Hi Eva, the short answer is: Yes you can, if that is what you want. I often make and install wood (including black walnut) countertops for families, and they work very well. Undermount sinks are quite beautiful set off by the end grain around the opening. Here is some guidance on on them. First, even though they are butcher block, use a cutting board. Accumulation of knife marks directly on your countertop is unpleasant. Both the top, and bottom surfaces must be finished before installation with a penetrating marine tung oil (such as Waterlox), or for maximum water resistance and durability, WEST system epoxy (WEST epoxy is the finish I use for wooden countertops in frat houses, and kitchens of professional chefs that I serve). However, Waterlox is sufficient for most families, and it is easy to maintain. In addition, all holes for faucets and such must be sealed with the same system. Butcherblock from a reputable maker, such as John Boos, is a good way to go. Junk wood masquerading as butcherblock from Lumber Liquidators or IKEA is prone to expensive problems, and customer support is via "call center in India", if available at all. Finally, a mix of corian and butcherblock can work quite well. It is important to be careful of "too much wood" syndrome, especially if you have wood floors, and cabinetry also.

Yes I agree the extension of the block surface could be good. Room to put your legs under but still with the advantage of seeing the lovely wood work but I would like to use the wood block if possible as well. Any other suggestions ladies would be great. The is table height now. It measures 1.5m long x 0.7wide. I use it now as a chopping block and love its rustic appeal and thick surface. I am moving to a smaller home and will probably have to leave my beautiful square wooden table behind. It wont fit. I am hoping the block can be adapted for one or two to dine at informally. Any more visitors I would ue an outdoor setting. I am thinking custom made cube seats x 3 covered with faux cow hide or similar would suit the décor.

We see most high end designers using quartz or other stone on the perimeter and then wood countertops on the island. Having the wood as the centerpiece gives the feeling of a table or a place to gather around. Plus, wood is physically warmer on winter mornings, so if your going to have seating at the island it's nice not to need long sleeves to lean against it like you would with quartz! (It's those kind of details that I never think of till it's too late so I hope it helps you, too.) Be sure to look into the finish on your wood countertop because it will need to be waterproof. Our wood countertop finish (custom Waterlox) is waterproof and food safe which is why sinks are no problem at all. And it has the same recommended maintenance as quartz, so you can use the same cleaning products. I've attached photo examples that sound like what your looking for from our customers who did stone perimeters with our wood tops on the island. Here's a link to Why It's Waterproof: http://www.craft-art.com/why-craft-art-wood-countertops-are-waterproof/ Good luck with your project! (Design credits photo #1 @Karr Bick) (Photo Credits #2 @K. Smith - homeowner) (Design credits photo #3 @Classic Cabinetry, TN)

I had butcher block everywhere in my last house and loved it the person who bought the house still has it now and it is 15 yrs. old I love it because no matter what happens you just sand lightly and re oil this is a pic of the kitchen when it was about 8 yrs. old.