The Kitchen Island

The untreated timber

timber pieces glued together after planing--3 1/2 inches thick

Newel post legs 

Sealing the top and painting the legs

The finished island 

Wood island and soapstone counters

The island in our kitchen is one of my favorite elements in the kitchen design.  It was built by Joel's carpenters Rob and Andy and it is made from old timber salvaged from a mine near Boulder.   It's a great size, 7x3, and has become the heart of the kitchen.  There are endless options in designing a kitchen island.   At first, all I  knew was that I wanted something unique for the space.   Once I confirmed that the island did not need to hold more cabinetry, we were freed to imagine something more furniture-like.    After many discussions and an initial design of a farm table on casters, Joel came back to us offering the douglas fir timbers.   At first glance they looked pretty rough, but after a week long process of planing and sanding and gluing and sealing, they turned into something very elegant and refined.    The thickness and durability of the wood is also a nice contrast to the more delicate soapstone counters in the kitchen. Immediately, the island has become more than just a large surface in the kitchen.  It's a prep surface for cooking; a homework and craft project station for the kids; our everyday dining table; and a gathering spot for parties.  I imagine that  it will become one of the most used and functional piece of furniture that we will ever own--and perhaps the most original.