How “Practical Magic 2” Brought Back Pure ’90s Design Magic in a Single Kitchen Detail

One of Hollywood’s most iconic and coveted sets is coming back to screens this fall. Practical Magic 2 is in theaters later this week, and I couldn’t possibly be more excited! Sure, returning to a beloved film full of witchy whimsy is a great way to usher in fall’s spooky season — icons Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman are returning in their titular roles as sisters Sally and Gillian Owens, this time alongside series newcomers Joey King and Maisie Williams. But I do believe the true breakout star of this film is the set design. I’m selfishly so ready to revisit the iconic coastal home that’s haunted my dreams ever since this film graced the silver screen in the ’90s.

Specifically, I’m smitten by the botanical-laden kitchen that the film’s set designers lovingly re-created, all referencing the historical character of the sleepy northwestern Washington town that served as the first film’s backdrop. With its cozy English charm and ‘90s nostalgia, the original Practical Magic kitchen has been a staple feature on Pinterest boards for as long as I can remember. From its open shelves filled with jars and trinkets to the classic wide-plank wood floors, the set is full of style inspiration. But its most iconic feature? The use of an eat-in kitchen island.

The Owens sisters’ apothecary-like kitchen — which was initially created by renowned design firm Roman and Williams in the 1990s — has stood the test of time. To this day, fans are still trying to re-create the magic of the original set.

And the piecè de résistance of said set is its kitchen island. In the movie, the sisters use the island for everything from brewing magical potions to mixing midnight margaritas (same difference, some would say); it truly is the heart of the home. 

A floating, furniture-style kitchen island simply refers to a piece that’s separate from the other kitchen cabinets, and often looks like its own separate piece of furniture. (So this look is totally attainable — no magical powers necessary!)

In clips from the sequel’s trailer, it appears that the Owens sisters’ island is an antique wooden table, complete with small stools for seating. It’s perfect for midnight margaritas, after all. 

These were a staple in old English kitchens, which the Practical Magic set was directly inspired by, as designers Stephen and Robin Alesch of Roman and Williams told Elle Decor last year. And as Apartment Therapy reported last summer, the design world as a whole is in the midst of a full English kitchen revival. So it makes perfect sense that social media is going wild once again over the set in the new movie, Practical Magic 2 — and that the kitchen feels just as stylish today as it did 28 years ago.

To get the coveted look for yourself, consider ditching a kitchen island and going for an antique table in the kitchen instead. Add chairs to make it a dining table, or source a taller piece with counter stools if you plan to use it more as a prep space. Either way, you don’t have to be a witch to make magic happen in the kitchen. Try adding a freestanding island to your kitchen, and voila! Watch the cozy, whimsical vibes instantly intensify.