for a clean look.
• Pull back the curtain to showcase my dishes when I want a decorative display.

---

The Benefits of a Kitchen Island Curtain

• Dust Protection: Keeps items clean and ready to use.
• Added Texture: Softens the look of the kitchen and complements the other design elements.
• Cottage Charm: This popular cottage-style detail enhances the cozy feel of the space.
• Easy Maintenance: Washable curtains make it a practical choice for a kitchen.

---

Shop the Look

I’ve rounded up the exact products I used for this update, as well as similar options to help you recreate this look in your home:

---

Final Thoughts

This kitchen island curtain update has completely transformed the look and functionality of my space. It’s a simple project that doesn’t take much time or money but makes a big impact.

Whether you’re looking to add a touch of cottage charm or need a stylish way to hide clutter, this is a fantastic solution. Have you tried adding curtains to furniture in your home? I’d love to hear your ideas in the comments!

conceal it better so items are less dusty I decided a curtain would work. I also love a curtain on a piece of furniture for the texture and pattern it adds to the room. It's a popular design choice in cottage design.

To start this project, I bought a sash rod from Walmart (LINK). I needed one that was longer so a 84 inch worked for this space. A sash curtain rod is often used on a door because it is a closer fit, doesn't hang out as much. This worked well because the top of the island has about an inch overhang.  The rod fit there beautifully. Next, I was lucky enough to find a set of curtains in a beautiful ticking strip fabric that were just the right length! Here are the curtains I bought from Amazon (LINK).  They are washable so if spills occur, I can throw them in the washer. I originally thought I was going to have to make curtains of my own due to the size. If you have too, making your own is a quick and easy sewing project for a beginner, so don't be afraid. 

Now, I can easily conceal my items underneath the island or pull the curtains back to highlight my dishes. It's an easy solution and did not cost a whole lot!

 

Updating My Kitchen Island with a Curtain