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Build a Kitchen Island   by Marc Greenfields

Kitchen islands have become an integral part of every home as they create a lot of diversity and flexibility to any kitchen needs. Most homeowners prefer to buy a ready made kitchen island since they are the easiest and fastest way rather than designing their own. Choosing this option will not only save time but could also save some cash. With so many different features and styles available, they usually go for the best looking design which they thought complements their kitchen perfectly. However, not every island can give what the kitchen and its homeowner needs as it usually lacks something in which they failed to identify immediately. The result is either they customize the island to make it functional or buy another set and return the previous one.

There are a lot of advantages of building your own kitchen island since you have total control to include the features and design that you like. But before you start creating your own island, there are some things to consider in determining the design and how to make it effective.

1. The Area – Some homeowners tend to overlook this basic factor and it sometimes leads to overhauling the entire kitchen plan. Since the main purpose of the island is to have additional area and workspace, miscalculating the kitchen’s area could become serious trouble. The length of the kitchen countertop will determine the length of the island’s countertop, the number of cabinets and drawers needed, and the size of the whole island.

2. Function and Purpose – Another major factor to consider is the island’s purpose and role for your kitchen. The kitchen island serves each family differently and not every household is using the island as a breakfast table, or as a food preparatory table, or as an additional cooking area. Decide carefully and intelligently what will be the main purpose of your island.

3. Costs – Money plays a vital role and it must always be included in your planning. Decide which fixtures are truly necessary to avoid unnecessary expenses. If you will use sinks, gas stoves, and ovens, you may need a kitchen overhaul to accommodate them while creating a new set of water and gas connections. Also, be a little imaginative and creative so that you can replace expensive materials with much cheaper ones that can also be effective and durable.

Creating an effective customized kitchen island needs a lot of serious planning and decision making. The things above are just some of many more factors to analyze before deciding to create your own design. You must always remember that the most important thing is not by the way it looks, but how effective it will become for your family.

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Have a look for additional ideas about building a kitchen island by visiting http://www.kitchenislanddesignstips.com

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Montana Lodge Pine Kitchen Island $496 Montana Lodge Pine Kitchen Island

Kitchen Island $1476 -This elegant yet resourceful ready-to-assenble kitchen island features two pull-out cutting boards that hide away in pockets underneath the tabletop. -Two large capacity drawers with full extension glides mean that kitchen storage no longer requires getting on the floor. -Your most used kitchen items will fit nicely in the open storage area. -Three-inch locking casters allow you to mobilize this island within your kichen, or lock it in place. -The 2″ thick top features beautiful Roman Ogee routed edge. -Oil rubbed bronze hardware accents the oil finished hardwood. -Made from Northeastern hardwood in the USA.

Heart of the Kitchen Island $475 With a stylish design and strong function this heart of the kitchen island features a 1� thick hardwood top. It is finished with oil to provide years of use and large drawers and large cabinets. This item is made in the USA

The Apron Ladies Designs ALMAN A Man In The Kitchen! $9 The Apron Ladies Designs ALMAN A Man In The Kitchen!

Toddler Island Kitchen $92.4 Two-Sided Fun Our adorable Toddler Island Kitchen set will surely get your creative little one cookin up a storm Its all so real looking that youll want to whip up something yourself too Guaranteed to keep her imagination occupied for hours with fun grown-up yet safe play

Americana Black Kitchen Island $715 Home Styles Americana Kitchen island is constructed of solid hardwoods and engineered woods with a rich multi step black finish. -Antique pewter hardware -Accessibility from both sides. -Easy glide large pass through drawer. -Raised detail cabinet doors on each side for easy access. -Open storage with an adjustable shelf. -Size: 42W x 24D x 36H. -Please note accessories are not included.

White Kitchen Island $1105 Home Styles Kitchen Island is constructed of solid hardwoods and engineered wood with a rich multi step white finish. -Distressed oak finished top. -Antique nickel hardware. -Easy glide storage drawer. -Raised detail cabinet doors with adjustable shelves inside. -Open storage on each end with an adjustable shelf. -Size: 49.75W x 26.5D x 36.5H. -Please note accessories are not included. -36.5″D when drop-leaf is up. -Assembly required

Cottage Oak Kitchen Island $1105 Home Styles Kitchen Island is constructed of solid hardwoods and veneers with a rich multi step distressed oak finish. -Oak finished top. -Antique brass finished hardware. -Easy glide storage drawers. -Raised detail cabinet doors with adjustable shelves inside. -Open storage on ends with an adjustable shelf. -Size 49.75W x 26.5D x 36.5H. -Please note accessories are not included. -Assembly required.

