Custom Kitchen Islands

Make your kitchen space stand out with these unique custom kitchen island tips.
By: Caroline Shannon-Karasik

Just like a do-it-yourself craft, a custom-built kitchen island requires the know-how and a time investment, but the end result is a unique product. This, of course, also allows for a design that makes room-customizable features, including storage and counter space.

Sustainable Kitchen With Open Design

See All Photos

Shop This Look

Like any DIY project, it is important to first measure the space in which the kitchen island will be built. Allow room for moving about the kitchen, determine counter height and any storage spaces that you are seeking to include in the design. It is also important to consider how your countertop space will be used. Will you be using it primarily for food preparation? Do you plan on including a dining space with stools? Are you planning for a cooktop range? All of these factors will help you to decide what type of surface will work best for your kitchen island design.

If you are seeking a traditional island that has four sides and will placed at the center of the kitchen space, then it is fairly simple to purchase a set of cabinets that will fit in the designated space. Add drawer and cabinet handles, then attach the counter surface to the top of the cabinets and your project should be complete.

Many contemporary custom kitchen islands use repurposed items, like oversized shipping crates, bookshelves and desks. Consider using some of these materials in your design for a one-of-a-kind kitchen island that truly reflects your personal style.

Next Up

White Kitchen Island

White kitchen islands offer a crisp, clean surface—and with show-stopping effect.

Small Kitchen Island Ideas

Even small kitchen islands can make a big impact.

Antique Kitchen Islands

Bring an antique piece firmly into the 21st century by giving it a second life as an efficient and stylish kitchen island.

How to Build a DIY Kitchen Island on Wheels

Need some extra workspace in your kitchen? Build a rolling island for added functionality and style. One side stores a stand mixer, sheet pans, cutting boards and more, while the other side allows for extra seating. Perfect for small spaces, this portable kitchen island easily rolls out when you need it and neatly tucks away when you don’t.

How to Build a Grilling Island

Create an outdoor kitchen by nestling a gas grill into a custom-built, granite-topped island.

Updating Kitchen Cabinets

Updating kitchen cabinets transforms your kitchen into a gathering place for the whole family.

Custom Kitchen Cabinet Doors

Custom kitchen cabinet doors show off your unique personality and style.

Unfinished Kitchen Cabinet Doors

Get all the info you'll need on unfinished kitchen cabinet doors and learn how they can be successfully incorporated into your kitchen design.

Painting Kitchen Floors

Get tips for painting kitchen floors.

Painting Kitchen Ceilings

Get tips on painting kitchen ceilings.

Go Shopping

Get product recommendations from HGTV editors, plus can’t-miss sales and deals.

On TV

No Demo Reno

12pm | 11c

No Demo Reno

1pm | 12c

Home Town

6pm | 5c

Home Town

7pm | 6c
On Tonight
On Tonight

Home Town

8pm | 7c

Home Town

9pm | 8c

House Hunters

10pm | 9c

House Hunters

10:31pm | 9:31c

House Hunters

11pm | 10c

House Hunters

11:30pm | 10:30c

Home Town

12am | 11c

House Hunters

1am | 12c

House Hunters

1:30am | 12:30c

Home Town

2:59am | 1:59c

Home Town

4am | 3c

Home Town

5am | 4c

Follow Us Everywhere

Join the party! Don't miss HGTV in your favorite social media feeds.