Utilizing Corner Posts to Anchor and Style Your Kitchen Island

A kitchen island can be the focal point of any culinary space. With increased functionality and style, an island provides valuable prep space and storage as well as an area for casual dining. However, a kitchen island can suffer functionally without proper corner posts. These structural elements anchor the island while permitting full access to storage space. Read on to learn the benefits of using kitchen island corner posts.

Kitchen island corner posts are vertical pieces of trim or paneling installed at the junction of two perpendicular cabinets or countertops. They serve both decorative and utilitarian purposes.

Corner posts create separation between cabinet doors, allowing each to fully open without obstruction. They also provide an anchor point to affix countertops and prevent sagging. Posts conceal the small gap inevitable where two countertops meet at a 90 degree join.

Kitchen corner posts prevent cabinet doors and drawers from bumping into adjacent handles. They permit full access to storage space which would otherwise go wasted. They also add decoration, concealing seams and imperfections.

Benefits of Using Corner Posts for Kitchen Islands

Installing corner posts on your kitchen island imparts several benefits:

• Allows full access to cabinets and drawers without interference.
• Prevents cabinet doors and drawers from damaging each other.
• Provides anchoring point to affix countertops.
• Conceals seams and small gaps between countertops.
• Adds decorative touch to enhance style.
• Increases functionality and storage capacity.
• Boosts value and sale appeal of home.

Without corner posts, an island loses practical storage space in the corners. Contents in these cabinets become troublesome to access. Doors and drawers bang into adjacent handles, marring the finish over time. Posts solve these issues, permitting full use of the island's storage capacity.

Choosing the Right Corner Posts

Corner Post Materials

Island corner posts come in a variety of materials to match any kitchen decor:

• Wood - Natural or stainable wood blends seamlessly into cabinetry. Choose oak, maple, hickory, ash or poplar.
• PVC or vinyl - Durable and moisture-resistant. Select textured vinyl to mimic wood grain.
• Laminate - Affordable option with wood-like finish. Easy to clean.
• Metal - Usually wrought iron or aluminum for industrial vibe. Stainless steel works in modern kitchens.
• Glass/acrylic - Translucent panels complement lights integrated into island. Acrylic resembles glass.

Corner Post Design and Style

Corner posts range from simple functional pieces to ornate decorative accents. Choose based on your kitchen's style:

• Minimalist - Clean lines and simple styling. Opt for straight posts in a muted finish.
• Traditional - Embrace classical elements like raised panels, crown molding and trim.
• Contemporary - Seek sleekness with straight edges in metal, acrylic or glass.
• Cottage - Soften the look with distressed wood posts and visible joinery.
• Industrial - Exposed pipes or steel posts complement this bold utilitarian style.

For aunified look, select posts using the same material and finish as existing cabinetry. Contrasting materials can also make the posts stand out as an accent.

Installing Corner Posts on a Kitchen Island

Preparing for Installation

Proper planning prevents problems when installing corner posts:

• Check post dimensions to ensure adequate clearance for doors/drawers.
• Account for countertop thickness when measuring.
• Select mounting method - adhesive, screws, brackets.
• Have necessary tools - drill, level, tape measure.

Remove existing cabinet doors, handles and drawers before installation. This allows full access and prevents damage. Cover countertops to protect from dust.

Securing the Corner Posts

Use these steps to install island corner posts:

1. Clean area thoroughly to ensure proper adhesion.
2. Apply adhesive to back of post and/or cabinet surface.
3. Position post flush in corner and press firmly.
4. Use painter's tape to hold in place until adhesive dries.
5. Pre-drill holes and insert screws for added stability.
6. Fill any gaps with wood putty; allow to dry and sand smooth.
7. Reattach handles, doors and drawers.

Take care to position posts perfectly straight using a level. Clamps can also be used to hold posts in place as adhesive cures.

Decorating With Kitchen Island Corner Posts

Painting/Staining Corner Posts

For added personalization, consider painting or staining your corner posts:

• Lightly sand posts prior to painting for better adhesion.
• Use painter's tape to protect nearby surfaces from drips or splatter.
• Apply 2-3 thin coats of latex paint for a smooth finish.
• Consider a complementing accent color to make posts stand out.
• For staining, use pre-conditioner so stain absorbs evenly.
• Seal with polyurethane for protection and sheen.

Adding Trim and Accents

Decorative touches can enhance the island's corner posts:

• Affix crown molding, flattened appliques or medallions.
• Incorporate glass/metal inlays, carvings or turnings.
• Use decorative hardware like feet, corbels or capitals.
• Attach a vertical plate rack for function and style.
• Accent with lighting, either down-facing or interior.

Get creative with your kitchen island corner posts by adding trim, carvings, glass elements, corbels or feet. Complement with accent lighting or glass shelving for a decorator's touch.

Corner posts enhance kitchen islands but occasionally installation issues arise:

• Visibly misaligned or crooked posts - Ensure posts are plumb and level.
• Doors/drawers not closing properly - Check measurements and post placement.
• Posts loosening - Use larger/additional screws and construction adhesive.
• Gaps evident - Fill with wood filler; allow to dry before sanding smooth.
• Paint not adhering - Sand lightly before painting; use primer.

Careful measurement, drilling pilot holes, using sturdy adhesive and keeping the posts level will prevent many problems. Follow any manufacturer's instructions for best results.

Kitchen island corner posts provide both practical and aesthetic benefits. They maximize storage access and prevent cabinet damage while lending decorative flair. With creative touches like trim, carvings and accents, corner posts anchor and style kitchen islands for optimal enjoyment.