How to Install Kitchen Peninsula Cabinets Without a Wall

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Things You'll Need

  • Pencil

  • Screw gun

  • 1-½-inch screws

  • 2-inch screws

  • Cabinets

  • Kickplate

  • Countertop

Installing kitchen peninsula cabinets without a wall to serve as a guide can be challenging. However, the end result is a kitchen that has much more work and storage space—which is generally in short supply in most kitchens. Peninsula cabinets are cabinets that project into the room, are open on three sides and remain connected to the base cabinets. They can be a functional addition to many kitchens with adequate floorspace.

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Step 1

Choose the cabinets. Make sure your order includes a finished panel for the backside, which is not generally standard with most cabinets. Find out if you need to order a kickplate to set the cabinets on or if they have an integrated kickplate. The kickplate is the area at the base of a cabinet that is set in from the cabinet. Some come integrated as part of the cabinetry and some are a separate piece altogether. Order cabinet countertops that are finished on both sides and the end. Avoid ordering countertops that have an integrated backsplash.

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Step 2

Line up cabinets to see how they feel in the room. Make adjustments for placement before you've attached cabinets to the floor. Work with the cabinets until you like the line and how they fit within the space. Most peninsula cabinets are installed at a 90 degree angle, though there is no hard and fast rule.

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Step 3

Mark the space on the floor where you want to install the peninsula cabinets. Make sure the cabinets are level and lined up correctly. Use shims if necessary to level the cabinets. Attach kickplate to the floor at joists with 2-inch screws. Attach cabinets to kickplate if needed by setting the cabinet on top of the kickplate base and screwing into the base with 1-½-inch screws.

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Step 4

Have countertops installed by professionals. Leave off the interior shelves, doors, and knobs until the countertops have been installed to protect them for incidental damage. Once the installation of the countertops is complete, you can attach shelves, doors and knobs to put the finishing touches on the kitchen peninsula.

Tip

Always double-check measurements to avoid making a mistake—especially with expensive cabinetry and countertops that are not easily corrected once cut. Double-check that cabinets line up properly, since there is no wall to serve as a guide for the installation process.

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