Black Kitchen Island $1105 Home Styles Kitchen Island is constructed of solid hardwoods and engineered wood with a rich multi step black finish. -Distressed oak finished top. -Antique pewter hardware. -Easy glide storage drawers. -Raised detail cabinet doors with adjustable shelves inside. -Open storage on each end with an adjustable shelf. -Size: 49.75W x 26.5D x 36.5H. -Please note accessories are not included.

Central Park Kitchen Island $799 Central Park Kitchen Island is constructed of hardwood solids and veneers in a multi-step natural autumn blush finish. Features include two utility drawers for storage, two doors that open to storage area with two adjustable shelves for organization, and drop down breakfast bar for additional counter space. Size 48 w 26.75 d 36 h (depth extends to 36.75 when breakfast bar is extended). distinctive Brushed nickel hardware.

Traditions Cherry Kitchen Island $861 Traditions Kitchen Island is constructed of hardwood solids and hardwood veneers in a rich multi-step Cherry finish. Features include two doors that open to storage with two adjustable shelves, two utility drawers for added storage, and drop down breakfast bar for additional counter space. Other decorative features include square recessed panel doors, scalloped profiled edged top, and wooden scroll corbels. Size: 48w 26.25d 36 h (depth extends to 36 when breakfast bar is extended.

Linea Espresso Wood Kitchen Island $194 Rich with modern styling, this wooden kitchen island features a deep espresso finish. Use it for organization or pair it with matching stools (Bellacor item 81879) to create a stylish dining area.

Heart of the Kitchen Island with Drop Leaf $526 With a stylish design and strong function this heart of the kitchen island features a 1� thick hardwood top. It is finished with oil to provide years of use and large drawers and large cabinets. It has a drop leaf for extra workspace in the kitchen. This item is made in the USA. Please note accessories are not included.

White Granite Kitchen Island $445 This high quality mobile cabinet features a solid 1.75� thick butcher block top with real granite (12″x12″) inset and offers tons of storage. Granite is the hardest stone on earth. It will not scratch, discolor with age and is resistant to heat. This ideal cutting surface is perfect for baking. The non-stick surface would delight even professional pastry chefs. Rolling dough has never been easier. Carve, with confidence the largest turkey, slab of beef or rack of lamb. Slice, dice or julienne fresh fruit and vegetables. Compact, mobile and efficient our Kitchen Island is a must in every kitchen. Constructed from durable, easy to clean, stain resistant, melamine laminated particle board it incorporates highly popular beadboard panels and doors. The 3 cubby drawers are interchangeable with the 3 cubby holes. You choose the configuration. Large storage area behind the front door is right next to an open compartment ideally suited to large serving trays. The rear of the cabinet doubles as a kitchen pantry. It features a built-in paper towel holder over twin swing-out pocket doors. Great for canned goods, spices etc. Wooden dowels provide non-slip security. Long utensils including barbeque knives and tongs may be stored inside out of the way on 3 handy hooks. Not one but 2 wooden towel holders are at the ready. The matching wooden apron adds style and hides the 4 dual track casters that add mobility to the Granite Kitchen Island. Measures 35″ high x 24″ square. Weighs a little over 100 lbs. Easy assembly required. Made in the USA. Granite color may vary.

Play All Around Kitchen Island $584.99 This pre-school height kitchen island is an oasis for make believe. One side offers a white board message center cooktop and oven. The second side has an open easy-access microwave. The unit includes strong colorful handles and round knobs; new top-to-bottom hinges; wider gaps between the frame and doors and plenty of storage. Kitchen is 36W x 36H x 25D.

Americana Cottage Oak Kitchen Island $715 Home Styles Americana Kitchen Island is constructed of solid hardwoods and veneers in a rich multi step distressed cottage oak finish. -Weathered bronze finished hardware. -Accessibility from both sides. -Easy glide large pass through drawer. -Raised detail cabinet doors on each side for easy access. -Open storage with an adjustable shelf. -Size 42W x 24D x 36H. -Please note accessories are not included.

