When done correctly, a DIY island kitchen can be a great centerpiece for your kitchen. It also adds value to your house. It’s not difficult to get extra storage and countertop space. It is cheaper to build a kitchen island yourself if you are able to do some basic DIY. If you plan to install a dishwasher, sink or other appliances, you’ll need to hire a professional to get your kitchen up-to-code.

There are many DIY kitchen island plans available for free. These include different style or feature elements. The plans include step-by-step directions and material lists to help you build a custom island. You can build a kitchen island using stock cabinet and a countertop.

Size Considerations

You can easily modify plans for a kitchen isle to suit your needs. Your kitchen’s island size will depend on the space you have and your needs.

A typical island will be 36 inches high and have a surface area of 2 x 4 feet. The space between the island, or galley, and cabinets must be 42 inches. Standard size for the counter overhang is usually 1 1/2 inch. If you want to add seating, such as four stools along one side, then plan for at least 20-24 inches of countertop per stool.

You can get inspired by these 5 free kitchen island plans.

• Farmhouse Kitchen Island

  

  The large farmhouse island by Ana White has a lot of storage. There are two cabinets with shelves and open shelving. It also has a lot of drawers. It could be used as an entryway console, or to store items elsewhere in the home. This free kitchen island includes dimensions, materials and a list of tools, as well as directions, photos, and a photo.

   

• Wood Countertop Kitchen Island

  

  Ana White also designed this rustic yet modern kitchen island. The island has two shelves, a large drawer, and a wooden countertop. It can be painted or stained to match any kitchen style. Hardware can be used to match the existing hardware in your kitchen.

   

• Kitchen Island with Trash Storage

  

  This beautiful build by Shades of Blue interiors will make your kitchen island dreams a reality. This DIY kitchen island features open storage and a pull-out bin to hold a trashcan. This island is not only useful inside, but it would be great to use as part of an outdoor cooking so that there’s always a garbage can nearby the cooking area.

   

• DIY Butcher Block Kitchen Island

  

  Cherished bliss designed a functional but small kitchen island that has two cabinets, four storage drawers and a butcher-block counter. This is a great idea for a smaller space. The plan is free and includes a list of materials, a list of lumber to buy, a list of cuts, instructions, photos, diagrams and building directions. It also contains stepping-by-step instructions on how to build the kitchen island frame. DIYer claims that the instructions are much easier than it may seem. However, you should be careful to get your drawer measurements right.

   

• Kitchen Islands for Small Spaces

  

  A small kitchen does not mean that you cannot have an island. This free kitchen plan from mama Sarahs creates a functional, sized island to fit the small kitchen. It does all this for less than $50. The island gives you a little more space for counters and storage in the kitchen, without feeling crowded. The step-by-step directions and supply list are accompanied by color photos to make the build easy.