Is that microwave also a vent hood? because if it is, you can't just put it on a shelf, but you need brackets that clear the vent, light, and other stuff underneath. I'd be tempted to do a chunk of cabinet like you were imagining, and just do all white, matching the general style of the kitchen cabinets. It will look like a unit with the stove...

Thanks! I believe (and will double check as I was not at the walk through) that there was no venting at this stove (1 of 2 in an OLD building). So I would probably suggest a recirc microwave replacement. Thanks for reminding me! White is a good idea rather than trying to match. Thanks for your help!

Check building safety codes first. This would not be permitted in my area.

A white microwave on a white shelf on a white wall - perfect.

For a community kitchen it's likely that the Fire Marshall will ask for automatic fire extinguisher equipment over the range instead of a microwave.

You cannot put a shelf over a range. You can install the 'over the range' microwave on the wall with a wall mounted bracket and either vent it or not vent it.

I believe code is 30" to a combustible surface or if a venting micro then manufacturers recommendations can be used - at least according to NKBA's guideline and IRC code. So the stainless shelf (assuming non venting) should be ok at 30" above the range (of course this may be hard to reach/not ideal to use). Will double check for sure. My recommendation is a new recirc micro (white), and new white cabinetry so they have storage above and to the left to replace existing cabinet. Just have to make sure it's in the budget with the rest of the improvements they are looking for :) Thanks for all your ideas, suggestions and cautions!

I would make it as simple as possible. I think it would look nice by building a box style shelf around it & trim it with some 1" or 2" molding or decorative trim. Then I would paint it white & perhaps put some decorative tile at the bottom (from the top of the stove to the bottom of the microwave) or....you could also use a sheet of stainless steel as a back splash. The key with this project is to try & make that black microwave & white stove blend as much as possible. You might want to think about small black & white glass tiles as the back splash as well. Great project & I'm sure they will appreciate any improvements that you make! Good luck!