Traditions White and Cherry Kitchen Island $861 Traditions Kitchen Island is constructed of hardwood solids and engineered woods in a rich multi-step White & Cherry finish. Features include two doors that open to storage with two adjustable shelves, two utility drawers for added storage, and drop down breakfast bar for additional counter space. Other decorative features include square recessed panel doors, scalloped profiled top, and wooden scroll corbels. Size: 48w 26.25d 36 h (depth extends to 36 when breakfast bar is extended.

Bamboo Kitchen Island with Stainless Steel Top $675 -Natural bamboo frame construction w/ stainless steel top. -With 2 storage cabinets and 2 pull-out drawers, this island is a great addition to your kitchen. -Knife block and towel bar for your convenience. -Casters for mobility.

Richland Royal Bronze Two-Light Island Light $289 This island pendant features alabaster glass shades with contrasting Royal Bronze shade rings that match the elegant frame�s finish. Graceful balance and elegant proportions will dress up a kitchen island or nook. Includes three 12-inch and one 6-inch stem segments to customize the length according to ceiling height. A swivel ceiling adapter which accommodates sloped ceilings is also included. Takes two 100-watt bulbs (sold separately). See the entire Richland family to create a consistent theme of beautiful lighting throughout your home. Dolan Designs offers the finest styles and finishes available in home lighting today, allowing you to create a distinctive look for your home without sacrificing affordability. Simple, clean and classic designs to complement a wide variety of decorating styles are the hallmarks of Dolan Designs. -Alabaster Glass -6 ft. of wire -Canopy Size: 1 1/4″ H x 6″ W

Richland Bolivian Two-Light Island Light $289 This island pendant features caramelized glass shades with contrasting Bolivian finish shade rings that match the elegant frame’s finish. Graceful balance and elegant proportions will dress up a kitchen island or nook. Includes three 12-inch and one 6-inch stem segments to customize the length according to ceiling height. A swivel ceiling adapter which accommodates sloped ceilings is also included. Takes two 100-watt bulbs (sold separately). See the entire Richland family to create a consistent theme of beautiful lighting throughout your home. Dolan Designs offers the finest styles and finishes available in home lighting today, allowing you to create a distinctive look for your home without sacrificing affordability. Simple, clean and classic designs to complement a wide variety of decorating styles are the hallmarks of Dolan Designs. -Caramelized Glass -6 ft. of wire -Canopy Size: 1 1/4″ H x 6″ W

Richland Satin Nickel Two-Light Island Light $289 This island pendant features alabaster glass shades with sleek Satin Nickel shade rings that match the elegant frame’s finish. Graceful balance and elegant proportions will dress up a kitchen island or nook. Includes three 12-inch and one 6-inch stem segments to customize the length according to ceiling height. A swivel ceiling adapter which accommodates sloped ceilings is also included. Takes two 100-watt bulbs (sold separately). See the entire Richland family to create a consistent theme of beautiful lighting throughout your home. Dolan Designs offers the finest styles and finishes available in home lighting today, allowing you to create a distinctive look for your home without sacrificing affordability. Simple, clean and classic designs to complement a wide variety of decorating styles are the hallmarks of Dolan Designs. -Alabaster Glass -6 ft. of wire -Canopy Size: 1 1/4″ H x 6″ W

Traditions Cherry Kitchen Island and Two Bar Stools $1153 Traditions Kitchen Island is constructed of hardwood solids and hardwood veneers in a rich multi-step Cherry finish. Kitchen Island features include two doors that open to storage with two adjustable shelves, two utility drawers for added storage, and drop down breakfast bar for additional counter space. Other decorative features include square recessed panel doors, scalloped profiled top, and wooden scroll corbels. Size: 48w 26.25d 36 h (depth extends to 36 when breakfast bar is extended. Bar Stools are constructed of solid hardwood and features include decorative back, contoured seat and foot rest for added comfort. Seat Height 24�

Toddler Kitchen Island $152 Toddlers will love this downsized unit, made just for them! Complete with oven, stove top, microwave, sink and washer. Features include turning knobs and write on/wipe off message board.

