Butcher Block in Island: Yes or No?

11 years ago

My husband and I are renovating my childhood home before we move in. It is a farmhouse overlooking our family farm, so I'm trying to keep it rustic. In the kitchen we will have white cabinets with neutral granite tops and a faded brick backsplash. Our island will be a pop of color in a medium greenish-gray and I have my heart set on a butcher block countertop for just the island to compliment the wood floors and beams through the house. I think this will complete the rustic look. However, I'm hearing negative things about wood countertops regarding bacteria, wear and tear, and all sorts of other things. I am expecting the island to be our primary workspace in the kitchen, so I expect some wear and tear on the piece but I honestly think it will only enhance the farm feel. We also have a wooden island now in our current house which we've never had issues with, so I really don't see what the big deal is. Thoughts? Thanks in advance!

Sort by:Oldest

Comments (4)

PRO
Carolyn Albert-Kincl, ASID
11 years ago
It will be beautiful and useful. Take care of it as specified by the supplier. I recommend John Boos who supplied the butcher block for our small island and my desktop.
PRO
MARK IV Builders, Inc
11 years ago
Just keep a spray bottle of white vinegar handy to sanitize the wood and you will be just fine!
Related Professionals
Waterloo Interior Designers & Decorators · Pullman Interior Designers & Decorators · Ottawa Interior Designers & Decorators · Wilmington Architects & Building Designers · Concord Architects & Building Designers · Aiken Architects & Building Designers · Spartanburg Architects & Building Designers · Fort Worth Architects & Building Designers · Jackson Architects & Building Designers · Tampa Kitchen & Bathroom Designers · Lexington Kitchen & Bathroom Designers · Frederick Kitchen & Bathroom Designers · Gloucester Kitchen & Bathroom Designers · Plymouth Kitchen & Bathroom Designers · Colorado Springs Kitchen & Bathroom Designers
jhmarie
11 years ago
I use a mineral oil / wax combo made for butcher block. Spills just bead up and I have had no problem in 2 years. I do keep a row of tempered glass cutting boards along the prep side. If it did start to look bad, I can unscrew it and take it to my local cabinetmaker and have it run through his planer for a refresh - but I have never had to do that.

I think it will look great. Your own experience tells you it will work out well.
PRO
Inspired Interiors - Design. Build. Furnish.
11 years ago
Butcher block countertops are a great option as long as you willing to put the effort into them. The most important thing you can do for the counter is to keep it clean, wood absorbs stains a lot more quickly than other types of countertops. Also reapplying finishes over time will help protect it.