I say don't. My friends looks bad after two months. Stained with white circles from water damage. However , hers doesn't look sealed or oiled well enough. It's quite raw looking. Some woods must be more suited then others. If you don't have children and don't leave anything drying or wet on your benchtops it would be ok.

We would recommend using the same timber as the floor if you can. This would make sense and keep your material palette as simple as possible - there are some fantastic timber finishing treatments available that will provide a durable surface that is easy to maintain. There may be a way that you can introduce a separate timber element say 40-60 thick that sits on top of the existing solid top... perhaps a bit like the kitchen in this image by 'Beef Architects'http://www.contemporist.com/2013/06/21/riverpark-apartment-by-beef-architects/ap_210613_07/

thanks so much. I want to draw the attention to the champagne candy pendants and to be the feature behind the dull brown overheads. I'm thinking it's ok to mix metals. I forgot to add the canopy rangehood which will be installed behind the pendants. I hope it won't clash! My stainless steel kitchen appliances are yet to be installed.

Think about the usage of the space. Do you want to face the dining room or alfresco when in the kitchen.? When using the cook top do you want a full bench for placing items opposite or just a metre of bench.? How will you use the space inside the large window? If the island is at right angles, would it be in the way of any potential view through that window? Your house....you have to work out what is practical to your household.