I'd add storage underneath. Stools do not require this much overhang, 12 inches is quite standard, and 15 is generous. The visually too large expanse hanging wide open at the end, tends to look extremely unfinished! If you plan stools on three sides of this overhang, a trimmed to match rectangular "box" beneath allowing 12/15 inches on all three sides, will look far better, and allow no knee knocking. If you don't believe it, sit comfortably at a dining table and mark the spot at the end of your knee. But know that you sit differently, more casually at a counter too. Thus a box, basically 24" x 18"......and in other words more storage: ) and another drawer base.

You could have a 1 1/2" square tube frame fabricated, mechanically fasten it to the cabinets, mechanically fasten them to the floor, and have your countertop fabricator make a drop edge that covers the frame.

You could make the frame from brushed stainless steel and expose it.

I don't really understand the size of the overhang on either side -- why do you want 6" of extra on the working side? and what do you accomplish with 24" on the sitting side? Jan's suggestions are good ones, or other structural advice above.

Presidio - we thought about a steel plate, but I like your idea of aluminum better. How thick of an aluminum plate would you suggest?

Jan - love the idea! And yes, we are always looking to gain storage! Do I risk snapping the quartz with a 15" overhang?

Joseph - not ruling this out...I still like the thought of a 'floating' surface - and the idea that I may be able to 'squeeze' four stools in and around the 24" overhang.

Stephanie - Thanks! My wife gets all the credit! The cabinets are Aspect Cabinets. Go check 'em out at: www.aspectcabinetry.com

ACM - the 6" provides a comfortable toe kick area on that end of the island; the 24" allows us to

squeeze four (4) stools around the end. Our family events are large at times!

Thanks ALL!

Hi Gary. We use 1/2" honeycomb aluminum. We install it in place of the plywood. Eliminates the need for legs, posts or corbels.

@Presidio Tile & Stone - what is the maximum area (rectangle) of quartz that could overhang using the aluminum honeycomb substrate? Thanks in advance!