If you keep up with design trends, you've probably seen butcher blocks becoming a popular addition to kitchen plans. Are these portable, space-saving, and uniquely designed comebacks the new way to build a kitchen island?
In recent trends, kitchen island ideas mostly consist of beautiful built-in designs that seamlessly integrate with the rest of the kitchen cabinets. But as this year's trends move from uniform perfection to more eclectic styles, butcher's block is becoming increasingly favored.
So is a butcher block the new way to build a kitchen island? To find out if this freestanding alternative is really a good idea, we asked interior designers what they thought about this growing trend.
What is Butcher's Block?
(Image provided by Ellei Home/deVOL)
A butcher's block is a large, durable wooden board that was historically used by butchers to chop produce. Due to its durability, it is popular for kitchen islands and is the perfect material for food prep counters.
“Butcher's block is typically made by gluing or fusing pieces of wood together. Because of the strong grain direction, it is especially strong and durable when made from American or foreign hardwoods,” says Ballard. + explains Seth Ballard, AIA, principal at Mensua Architecture.
When a butcher's block is used as a kitchen island, it is usually a freestanding unit, and some have wheels so they can be moved. Open shelving is often added under the counter, and hardwood or metal are common materials used to construct the framework.
Is a butcher’s block kitchen island a good idea?
(Image credit: Plain English)
Whether you use a butcher block as a kitchen island depends on your interior design style. It tends to be suitable for kitchens with traditional or rustic style elements. That said, a kitchen island made from butcher block can create a beautiful focal point and bring personality to your plans.
“Over the years, butcher blocks were often replaced with small islands, and we're so happy to see them making a comeback. There's something really fun about movable furniture. Different options for different situations ” says Helen Parker, creative director at deVOL.
“If you're having a large gathering and need extra space to set up platters of food, use the Butcher Block to push the edges of the table, or if you need more surface area to plate your food, use the Butcher Block or move it to the countertop,” she suggests.
In addition to the portable benefits of butcher's blocks, the materials used to create the blocks have many practical benefits. “Using a butcher's block as an island is a great idea. This allows you to treat the island as more of a functional piece of furniture, freeing it from material monotony,” says interior designer Peter Dunham. say.
(Image courtesy of Marie Flannigan Interiors)
“With marble, granite, and other 'strong' stones that still make noise, you don't want to do much cutting. Butcher block material is made for this, making it a more attractive and comfortable surface for eating, serving, and even working on your laptop. ” he added.
Butcher's block kitchen islands are popular for more than just functionality. It's also incredibly visually appealing. “We always offer our customers a selection of butcher blocks with the understanding that they will be cut and used as cutting boards,” Seth says.
“In this case, we're giving you an example of what wood becomes over time with knife marks and patina,” he explains. This lived-in, second-hand look is part of Butcher's Block's enduring appeal, especially now that interior design trends are embracing “imperfect” spaces.
5 ideas for a butcher's block kitchen island
Whether you keep it simple with butcher's block legs, choose something portable, or add kitchen storage, these butcher's block kitchen islands are sure to give your space a new look.
1. Add wheels to make it portable
(Image credit: deVOL)
One of the features that makes a butcher's block so appealing is that it's smaller than a typical built-in kitchen island, so not only does it save space, but you also have the option to add wheels for transport. .
“When deVOL started, we were huge proponents of the butcher's block. Even if you don't have space for an island or prep table, you can always squeeze this into most kitchens. Chunky casters on the legs , so I can move this small prep table around the kitchen,” says Helen.
In this plan, casters are added to create a simple portable kitchen island, and the green paint color used on the island is combined with yellow cabinetry to create a farmhouse kitchen feel.
2. Create contrast with different wood grains
(Image credit: Ballard + Mensua Architecture)
A kitchen island made of butcher block is a unique feature, so it seems right to make it the focal point of the room. To do this, try introducing contrast between your island and the rest of your kitchen through style, color, and finish.
There are many ways to introduce contrast into your kitchen. “Try painting the surrounding cabinetry in a color that contrasts with the island, or contrasting it with the flooring,” suggests Seth. For example, a light or medium wood floor pairs well with a dark walnut top, and a maple top pairs well with a dark floor. ”
This kitchen is a perfect example, with white cabinetry that really lets the natural wood tones of the butcher block kitchen island shine.
3. Add additional storage
(Image credit: deVOL)
Choosing a butcher block for your kitchen island doesn't mean you have to compromise on storage space. While it may not offer the same amount of cabinet space as a built-in island, there are still ways to make the most of the extra space.
A common element found in butcher block islands is open shelving at the bottom, as in kitchen plans. A convenient space to store large kitchen items such as pots, pans, and large bowls that won't fit in a standard cupboard.
This butcher block has two deep drawers just below the counter, perfect for storing small kitchen items that you need easy access to but don't necessarily want on display.
4. Be multifunctional
(Image credit: Peter Dunham)
Like other styles of kitchen islands, installing a butcher's block provides multiple functions. When designing your ideal butcher block, consider both how it will function within your space and how you want it to function.
“In this kitchen, we created an island for easy movement. It can also function as a bar or an additional service area for clients to use when entertaining. A great-looking, flexible and functional kitchen option ,” Peter explains.
This butcher block's simple construction allows it to be used as additional space for food preparation, an intimate seating area, or as a standing bar when entertaining.
5. Mix materials for a more contemporary approach
(Image credit: deVOL)
Butcher's blocks are almost always made of wood and usually feel more traditional in design. While this will suit some people's tastes perfectly, for others it may not suit their design style.
A great way to make a butcher block kitchen island work in a more contemporary space is to carefully mix different materials. This allows you to create a beautiful ambiance in your space that combines old and new with a timeless and trendy feel.
This kitchen combines neutral wood on the island with surrounding countertops made of marble. Paired with dark blue cabinets, the two elements come together perfectly.
Interior designers say butcher's block is a new way to create an instant kitchen island. Versatile and aesthetic, they add charm and character to any kitchen plan, whether you're designing a large space or a more compact kitchen.
