HI -- I don't see what you mean by a strange empty space . It was never meant to have anything there,- but if you need storage , then you could get a tall narrow cabinet or a counter height cabinet for your needs Or just get an upper kitchen cabinet because they are only 12 inches deep and install it like a base cabinet and add a counter top , then hang a memo board above . But this might make the kitchen look crowded . So what is on the other side of that space - your powder room or laundry room ?

Laundry room is on other side. It feels like a lot of floor space compared to the other side of the kitchen.

I wouldn't add any furniture there. It seems like it would crowd the space too much. If it looks empty to you, try adding some artwork or something on the walls!

If you find it necessary to fill the space
some suggestions




chalkboard
hanging clock
pics [Your selection]
moveable cart

I like all of Anne Dee's suggestions above. Pottery Barn also has their "Daily System" that consists of blackboards, hooks, letter bins, etc..... Something like that could work well in that space too.

http://www.potterybarn.com/products/daily-system-black/?pkey=cpinboards-chalkboards&cm_src=pinboards-chalkboards||NoFacet-_-NoFacet-_--_-

It doesn't look like a lot of space. I would go with artwork or a message board. I have seen some walls painted in a blackboard paint that is great.

Something small and not fixed...with a picture or message board above, a nice "key/mail/bag drop" to move some of the clutter away from the actual kitchen counters...

Hi. Nothing should go on the floor there. You could possibly add art to the wall. Can we see a picture of the other end to see what you are talking about?

It is a misconception that every wall and every space needs to be filled.

You do not need anything on the floor/wall area. Don't junk it up with shelving there. Maybe some art, or as suggested, chalk board for messages. Your kitchen looks interesting with the grey cabinets.

any furniture would just add clutter & become a nuisance. I would find a large, unframed, fun art print & hang it there for finished look. As leelee suggested; altho does not have to be food inspired - can be anything you particularly like and in colours that will enhance your kitchen. Have fun!!

Have you considered a shelves for cookbooks?

You mentioned kids - if they are small enough, my kids love their large growth chart - looks like the perfect spot! I also like Anne Dee's pictures. We have a chalkboard on our pantry door and it's great.

I agree with the suggestions against putting anything on the floor there. The wall would look really great with some artwork- check out etsy for affordable, original paintings.

I agree with decorative items or maybe hanging pots and pans since the stove is adjacent. There are also wall mounted drop leaf tables if you need extra counter space occasionally.