I agree. 'Just looks like a dust catcher.

Obviously there is electric in there because there are can lights, but I'd either enclose it (but that will make a really deep/high soffit) or see if it can be removed without too much expense. Seriously, as I said on another thread, there is a special place in hell for the guys that design and build those "shelves".

Obviously there is electric in there because there are can lights

Yeah, but if there's either a cockloft or an attic above, that's no problem.

there is a special place in hell for the guys that design and build those "shelves".

Totally agree!

There is electric in there and an attic above. We are doing a mini remodel of the bathroom so taking this up would add a bit to the project but I'd have the contractor and electrician here already. There is also an outlet up there for rope lighting.

It is a dust collector and such an odd size that you can't reach so basically useless. I like the lights though. They are on a dimmer. They could move the soffit and lights up and make it a normal drop size from the ceiling down.

Definitely eliminate it if it's a possibility. If not, then have it sheet rocked in up to the ceiling so the shelf goes away.

Get rid of the dated soffit.

I'd ignore it.

Me, personally, I'd remove it if contactor and electician are going to be there anyway

i would remove it and relocate the lights to the ceiling, for sure!!