Replies

1. 
   hammer1 | Dec 01, 2007 03:59am | #1

   One way is to build a framed, tall back on the base cabinets that extends to the height you want, less the thickness of the top. Brackets are often used on the stool side of the bar to provide support and a decorative element. End panels are used to blend everything in.

   Beat it to fit / Paint it to match

2. 
   popawheelie | Dec 01, 2007 05:47am | #2

   I'm no expert but i think it depends on how deep the taller wall is. If it is going to be deep it could funcion as a cabinet. You could put doors on it and use it for storage of items you don't use all that often. You could put doors on it that don't have pulls so the look like raised panels.

   Buy if the raised portion of the counter is just a narrow wall with a wider counter on it you could just add it to the top of your counter. It will take depth away from the lower counter though. Does that help.

    

3. 
   oldusty | Dec 01, 2007 06:35am | #3

     Hi Mike ,

              On islands with a bar overhang I will often make the base deeper then 24" to give it a larger foot print and weight bearing area , maybe 28 or 30" depending on the particulars .

        These deep islands are a good place for a deep recycle center / trash area

      Sometimes a regular stub wall gets framed out of 2x4s and depending on the depth of the top counter you may need corbels in any event .

      If there is plumbing and electricity the stub wall is a handy spot to house them.

         I would urge you to consider a  larger one level countertop , it will give you a much larger and uninterrupted work surface and at the correct height . No special ht bar stools will be needed either .

        regards        dusty

     

1. 
   WillGeorge | Dec 01, 2007 06:23pm | #4

   No special ht bar stools will be needed either .GOOD POINT! They may cost more than the island project!

1. 
   colebearanimals | Dec 02, 2007 02:21am | #5

    

           The one level surface is a very practical way of addressing this. With an overhang you can still have an eating area. It's a little easier to make as well.

           But if you are going to have a sink or cooktop in the bar ( peninsula ) , depending how it faces, a raised section is nice in that it will hide the sink, faucets, and/or cooktop.

                                                     Paul 

1. 
   Aaron83 | Dec 04, 2007 08:54pm | #6

   Maybe I'm too late but how about instead of an elevated section have a depressed section. For maybe a sink or a slicing and dicing area? Thought I'd add my 2 centsAaron

1. 
   dougmeyer | Dec 04, 2007 10:21pm | #7

   Well to add my 2cents to this, In my house I am using (ok when I get around to it I will be using) these metel brakets that will hold the bar counter up off the surface of the work counter (for lack of better terms) But then again I have a house that is a bit more modern or industrial (kind of like a loft style) and can get away with this. It would not look good in a traditional. If  you have an Ikea around you, then you can see the same idea used at thier place. (yes the sell junk but they have interesting ideas sometimes)

   Doug

2. 
   colebearanimals | Dec 04, 2007 11:30pm | #8

   Hi Aaron,

            " ......... have a depressed section."

            That's pretty much the same thing except the depressed section might end up too low for comfortable use. But, of course, it depends on the height of the person using it. There lies the beauty of custom cabinetry. It can be specifically designed for the client.

                                                   Paul

4. 
   wink | Dec 05, 2007 02:27am | #9

   I built such an island for a customers kitchen.  Used two cases one at the 35"  and the other at the desired bar height.  Sides of the two were faced with 1/2" birch, then moulded to suite. Fronts of both were covered with a face frame with doors which gave access from each side. Worked quite well.

1. 
   MBaybut | Dec 05, 2007 04:15am | #10

   Wink,
   Thanks. That's the way I was picturing it in my head.
   mike