Advantages
Butcher-block islands typically come as stand-alone work stations or carts with butcher-block countertops ranging from 2 to 16 inches thick. Other options include attaching a butcher-block table to a built-in island or incorporating a butcher-block surface into the countertop of a built-in island. It's a perfect place for the house sous chef to prep a meal and it also adds a furniture look to the kitchen.
Design Tips
Although maple is a common choice for butcher blocks, other hard woods such as walnut, cherry and teak work just as well and create more contrast with light-colored cabinetry.
