Holidays or food preparation time for a large gathering, when all the resources of the kitchen are in use, is when the need for more counter space, additional storage, another oven, or refrigerator, becomes obvious. The thoughts usually generated during this time, surround being able to afford a complete kitchen remodel.

Ultimately, remodeling may be the best solution for the home, but in the mean time, kitchen islands or a butcher block, in the existing kitchen, just may be an affordable expansion to counter space, and capacity needed for food preparation for a large gathering or holiday. The new components can be purchased easily and brought into service with little stress.

Portable islands are very effective, and can be a beautiful addition to a kitchen. They can be purchased to match the existing cabinetry, and counter tops, or they can be purchased as contrasting accent pieces. The beauty of portable kitchen islands is they add utility, and value to the home without the expense and headaches of remodeling the kitchen.

Of course adding a kitchen island to an existing kitchen, requires some restraint, and good judgment, regarding the unit most compatible with the existing kitchen. If necessary ask a professional, what would be the best solution, an island or a butcher block unit. Also a professional may suggest minor tweaks to the existing kitchen, that will prevent having the island, or butcher block looking like an after thought. A professional, or a friend with a good eye for color, can assist with choosing a kitchen island, that is painted rather than wood tone.

Some unexpected benefits of adding portable kitchen islands or a butcher block, include but are not limited to the following: Additional seating, and eating space. A portable buffet table for family gatherings, entertaining, and general use. They can be moved to any room for the holiday or gathering depending on the needs, and are also useful in large open areas to help define space.

Probably the best benefit of the Kitchen Island, is using it for a homework space while mom, or dad is in the kitchen. It provides the benefits, of easily keeping the child on task, while providing a venue for those wonderful times we spend with our children, and grand-children, just talking, and being in each others space. Time with Mom, Dad, Grandma, or Grandpa in the kitchen at holiday or any time provide children with a full supply of wonderful memories of good cooking, wonderful smells, feeling close, and being loved and cared for over a life time.