Start with the design of your kitchen b/f worrying about how to do it "cheap". You say you need more work/counter space (the USA name for "bench space", I think!) So, start working on that. If you post a drawing of your space, we can help you with it.

Since you're posting here instead of on the "Discussions" side, I suspect you've not read the "Read Me" thread.

First, I would read the "Read Me" thread and then repost your questions on the "Discussions" side. (This is the "Conversations" side, used for off-topic discussions.)

Next, I would start thinking about your layout so whatever you do you get a more functional kitchen! See the "Layout Help" topic in the "Read Me" thread.

Good luck!

Here is a link that might be useful: Read Me If You're New To GW Kitchens!

BTW...you're probably not receiving emails of follow-up postings, even though you checked the box requesting them. This is b/c you don't have the email option turned on in your profile. See the "Read Me" thread (linked to in my previous post) for more information. Scroll down to the post with the subject "Getting Emails Sent To You...3-step Process".