I used this desk that I got from Goodwill several years ago. The desk has a matching bookshelf that sits on top, but that shelf is in storage for now. Since the desk is a little shorter than a typical countertop, DH drilled holes in the bottom of the desk legs and installed rolling casters. I wanted ones that lock into place, but they weren't compatible with the desk legs. So far, I haven't had any problems with it rolling away.
We also added wood to the top to raise it a bit more, and also for aesthetics. At 34", the island is still a bit lower than the countertop, but since I'm short, it's just right for me. The wood we used was a stain-grade wooden shelf. We didn't want to mar the top of the desk, so the wood is held in place by the non-slip rubber grip stuff that you use to line cabinets with.
Since the back of the desk wasn't finished, we bought some beadboard to cover the back. I painted the stripes with leftover wall paint we already had. Now that I'm looking at this picture, I guess I should go back and paint the screw heads as well.I'm still looking for a shelf of some sort to put where the chair is supposed to go on the desk. I haven't found anything that fits the measurements yet, which leads me to think that I'll have another DIY project soon.
Considering we only spent $50, I'm pleased with how my kitchen island turned out. Much cheaper than a kitchen island from a store! When it's time for the island to go back to being a desk, I'll just pick up the wooden shelf, pull the caster out of the desk legs, and set the bookshelf back on top!
Super cute! Great idea! On our last kitchen island, I did chalkboard paint on the back so my kids could be entertained in the kitchen. I miss that chalkboard now!
ReplyDeleteI am so impressed! Really, that is such a beautiful island-- so much homier than a store-bought one!
ReplyDeleteI like the idea of chalkboard paint, too!
that is so awesome! super cute!
ReplyDeleteThat looks great! You all did a good job. :)
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