How to Build a Kitchen Island With Bookshelves

Kitchen islands get a lot of use. From eating areas, to storage space, to food preparation, a kitchen island can be a useful touch to any kitchen. However, kitchen islands can be expensive. If you love the thought of having a kitchen island, but hate the high price tag that comes with many islands, consider making one yourself. Making your own kitchen island with bookshelves will save you money while you create a useful kitchen necessity.

Things You'll Need

• Two short bookcases
• Screws
• Molding
• Finish nails
• Hammer
• Paint or stain and polyurethane
• Paintbrush
• Countertop of choice

Instructions

1. Place two short bookcases back to back. The bookcases should be the same size and shape.

2. Decide where to connect the two bookcases with screws. Because each type of bookcase is different, you may be able to screw the bookcases together at the base, top or middle. If you cannot find a good place to screw the bookcases together, you may need to reinforce the back of both bookcases with plywood first, at the reinforced area.

3. Add molding to the bookcases with finish nails and a hammer. Where you add molding to the bookcases is personal preference. However, it is important to add a small strip of molding to the area between the two bookcases. This will help the bookcases look like a single piece.

4. Paint or stain the bookcases with a paintbrush and latex paint. You should apply several coats of paint or polyurethane since the island will be an often used kitchen item.

5. Add a countertop of choice. Popular options may include laminate, tile, stone or wood.

References

• Ikea Hacker: Kitchen Island from Bookcase and Tabletop
• HGTV Kitchen Design: Goodbye Dresser, Hello Kitchen Island
• Today's House: Creating a Kitchen Island

Resources

• Ask the Builder