Butchers block and prep table combination

Why choose between a traditional butchers block and a preparation table when you can combine both?

A butchers block and prep table combination gives you the hard-wearing end grain surface of a traditional butchers block together with the larger working area of a side grain preparation table. The result is a practical and attractive island bench that gives you two different preparation surfaces in one piece of kitchen furniture.

It can also cost less than building the entire top as an end grain butchers block.

End grain butchers block meets side grain prep table

The two timber surfaces perform different jobs.

The end grain butchers block provides the heavy-duty cutting area. The end grain construction creates the traditional butcher block surface designed for serious food preparation.

The side grain prep table provides a larger everyday preparation area. The side grain timber gives the table its distinctive long grain appearance and provides plenty of space for preparing meals, serving food or gathering around the kitchen.

By combining the two, you get a dedicated butchers block at one end and a generous preparation surface across the rest of the table.

It is a simple idea, but it makes a lot of sense.

A more affordable butchers block island bench

A full-size end grain butchers block requires considerably more work and timber to produce.

With a butchers block and prep table combination, only part of the top needs to use end grain construction. The remainder can be made as a side grain preparation table.

This reduces the cost while still giving you a genuine butchers block where you need it.

You also retain the substantial appearance of a traditional timber island bench, making the combination a great option for anyone who wants a feature piece without having the entire surface built from end grain timber.

Customise your butchers block and prep table

One of the biggest advantages of a combination table is flexibility.

We can make the table to suit your available space rather than forcing your kitchen to fit around a standard piece of furniture. The dimensions of the top can be customised and the base can also be designed around how you intend to use the table.

The butchers block and prep table combination pictured here was built with drawers and a shelf on one side. The opposite side was left open to provide comfortable seating.

This creates three useful areas in one unit:

• an end grain butchers block for cutting and food preparation
• a side grain prep table for general kitchen use
• an island bench with storage and seating

The result is a piece of kitchen furniture that works as a preparation bench, storage area and gathering place.

Create an island bench that suits your kitchen

Every kitchen is different, which is why the base layout can be just as important as the timber top.

You may want drawers for utensils and kitchen equipment. You may prefer open shelves for easy access to cookware. You might want seating along one side so family and friends can sit around the island bench while meals are being prepared.

The dimensions can also be adjusted to suit the available space.

Rather than buying a generic kitchen island and adapting it to your needs, a custom combination table allows the island bench to be designed around the way you use your kitchen.

Practical kitchen furniture that still looks great

Function is important, but a large timber island bench also becomes a major feature within a kitchen.

Combining end grain and side grain timber creates a natural visual difference across the top. The butcher block section has the distinctive end grain pattern, while the preparation table displays the longer lines of the side grain timber.

The contrast helps define the two working areas without making the table look like two separate pieces of furniture.

It still looks like one substantial, handcrafted kitchen island.

Is a butchers block and prep table combination right for you?

A combination table is worth considering if you want the benefits of a genuine butchers block but do not need an entire island made from end grain timber.

It can be particularly useful if you want:

• a genuine end grain cutting surface
• a larger side grain preparation area
• a custom-sized kitchen island bench
• drawers, shelving or additional storage
• seating incorporated into the table
• a more affordable alternative to a full-size end grain butchers block

You can see more examples and options on our butchers benches and tables page.

Talk to us about a custom combination table

If you have a particular size, layout or kitchen design in mind, we can discuss a custom butchers block and prep table combination to suit your space.

Tell us the dimensions you are working with, how you would like to use your island bench and whether you would like drawers, shelves, seating or a combination of all three.

Contact IHR Butchers Blocks to discuss your ideas and the options available.