The Art of the Island

Centerpieces for a Well-Dressed Room

In a beautifully appointed closet, the island often becomes the heart of the space — part sculpture, part storage, and entirely custom. Beyond mere drawers and surfaces, closet islands can function as vanities, desks, boutique-style displays, and even hidden utility hubs.

At LA Closet Design, we approach every island as a piece of furniture tailored to our client’s lifestyle — from shapely silhouettes to luxe materials and clever built-ins. Here are a few of our favorite island design ideas to elevate your dressing space:

1. The Custom Shape

Islands don’t have to be rectangular. We’ve designed oval, clover-shaped, and even asymmetrical islands to soften the geometry of a closet or create more intuitive flow around the space. Bonus: sculptural shapes make even the most utilitarian elements feel luxurious.

Perfect for: grand closets, more traditional floor plans, or rooms with unusual footprints.

2. The Waterfall Countertop

When simplicity meets statement. A waterfall-edge island — often clad in marble, oak, or even acrylic — feels effortlessly modern while anchoring the space with bold materiality. It’s a minimal detail with major impact.

Perfect for: clean lines, natural textures, or rooms where materiality shines.

3. Oversized & Multipurpose

For clients with room to spare, we often stretch the standard island footprint to include multiple functions: a dressing table, glam station, integrated hamper, or seating nook. Some even include drawers on one side and a vanity on the other — it’s all about versatility.

Perfect for: multi-user closets, vanity rituals, or a space that deserves a true centerpiece.

4. Glass-Top Display Islands

Think of it as your own boutique. We love creating shallow velvet-lined drawers topped with glass — ideal for organizing jewelry, sunglasses, watches, or cherished accessories in full view. It turns the everyday act of getting dressed into a moment of delight.

Perfect for: collectors, accessory lovers, or anyone who appreciates visual order.

5. Island as Desk

Yes, your closet can double as your office. For those who journal, write, or simply like a tucked-away workspace, we’ve designed islands with integrated seating, power outlets, and slim drawers for stationery or tech. A beautiful way to blend beauty and function.

Perfect for: writers, travelers, or clients who value a quiet moment before the day begins.

6. Hidden Touches & Clever Add-Ons

The beauty of a custom island is how personal it can be. Some of our favorites include:

• Pull-out ironing boards or hampers

• Integrated refrigeration for cosmetics or cold drinks

• Upholstered tops

• Tambour or fluted detailing for added texture

• Rounded corners for soft elegance

Even the smallest features can transform how you move through your space.

Want to Create Your Dream Closet?

From shapely showpieces to dual-purpose storage, closet islands can be as expressive or understated as you wish — and we’re here to help you design one that fits you perfectly.

[→ Schedule a consult] or [Follow us on Instagram] for more design inspiration.