Hi, I am looking for someone to critique my design for a kitchen island. I am fairly new to woodworking and was trying to create something that would be simple to build. I attached a zip file with the SketchUp drawing so hopefully someone can provide feedback and advice on this before i get started.
Thanks!
You have attached a .zip file. I do not know of any program on my computer that will open this without first saving it to my computer. That I am NOT going to do.
You should just attach each of the 4 files individually.
Unfortunately, the .skp file was not on the list for accepted file types for upload :thumbdown: so I had to upload it as a .zip file. I understand the hesitation to download an unknown file, although you would be safe to download a .zip file and run a virus scan before opening it if that is your concern. A .zip file is just a container for the files inside so you wouldn't be at risk until you open the zip file. I will also add pictures of the project to show there is no malicious intent... Thanks for the response!
Here is a picture of the Island Design maybe you could see enough to provide some feedback?
Most of us just export the jpg image of the design, and I know people here have attached sketchup drawings as I've opened them from here before. Either way, I'm not opening a .zip and I can't see the image you posted in your second post, for whatever reason. If/when I can see it, I'll be happy to provide my feedback.
Somehow I overlooked the .skp extension in the list. I think this should be the correct file type now... Thanks for the heads up!
I also tried to fix that picture, I am new to forums so hopefully it is working now. I used the "forum" code for a picture that is uploaded to imageshack.com
We have an introduction section where you can say a few words about yourself. If you fill out your profile in your "User Control Panel", you can list any hobbies, experience or other facts. You can also list your general geographical location which would be a help in answering some questions.
The island looks simple enough to make. What is your countertop?. You may possibly avoid using legs for the overhang, depending on the material for the top.
I would like to do a butcher block for the countertop so i don't see that being a problem with the legs. The legs are mostly for looks so i am open to suggestions on how to make this a better looking piece...
My other concern about this design is making sure it is structurally feasible and that the framing on the front face will be strong enough to allow for cabinet doors to be attached securely. I am pretty new to woodworking, I have designed and built a complete queen bed frame, and installed finish trim in my newly purchased home but that is about the extent of my experience.
I am planning on 40" x 70" for the cabinet and 42" x 72" for the countertop to leave a 1" overhang on all sides, and no cooktop just a solid countertop.
Looks like a good design! One tweak I'd do would to be to make some sort of space for your toes when you're standing at the cabinet side of the island.
Are you planning on being able to sit at the side with legs to eat? If so, a pet peeve of mine is overhangs that are too short, such that I can't get my legs underneath and have to lean forward to get over the counter. Didn't open your sketch - I see I have to upgrade my version - so I don't know how much overhang you have. Just a thought.
I've got 17" of overhang planned and the countertop will be the standard 36" height. Do you think that will be enough space for sitting at the side with the legs?
Personally, I'd put the "seated" height about 8 inches higher and use bar stools, rather than keeping it at 36". Something more akin to the attached. Other than that (which is of course personal preference) it looks pretty good to me.
My thinking is this...the island is going to take up alot of room so I think it should be as efficient as you can build it. Doors, drawers, pull outs/ or openings for baskets.
I am not sure what tools you have or your experience level is, but this could turn out pretty nice if you take your time. Heck you could piece together several standard base units and simply add the counttr top of your choosing. That way all you would need to do is assemble, paint/stain it.
Yeah I guess my goal is to make sort of a custom rustic looking island while trying to keep things simple. I have a miter saw / table saw / router and the hand tool basics, but my skills are definitely more toward the beginner stage and i don't want to get in over my head with intricate doors and drawers and things...
I also considered getting basic cabinets and doing a wood countertop but I think it will end up looking a lot more unique and give me some good practice building it this way.
I definitely like the idea of adding an outlet but i would like to run the wires inside the cabinet area and have the outlet on the side of the island which would be the least visible spot the way it will be oriented in my kitchen
Here is another picture with the extra 8 inches of height, I kind of feel like it will look funky with the 1" wall thickness for the rise. Any thoughts on a better way to do that?
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