I think it would open up your kitchen more to remove these soffits (above the sink too) as they are pretty heavy looking. While the wood shelf idea sounds stylish it does not seem practical for storage and may look unbalanced on that long wall alone. This kitchen looks like a pretty close approximation to your space and gives an idea of what removing the soffit would look like and how much larger the space looks overall.

Thank you. This picture is very helpful.

Soffits are sometimes there for a reason - ie duct work. Have you checked that out.

Yes, according to my contractor, these are easily removed. It must have just been the style for attaching cabinets at the time of building.

If they are empty get rid of them- the kitchen will feel forty years newer

Thank you. Yes, I agree with you all about removing the soffits. I guess I just needed to hear it. Perhaps dark painted lower cabinets will help “ ground” the space. Thanks for your opinions.

I agree with removing the soffits. I’m renovating my 61YO kitchen, and the soffit above my clean sink can’t be removed bc it’s a cold air return, and it can only be decreased in height by 3”. Such a bummer that it must stay. Remove the soffit and your kitchen will be much larger in appearance. You’ll be able to your that space in a much more productive way.

*use not your