How do I finish a support stud in the middle of my kitchen island?

Hi Jane, can you build a box around the stud so that it looks more like a finished column? You could also use reclaimed wood around it to give it a really rustic, farmhouse look.

Hello. The support pier can be wrapped with wood and either stained or pained to suit your personal aesthetic.

It can be layered in a panel fashion to have a molded surface or plain.

It might be best to match the color tones of the countertop asnot to stick out as a distraction.

I think I would stain to match the beam that is running across the top. You have multiple wood finishes though so you could pick the finish you prefer most and match to that.

Another option is use it as a decor piece and hang pots from it, which would also be practical.

Question: WHERE does the support beam run TO??? It looks as though it was cut to fit the quartz counter under it. If so, it isn't supporting anything at all and that has to be rectified immediately! A quartz countertop cannot hold up the beam above and which may hold up the roof!!!

I don't think it 's possible to make the column "disappear". After bulking up the column, I would match the finish to the support beam above, so that it looks to be an original continuation of the beam---rather than an add-on. Good luck!

Hi Jane, I would match the color on the exposed beam up top, but I see you have outlets on this as well, why not use this as a charging hub? Have some fun with it, make it a message center, etc.

I would use some wood to match the finishes in your kitchen. You can make it decorative - hand plants from it, maybe?

There are some ideas here:

https://www.houzz.com/discussions/2525152/design-solutions-for-columns-incorporated-into-island

If your cottage is rustic, it could be really cool to finish it with a faux stone. That would be a real focal point.

I would build a box around the beam, and stain it the same colors as your cabinets.

I would also make sure that I checked with a contractor to see if that beam meets building codes.

I would clad the beam in wood with built in mini shelves for spices, after priming and painting with a white marine epoxy paint.

Box it in since you have receptacles on it. Hang pots or pans on it, or a hanging planter on each side up high.

Box it in since you already have receptacles sticking out. Paint it grey to match the counter top and hang a planter from each side or use to hang pots/pans or vintage kitchen utensils.

Build a small bookcase to hold your cookbooks. Make the beams look intentional and useful.

Pretty any type of storage would be a good idea.

I think you can clad it and paint it - like we did here with out stair post: https://www.frugalfamilytimes.com/2020/07/hidden-storage-under-stairs-diy-basement-railing.html

Lots of ideas here to cover the post and make it blend or "disappear". Personally I would see where the bean is supported on on each end. Then get a similar beam and sister bolt it to the existing beam so the post can be removed. Would need some extra muscle to get the sister bean in place.

Since it is a kitchen, what color will the appliances be? Have you considered making the column with a metal finish so you can add hooks for hanging pots or plants? A metal finish that matches the appliances could also allow you to use magnets to change out seasonal decor - add mini baskets for use as a workstation - clip message board - lots of ways to make it useful space even if it was unintended.

i would frame it out and create nice mini shelves for some fun display