Add a Kitchen Island for Convenience

Having an island countertop is very convenient and timesaving, particularly if you like to do some serious cooking.

You will gain storage area in drawers and cabinets below the island in addition to the additional countertop space. You may consider installing a two-element electric cooktop in the countertop that takes up little space. Joseph Hendrickson/Shutterstock

Dear James: I’m planning to remodel my kitchen to create more countertop workspace, and I think an island would help. What are some general DIY island-building tips?—Peggy C.

Dear Peggy: Having an island countertop is very convenient and timesaving, particularly if you like to do some serious cooking. Just think how many times you carry items from the range to the sink countertop and back. The island countertop will shorten the path and provide more overall workspace.