kitchen design ideas with island

create your own custom kitchen island usinga simple shortcut. two simple stock cabinets serve as the coreof this island saving you some build time. using the detailed directions, start withthe baseframe, and assemble it using glue and screws. add the bottom, then the back,again, using glue and screws.now you can build the two plywood end panels, using stiles andrails to add some interest. on each panel, glue and nail the first stilein place, so the ends are flush with the panel, then add the rails and the second stile. besure to leave a 3-inch gap at the base where you'll add some trim later. when you attach the panels to the back andbase, make sure the back is nice and straight,

if it's bowed at all it could affect the fitof the cabinets later. add the trim pieces to the front of the island, then add two half-pilastersto create these rectangular columns for an area to tuck stools under. insert the cabinets and add cleats to thesides to support the shelves that span between the two units. angle the shelves to maneuverthem past the cabinet edges when you're putting them in place. add the center panels to thesides, and trim out all the way around the island using the base you choose. sand andfinish the piece, then top it off with a counter-top for an island that's customized to your tasteand space.