How to Turn a Bookshelf into a Kitchen Island

See how I transformed an old bookshelf into a kitchen island. Perfect for extra workspace and storage in a small space.

This post is the epitome of why I love a good DIY project. Repurposing old into new, being able to use my creativity, and saving money in the process is what it’s all about!

My taste in home décor changes from time to time, so I am always looking at ways to flip a piece I already have and try to make it fit a new style. I tend to let unused pieces sit in our basement for long periods of time. But before I get rid of them I play around with a few ideas.

Sometimes they work, sometimes they don’t. That’s just the name of the game! I always figure, what’s the harm in making a last ditch effort!?

This bookcase hadn’t seen the light of day in years. It was a good sturdy piece that I bought at Target so long ago. I had a few ideas for it, but didn’t have the perfect spot for it.

Then I had one of those ah-ha moments and hauled it upstairs to our kitchen, and bingo! The perfect fit for a little bookshelf kitchen island! And our kitchen sure needed it!

Supplies Needed for Bookshelf Kitchen Island

Affiliate links are provided below for your convenience.  For more information, see my full disclosure here.

• Bookshelf
• Primer (This is my go-to spray primer)
• Yardstick
• Drill
• 1/4in Plywood
• Saw (Love my Dremel Saw for smaller projects like this one!)
• Sandpaper
• Liquid Nails
• Clamps
• Caulk
• Paint
• Paint Brush or Paint Sprayer
• Wood Slab
• Wood Stain (This is the color I used)

Instructions for Bookshelf Kitchen Island

• I started by wiping down the bookshelf with a damp rag to remove dust, then used spray primer to prime the piece so the paint would stick better (especially since this bookshelf had parts that were slick laminate).

• Before I primed it, I didn’t know what my exact end look would be, but I ended up removing the back paneling of the bookshelf to create an open shelf look.

• To give the sides of the bookshelf some added character, I ended up going with a shiplap look.  I used 1/4in thick plywood that I measured to the size I wanted and cut with a saw, then sanded the edges smooth.

• Next, I used liquid nails and clamps to attach the shiplap to the sides and inside. I used nickels as spacers in between each piece of shiplap.

• After the plywood was glued on and secured, I caulked the edges to give it a smooth, clean finish.

• Next up, it was time to paint. I used my paint sprayer and white paint to get that flawless finish I was hoping for. Of course you don’t need a paint sprayer for this step, but it does make things much quicker and easier!

• For the top, I just cut a piece of wood and stained it with my favorite wood stain, then attached it to the top of the bookshelf with Liquid Nails.

Why Turn a Bookshelf into a Kitchen Island?

• Great for smaller kitchens.
• Provides extra storage and workspace.
• Saves money utilizing something you already have, rather than buying something new.
• Completely customizable to your needs and style.
• Can move around (you can even add wheels to the bottom).

I really enjoyed this easy DIY project. It made such a huge impact to our kitchen and its functionality. We use the island everyday for extra workspace and it just fits so nicely. It was meant to be!

Simular DIY Projects

• Guest Bedroom Armoire Makeover
• Farmhouse Desk
• Wooden Coffee Table Makeover
• Four Drawer Side Table
• Nursery Furniture Makeover

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