Butcher Block Countertop & Other Wood Counters: Go Beyond the Kitchen

It’s taken interior design by storm and we know we’ve mentioned it over and over: butcher block countertops look great as kitchen islands, full kitchen countertops and bathroom accents.

But, those beautiful wood countertops can be so much more than just a chopping block for food preparation. There are plenty of other creative uses out there, whether you’re looking to upgrade your home with more work space or just want a fun DIY project. Let’s dive into some inspiration!

Keep It Practical

Yes – the traditional, most common use of finger-jointed, plank or butcher block countertops is certainly (just as the name implies) kitchen countertops. But, there are several other uses that make a lot of sense. Let’s take a look.

1. Use It as a Workbench

If you love woodworking, finger jointed workbenches and butcher block tops can be a great addition to your shop.

They make excellent (and durable) options in a variety of ways. Workbenches, of course, are extremely useful. We like to pair our finger jointed tops with a Kreg Universal Workbench and dual locking casters. The tighter structure of edge grain and end grain butcher block products allow them to stand up to harsher conditions. We use them in our own shop, Studio 3B, where we’re constantly creating projects for inspiration.

When it comes to a shop or weekend warrior area in your garage, wood tops are also perfect for additional counter space. Just make sure you pick a durable type of wood – maple is our top suggestion.

2. Top Off a Desk or Craft Table

Take advantage of the durability that plank and butcher block counters offer to design your own desk. This type of DIY project is a great way to test your skills while creating a one-of-a-kind focal point in your home.

Many people who go this route choose a built-in design, identifying a corner or flat wall in a room dedicated to homework, computer areas, crafting or a laundry folding area.

3. Build Yourself a Mudroom Bench

Want to keep your entryway more organized? A mudroom bench is a great way to do it. And, it’s an easy DIY project that takes just a weekend to complete.

Whether it’s a stand-alone piece of furniture, a built-in, or a modification to an existing closet, a plank top or butcher block can provide a seating area tailored to your home.

*If you love the idea, but don’t know where to start, here are our free mudroom bench plans.

4. Make Your Own Cutting Board

Creating a cutting board is a terrific entry-level project that makes for a perfect gift. When planning for this type of cutting surface, be sure to use the edge grain (or end grain) if you plan to glue up pieces of wood on your own.

Also, make sure the surface remains food-safe by using mineral oil to condition the butcher block instead of sealing it with a finish. We suggest purchasing our maple hardwood tops due to their tight wood fibers.

5. Create a Dining Room Table with Bench Seating

More of a mid-level project, we love the idea of making your own hardwood table top with matching bench seating. Over the past couple of years, we’ve had the good fortune of working with Outdoor Channel’s Renovation Hunters, and this type of project has been done in several of the builds.

You can use plank hardwood countertops (which have the face grain exposed) or traditional butcher block – either way, the end result is a stunner.

The look and feel can be rustic or farmhouse chic, and makes the space feel complete with a touch of fun.

Design a Built-In for Your Kitchen

Take this suggestion one step further by designing a built-in table in the corner of your kitchen. This type of project will take a bit more measuring and skill, but the end result takes your kitchen to the next level.

6. Grilling Station on Wheels

This idea is a little more out there (let’s call it creative use for a wood countertop), but hear us out! Yes, wood surfaces in moist environments can be problematic, but if you have a safe, dry space for storage, you can wow guests when you roll this baby out for a barbeque or entertaining.

Don’t let something like this get wet (keep it out of the rain!) to lessen the likelihood of warping, and be sure to seal all six sides of the wood top. (Don’t leave it unfinished by only using a wood conditioner – use a polyurethane clear coat.) One to three coats of finish can be applied to the countertop.

Have Some Fun With It

Looking for some extra, fun, creative uses for your butcher block or plank top? Here are a couple of ideas.

1. Barroom Shuffleboard

Butcher block is an ideal playing surface for shuffleboards, especially when made out of maple. (Have you noticed a trend here?) This can be a mid- to high-level project, depending on the customization you’re looking for, but purchasing a finger jointed or butcher block countertop that’s already made takes numerous steps out of the DIY process.

2. Wood Stove Cover

Also referred to as a wooden noodle board, a wood stove cover is an entry-level DIY project. Grab yourself a plank top or join some S4S together (alder and oak wood types are popular choices) and get to work! If you’re making everything on your own, all you need are some glue, clamps, sandpaper and handles.

The fun thing about something like this is the ability to make it your own – customize it with your last name, initials, favorite design or just finish in a color that complements your kitchen.

Butcher Block Countertops: More Than Just a Kitchen Island

Sure – plank top and butcher block counters are great for taking your kitchen work surfaces and islands to the next level, but that’s not all they’re great for! Really, your imagination is the only limitation to using this versatile product.

Now that you have some inspiration, what are you waiting for? Go out and get to work on your next DIY butcher block project.