My Experience With Using A Console Table As A Kitchen Island
When I moved into my new apartment, I was disappointed to discover that the kitchen was lacking in counter space. As someone who loves to cook and entertain, I knew I needed to find a solution.
After doing some research, I came across the idea of using a console table as a kitchen island. At first, I was skeptical. Could a piece of furniture designed for a living room really work in a kitchen? But after seeing some examples online, I decided to give it a try.
What is a Console Table?
A console table is a narrow piece of furniture that typically sits against a wall. It’s often used as a decorative accent in living rooms, entryways, and hallways. Console tables come in a variety of styles and materials, from sleek and modern to rustic and reclaimed.
Why Use a Console Table as a Kitchen Island?
Using a console table as a kitchen island is a great solution for those who need extra counter space but don’t want to invest in a full-sized island. It’s also a good option for renters who can’t make permanent changes to their space.
Plus, a console table can add style and personality to your kitchen. You can choose a table that complements your existing decor or go for something bold and eye-catching.
Step-by-Step Guide for Using a Console Table as a Kitchen Island
Here are the steps I took to turn a console table into a functional kitchen island:
- Measure your space: Make sure the console table you choose will fit in your kitchen and leave enough room for you to move around it comfortably.
- Choose a table: Look for a console table that’s sturdy and has enough surface area for your needs. Consider the height of the table as well—if it’s too low, you may need to add risers to make it more comfortable to work on.
- Add wheels: If your table doesn’t already have wheels, you can easily add them to make it more mobile. This is especially helpful if you have a small kitchen and need to move the island out of the way when not in use.
- Secure the table: Once you’ve chosen your table and added wheels if necessary, make sure it’s securely anchored to the floor. You don’t want it moving around while you’re chopping vegetables!
- Add storage: Look for ways to add storage to your console table. You can hang hooks underneath for utensils, add baskets for produce or snacks, or even install a towel bar on the side.
- Dress it up: Finally, add some decorative touches to your console table to make it feel like a part of your kitchen. You can add a tablecloth or runner, display a vase of flowers, or even hang some artwork above it.
Top 10 Tips and Ideas for Using a Console Table as a Kitchen Island
Here are some tips and ideas to help you make the most of your console table kitchen island:
- Choose a table with a bottom shelf for extra storage.
- Add a cutting board to the top of the table for a dedicated chopping surface.
- Use a table with drawers to keep utensils and other small items organized.
- Paint or stain the table to match your existing kitchen cabinets.
- Add a towel bar to the side of the table for easy access to dish towels.
- Use a table with a drop leaf to create extra counter space when you need it.
- Hang pots and pans from hooks underneath the table.
- Add a wine rack to the bottom shelf for stylish storage.
- Use a table with a marble or granite top for a high-end look.
- Install a pendant light above the table for added task lighting.
Pros and Cons of Using a Console Table as a Kitchen Island
Like any solution, using a console table as a kitchen island has its pros and cons. Here are a few to consider:
Pros:
- Cost-effective: A console table is generally less expensive than a full-sized kitchen island.
- Easy to move: If you need to rearrange your kitchen, a console table on wheels can be easily moved out of the way.
- Adds style: A unique console table can add personality and style to your kitchen.
- Good for renters: If you’re renting your home, a console table can be a great way to add extra counter space without making permanent changes to the space.
Cons:
- Not as sturdy: A console table may not be as sturdy as a full-sized kitchen island.
- Limited storage: Depending on the table you choose, you may not have as much storage space as you would with a traditional island.
- May not match: If you’re looking for a seamless look in your kitchen, a console table may not match your existing cabinetry or countertops.
My Personal Review and Suggestion for Using a Console Table as a Kitchen Island
Overall, I’ve been very happy with my decision to use a console table as a kitchen island. It’s added much-needed counter space to my kitchen and has become a focal point of the room.
One thing to consider is the height of the table. I ended up adding risers to mine to make it more comfortable to work on. Also, make sure the table you choose is sturdy enough to handle the wear and tear of daily use.
If you’re looking for a cost-effective way to add extra counter space to your kitchen, I highly recommend giving a console table kitchen island a try!
Question & Answer and FAQs
Q: Can I use any console table as a kitchen island?
A: No, not all console tables will work as a kitchen island. Look for a table that’s sturdy and has enough surface area for your needs. You’ll also want to make sure it’s at a comfortable height for working on.
Q: Is it easy to add wheels to a console table?
A: Yes, adding wheels to a console table is a relatively easy DIY project. You can find furniture casters at most hardware stores and attach them to the bottom of the table with screws.
Q: How can I add extra storage to my console table kitchen island?
A: There are a variety of ways to add storage to your console table kitchen island. You can hang hooks underneath for utensils, add baskets for produce or snacks, or even install a towel bar on the side. You can also look for a table with drawers or a bottom shelf for extra storage.