kitchen island as workbench

[Michael Batt]

WE're going to be remodeling our kitchen, including all new cabinetry. I've been living with a shop made 2x4 construction work bench for a number of years now and am thinking that the kitchen island that's coming out during the remodel would make a great workbench. The top is 5 x 2-1/2 feet and 2 inch thick butcher block. It extends over the base 3" on all four sides. Plenty of storage in the base with 4 drawers and 3 base cabinets with full extension pullout shelves. A couple of questions: has anyone ever converted a kitchen island into a workbench? With the 2" thick top would that be enough to attach a true end vise? Any comments or suggestions are greatly appreciated.

[keith ouellette]

Never used one but even if you are building a bench in would be helpful to have a bench to do it. I say use it.