DIY Network

Upscale Kitchen Island: Installing the Columns and Crown Molding From "Weekend Remodeling" episode WKR-213

	In this week's episode of Weekend Remodeling, host Fuad Reveiz builds an upscale kitchen island ...
	that features counter-to-ceiling columns.
	This particular kitchen was a perfect candidate for an island because of the ample open space.

In this final segment of our "Upscale Kitchen Island," host Fuad Reveiz finishes the project by installing the columns and crown molding.

This is an intermediate level project and rated 3 on a "difficulty" scale from 1 to 5, with 5 being the most difficult.

Materials and Tools:

Base cabinets
Particleboard
Laminate
Contact adhesive
1 x 6 wood
Beadboard
Base molding
Crown molding
Corner molding
Screws
Latex paint
Router
Table saw
Miter saw
Circular saw
Level
Palm sander
Several clamps
Disposable paint brushes
Brad nailer
Trim nailer
Framing nailer
Belt sander
Laminate roller

advertisement

	Figure A
	Figure B
	Figure C
	Figure D
	Figure E

Installing the Fluted Columns

1. To center the columns over the base cabinets, take some measurements. First find the center of the countertop and make a mark. Then measure from the edge to determine how far the column should be from the end of the countertop and make a mark.

2. Install an anchor block on both ends of the countertop (figure A) so you can tie the base of the columns to the surface.

3. Set the columns into place over the blocks, and measure between the two columns at the base so you can transfer this measurement later.

4. Plumb the columns side to side (figure B) and mark the ceiling so the tops of the columns can be centered on the countertop.

5. Begin building the beam by cutting a 1 x 6 for the top piece. Tack the 1 x 6 to the ceiling with a nail gun to hold it in place, and then secure it with screws.

6. Measure the outside distance between the two columns to get the length of the two outside pieces. These pieces are cut on the miter saw and 45 the ends (figure C).

   Note: You'll need a helping hand to install these pieces.

7. Use another mitered piece of 1 x 6 to make sure the sides are positioned where they need to be. Then, using a trim nailer, put a couple of nails in each board and attach the pieces to the columns.

8. Cut the two pieces for the two ends and install those with the air nailer.

9. Before you can go any further, you'll need to plumb the two columns -- and now that they're connected it should be easy.

10. Use a level and check the first column. It it's plumb go ahead and nail the beam (figure D) to the first piece that was attached to the ceiling. This will tie the entire assembly to the ceiling piece.

11. Once the structure is secured to the ceiling you can cut the bottom piece for the beam.

12. Tap it into place and then nail it from the sides (figure E). Screw the base of the columns to the anchor blocks that were installed earlier.

	Figure F
	Figure G
	The finished island is a versatile counter space that will add functionality and beauty to any kitchen!