The Mystery of the Little Ledge: What That Small Kitchen Island Shelf Is Actually For (And How to Love It)

The Mystery of the Little Ledge: What That Small Kitchen Island Shelf Is Actually For (And How to Love It)

It’s a design detail. It adds a decorative element to the kitchen.

The Different Names for It

A “countertop extension.” A small extension of the  countertop.

An “appliance garage.” A small, covered storage area for  appliances.

A “display ledge.” A small shelf for displaying items.

A “seating ledge.” A small ledge for resting a plate or glass.

Chemistry

A “serving ledge.” A small ledge for setting down  food.

What It’s Actually For
Display: It’s a great place to display cookbooks, a small vase, or a decorative object.

Storage: It’s a handy spot for a cutting board or a small bowl of fruit.

Serving: It’s a great place to set down a serving dish.

Dining: It’s a convenient place to rest a plate or glass.

Charging: It’s a great spot to plug in a phone or tablet.

A landing spot: It’s a convenient place to set down a grocery bag or a stack of mail.

How to Use the Little Ledge
Display cookbooks. It’s a great place to showcase your favorite cookbooks.

Dictionaries& Encyclopedias

Hold a vase of flowers. A simple vase of flowers can brighten the kitchen.

Hold a bowl of fruit. A bowl of fruit is both beautiful and functional.

Rest a cutting board. It’s a great spot for a cutting board.

Hold a small plant. A small plant can add life to the kitchen.

Rest a tablet. It’s a handy spot to follow a recipe.

Charge devices. It’s a great spot to plug in a phone or tablet.