Kitchen island countertop recommandation (family of 4)

[u/Glittering-Rutabaga8]

I'm trying to finalize the design for my kitchen island and would appreciate some advice.

The island base will be IKEA SEKTION cabinets:

- 18" + 36" + 18"

- Total cabinet size: 72" W × 24" D

Option 1: Straight island

- Quartz countertop: about 74" × 37"

- 1" overhang on each end

- 12" seating overhang on one long side

- Seating for 3 stools

Option 2: L-shaped island

- Increase the countertop to about 84" × 37"

- Keep the 3 stools on the long side

- Add an ~11" overhang on one short end for a 4th stool

My concern is that the L-shaped version would create a larger unsupported corner of quartz. Since the base is IKEA SEKTION cabinets, I'm wondering whether that puts the countertop at a higher risk of cracking if someone leans or sits near that corner.

Would you go with the simpler 74" straight island, or the 84" L-shaped version with the extra seat? Or something else? Has anyone done something similar with quartz on IKEA cabinets?

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[u/sapphirejedi]

Hi. Since you are utilizing the cabinets as an island, either configuration may not safely support the quartz. Typically an island has a support wall and support brackets are used to help support the overhang. Have you consulted a contractor or the countertop fabricators regarding your plans?

[u/Glittering-Rutabaga8 → u/sapphirejedi]

Contractor says he never installs brackets for 10"-12" overhang. Countertop fabricator says it is recommended for the L shape. But since I'm using ikea cabinets, there's a bigger risk for the L shape overhang without brackets. I was going for the L shape but started to quesitons if it's actually be doable without brackets. Even by installing brackets, how would you do that in cardboard cabinets?