Antique Walnut Kitchen Island $183 -Table features drawer at each end. -Solid wood construction -Antique Walnut Finish

Guidecraft 97260 Toddler Kitchen Island $92.4 Realistic detail and eye-catching colors add to the fun of this wonderful new Guidecraft kitchen collection Use individually or in a grouping Crafted from hardwood all units have rounded corners and smooth edges for safety A roomy freezer compartment i

Espresso/Chrome Three-Piece Kitchen Island Set $497 -Includes 2 stools and 1 island -Stools: 13.75″W x 22.75″H – Table measures: 35 1/2″W

Aspen Rustic Cherry Kitchen Island $1005 Create ambiance with a perfect balance of warmth and style with the Aspen Collection. Mahogany solids and cherry veneers are warmed with a multi-step Rustic Cherry finish while recessed door panels, a profiled edge top, and bold molding detail draw the eye deeper in. Storage function can be found in the four storage drawers and a storage cabinet with one adjustable shelf but what makes this island really unique is the hidden sliding mechanism connected to the back two posts. The mechanism provides easy mobility and independent movement of the two posts for expansion of the breakfast bar. Either with the breakfast bar closed or in use, this piece has a polished look by being consistently styled on both the approach and working sides. With the breakfast bar extended, the top surface depth expands from 26.75″ to 39″.

Thursday Island DR-TB40P51AW-M Black & Red Floral Dress $29 Go bohemian chic with designs by Thursday Island.

Monarch Antique White Sanded Distressed Kitchen Island $1096 The Monarch Kitchen Island blends upscale design with state-of-the-art functionality. Stylish design features include a solid hardwood, distressed Oak finished top with profiled edges; framed side and back panels; and a multi-step, Antiqued White sanded and distressed finish over hardwood solids and engineered wood. Functional elements include two storage drawers and a storage cabinet with four adjustable shelves. What makes this island really unique is the hidden sliding mechanism connected to the back two shaped and turned posts. The mechanism provides easy mobility and independent movement of the two posts for expansion of the breakfast bar. The 15.5″ breakfast bar extends the top surface from 25″ to 40.5″. Either with the breakfast bar closed or in use, this piece has a polished look by being consistently styled on both the approach and working sides.

Green Street Designs Sea Island (Women’s) – Moss $99.95 A stylish straw handbag from Green Street Designs that is a must have this season! Designed with a natural cotton fabric lining, a top zipper entry, a zippered interior pocket, and cell phone and iPod pockets.

Amazing Designs ADC 102J Italian Kitchen Embroidery Designs $29.99 Who knew an embroidery design collection could be so delicious? These embroidery designs were inspired by the tastes of Italy. From wine and pasta to fresh tomatoes and cheese, each design will be a treat for any project.

3-Piece Kitchen Island Set with 2 Rush Seat Stools $335 Kitchen Island table features one drawer at each end of table. Two – 24-Inch Rush Seat Stools come fully assembled made of solid wood and rattan. Ship in 2 boxes

3-Piece Kitchen Island Set with 2 Saddle Seat Stools $318 Kitchen Island table features one drawer at each end of table. Two – 24-Inch Saddle Seat Stools for extra comfort made of solid wood. Ship in 2 boxes. Some assembly required.

Farmhouse Weathered Oak Center Island Table $760 -Storage Shelves on Kitchen Island. -Please note chairs are not included.

Farmhouse Weathered Oak Center Island Table with Chairs $1408 -Storage Shelves on Kitchen Island. -Nylon Chair Glides. -Weathered Rustic Surface.

Traditions White and Cherry Kitchen Island and Two Bar Stools $1153 Traditions Kitchen Island is constructed of hardwood solids and engineered woods in a rich white/ cherry multi-step finish. Kitchen Island features include two doors that open to storage with two adjustable shelves, two utility drawers for added storage, and drop down breakfast bar for additional counter space. Other decorative features include square recessed panel doors, scalloped profiled top, and wooden scroll corbels. Size: 48w 26.25d 36 h (depth extends to 36 when breakfast bar is extended. Bar Stools have solid hardwood construction and features include decorative back, contoured seat and foot rest for added comfort. Seat Height 24�

Cross Creek Pine Kitchen Island $647 -American wrought iron towel rack.

