You can see this island looks like a strong wooden table at first glance, but underneath, it’s a hive of crates, each one a little chamber of its own.

Tools, fabrics, kitchen staples or whatever you store, the crates cradle them like building blocks of a bigger whole.

It’s a dresser reimagined as an island, practical yet poetic, giving your space a heartbeat of both function and design.

Materials Needed

• 12-18 plastic milk crates (standard 13″ × 13″ size)
• Steel or wood frame (custom built to fit crate dimensions)
• Wooden countertop (approx. 6′ × 3′, sealed and sanded)
• Metal screws and brackets
• Drill and screwdriver
• Measuring tape and carpenter’s square
• Optional: caster wheels if you want mobility

Step-by-step Guide

Step 1: Measure the number of crates you want to include and design your frame accordingly.

Each crate should slide in and out with ease, leaving about ½″ clearance on each side.

Step 2: Assemble your metal or wooden frame. If you’re using steel, secure the joints with brackets and screws for extra stability.

Step 3: Place the crates inside the frame, making sure they slide in smoothly. Then adjust the spacing if needed.

Step 4: Attach the wooden countertop securely to the frame. You now sand and seal the surface so it’s durable for daily use.

Step 5: Test the drawers by pulling the crates in and out. Make adjustments until everything feels smooth and balanced.

Step 6: Style your new island, use it in the garage as a workbench, in the kitchen as a rustic-meets-industrial prep station, or in a studio as a craft command center.

Tips:

I love using clear or white crates for a minimalist look, but you can swap them for colorful ones if you want more personality.

Adding caster wheels makes it even more versatile, rolling wherever your project takes you.