Hey Catherine, Sorry for the delay in response. I got the butcher block at Ikea, it’s probably the best price around. Thank You!

Thanks so much Rita! Oh, I feel your pain about that strange space. It really took me so much thinking to come up with a conclusion on our weird kitchen corner – it was one of those things that would keep me awake at night, but then the solution just hit me like a ton of bricks. I hope the answer for your awkward space makes it self clear for you too (and hopefully soon). Good luck!

Thanks Jessica!

Thanks Kristen! I’m always unsure of my styling abilities.

Hey Callie!

Yes, we all deserve a pat on the back for doing this stuff. It is all so worth it in the end, your home should be a place that makes you happy and I think it’s great that some of us are brave enough to do whatever it takes ;)

Yes the upper shelves are butcher block. They are heavy, but not too heavy. Since the chimney section was cut out there are really just the shape of Oklahoma, and don’t weigh as much as you would think. I did anchor the cleats really well, and I hope everything stays up there. I also cut extra cleats if need be for under the back of the “cove” area and the chimney. I was going for aesthetics first, and if the shelves start to sag or need more support, I’ll go ahead and add more with my back up cleats.

Thanks Shannon!

Yeah, I was thinking of just putting a stool there, but that wouldn’t have been super functional since the kitchen table is right there too. I think this was for the best, no regrets!

Thanks Anne! I’m really happy with it so far, now I have to tie up all the loose ends, which is no fun.

I know! I think so much of it seems harder than it actually is. So far, everything has been able to be put back together. I think this will give me confidence for more home DIY projects down the road!

Thanks Courtney!

Thanks! It totally does, I am so happy!

Thanks Kathy!

Hey Laura, it was easier than I thought. I just bought a masonry bit to drill the holes. It was as easy as drilling into a stud. Then I used an anchor and screw to mount the cabinets.

I may have missed this in the post, but are the upper shelves butcher block? I have a similar nook that needs shelves and love the chunky look, but am curious about the weight?