Alexander Three-Light Kitchen Island $439 Caramel art glass accented with graceful curving arms bring richness and warmth to this versatile collection. -Textured Caramel Shade

Russian River Pine Kitchen Island $730 -Reclaimed wine staves for wine storage. -Large bottom shelf.

Americana Antique White Sanded Distressed Kitchen Island $707 Step into a comfortable surrounding that is Americana. Rustic design elements are apparent in the strong lines of the raised panel doors and hand-applied, multi-step Antiqued White sanded and distressed finish over hardwood solids and engineered wood. A distressed oak finished top and matching oak finished knobs complete the look. Featuring a storage cabinet with accessibility from both sides; a large, easy-glide pass-through drawer; and open storage shelves, this island is not only stylish but functional from both sides. Assembly required.

The Complete Kitchen Garden: An Inspired Collection of Garden Designs and 100 Seasonal Recipes $8.99 The Complete Kitchen Garden is an inspiring collection of garden designs and recipes for the home gardener and cook. Based on the seasonal cycles of the garden, each chapter provides a new way to look at the planning stages with themes and designs such as “the salad lover’s garden,” “the heirloom maze garden,” “the children’s garden,” and “the organic rotation garden.” More than 100 recipes featuring the food grown in each specific garden encompass a full range of soups, salads, main course savory dishes, and desserts, as well as condiments and garnish to dress up the plate.

Long Island $20.97 Pepp new window for tired! From now on you can now instantly boring windows in the living room, kitchen, hallway or bathroom convert into a real eye-catcher. Enchant your windows with our motif Long Island”! Attention! You get the window print like the general view (picture 2). If you wish to see this side from the outside, but you want to place the print from the inside on your window, so please choose the option “mirror inverted”. ”

Revel Designs RDP1 Hooded Towel & Fire Island Carry-all Pattern $12 Let the Hooded Towel become your signature gift with these easy to follow instructions. Great for infants to elemtary!rn rnMake the Fire Island Carry-All to compliment or contrast with the Hooded Towel. Function meets style with the overall buckle straps and 3 oversized, but organized, pockets.

Monarch Antique White Sanded Distressed Kitchen Island with Granite Top $1322 The Monarch Kitchen Island blends upscale design with state-of-the-art functionality. Stylish design features include a solid hardwood, distressed Oak finished top with profiled edges and a black granite inset; framed side and back panels; and a multi-step, Antiqued White sanded and distressed finish over hardwood solids and engineered wood. Functional elements include two storage drawers and a storage cabinet with four adjustable shelves. What makes this island really unique is the hidden sliding mechanism connected to the back two shaped and turned posts. The mechanism provides easy mobility and independent movement of the two posts for expansion of the breakfast bar. The 15.5″ breakfast bar extends the top surface from 25″ to 40.5″. Either with the breakfast bar closed or in use, this piece has a polished look by being consistently styled on both the approach and working sides.

Great Notions 1576 Kitchen Bears Embroidery Designs Multi-Formatted CD $39.99 This is a Multi-Formatted CD you must have a reader writer box or a method of pulling the designs from your computer to your embroidery machine.

Olde Bronze Island Pendant $408 Make a striking style statement with this sleek fixture. It boasts crisp curves in a rich olde bronze finish that showcases the light umber glass handsomely. A superb way to illuminate a kitchen island or pool table, this piece is worthy of notice. Please note that it includes 91″ of extra lead wire.

P4113-81: Renovations Island Pendant $332 Make everyday tasks a breeze with this fabulously functional fixture. It boasts a look of casual elegance with a forged bronze finish to complement the superb etched glass shades. A great lighting choice over a kitchen island, pool table, or other workspace, this piece is a truly wise investment. Please note that it includes 75″ of chain.

Walton Square Island Pendant $1084 Illuminate your dining table, kitchen island or billiard table with this exquisite art glass pendant. Noble appeal resonates from the scrolling art glass design while the piece is finished with a Tannery Bronze finish for depth and beauty. Includes 101� of extra lead wire.

North Port Island Pendant $258 Adjust the height of this trestle pendant to achieve functional elegance. The simple design of this fixture is enhanced by the brushed nickel finish while the pair of alabaster glass bowls suspends to provide brilliant lighting over your kitchen island, pool table or dining table. Includes 6� and 12� stem sections, for an overall height up to 43″.