A kitchen island is a fantastic addition to any kitchen, providing extra space for food preparation, dining, and storage. However, the cost of installing a new island can be prohibitive for many homeowners. Fortunately, there are several DIY kitchen island ideas that are both affordable and stylish, making them perfect for enhancing your kitchen space without breaking the bank. Whether you have a small kitchen, and need a little extra countertop space, or you’re looking to transform your kitchen design with a large island, these beautiful and practical ideas can help you get the extra counter space you need.

1. Repurpose a Dresser or Console Table

One of the best kitchen island ideas on a budget is repurposing an old piece of furniture, like an old dresser or sofa table. This DIY project can add instant personality and functionality into your kitchen. Start by choosing a console table, sofa table, or dresser that fits the size of your kitchen. You can add a new countertop, such as butcher block or prefab laminate countertop, to create a durable food prep area. Paint the dresser in a bright color to give your kitchen a vibrant look. This is not only a cost-effective option but also a great way to recycle old furniture.

kitchen island made from console table

Credit: HGTV

2. Use Base Cabinets for a Custom Island

Using base cabinets is a great way to construct your own kitchen island. You can purchase new unfinished wood cabinets from home improvements stores, or buy used base cabinets from a salvage yard to keep costs down. Arrange the cabinets to fit your kitchen layout and secure them together. Top them off with a new countertop of your choice, and paint them to match your existing kitchen cabinets for a seamless look. You can also paint them a different color for a bold contrasting look.

3. Convert a Dining Table

Converting a dining table or other small table into a freestanding island is another great option for your kitchen. This can be as simple as adding caster wheels to the legs of the table to make it mobile and a bit taller, and sliding some bar stools up for seating. You can also consider adding open shelving underneath or hooks around the edges to hang utensils and towels. This idea is particularly good for those who need a flexible space that can double as a breakfast bar or kitchen table.

converting a dining table into a kitchen island

Source: Zevy Joy

4. Build with Industrial Shelving Units

Creating a kitchen island from industrial shelving units is an excellent option for a modern, open-plan kitchen. These units are typically made from durable materials like stainless steel and can be found at most hardware stores. Assemble the shelving unit according to your space requirements and add a wooden or stainless steel top. The open shelving can be used to store pots, pans, and other essentials, making everything easily accessible and giving your kitchen a fabulous industrial look.

industrial shelf unit for kitchen island

Source: VASAGLE ALINRU (via Amazon)

5. Craft from a Kitchen Cart

For those looking for small kitchen island ideas, consider starting with a kitchen cart. Kitchen carts come in various sizes and styles, and many include features like drawers and towel bars, making them a good idea for additional storage and work surface. Enhance the cart by adding a custom top or painting it to match your kitchen’s decor. The mobility of a kitchen cart also means you can move it out of the way when it’s not needed, making it perfect for very small spaces.

kitchen cart island

Source: Wayfair

6. Smart Style with Bookcases

Another cool idea for a kitchen island design is to use bookcases. A single sturdy piece can be modified for a chic open shelving design, or you can use two bookcases at either, showcasing your cookbooks, with a butcher block countertop on top. This idea is perfect if you have an old bookshelf lying around, and it’s an easy DIY project to create a functional new kitchen island. 

kitchen island made from bookshelves

Source: Pinterest

These inexpensive kitchen island ideas prove that you don’t need a large budget to enhance your kitchen functionality and style. With a little creativity and DIY spirit, you can create a unique and practical kitchen island that meets your needs and enhances the look of your home and kitchen.