kick space
A kick space, also known as a toe kick or toe space, is recessed space at the base of most floor-mounted kitchen cabinets.{{cite web|last1=Adams|first1=Chris|title=What Are the Optimal Toe Kick Dimensions?|url=http://ergonomics.about.com/od/kitchen/f/toe_kick_dim.htm|website=about.com|accessdate=8 March 2015|archive-date=2 April 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150402230727/http://ergonomics.about.com/od/kitchen/f/toe_kick_dim.htm|url-status=dead}}
Description
Traditionally, a kick space is allowed for in modern cabinet designs by creating a separate, recessed platform upon which one's cabinetry may rest. The kick space is intended to prevent potential toe injuries and allow for closer proximity to a countertop (the toes being the furthest-extending ground-level human body parts).{{cite web|last1=Griggs|first1=J. Michael|title=Human Figure Average Measurements|url=http://www.fas.harvard.edu/~loebinfo/loebinfo/Proportions/humanfigure.html|website=LoebInfo|publisher=Harvard University|accessdate=8 March 2015}} Typical dimensions are roughly {{convert|4|in|cm}} high by {{convert|3|in|cm}} deep.
File:Cabinetmaking-kick space base.svg
Many homes take advantage of this space by installing heating or ventilation ducts here.{{cite web|title=How-To Install A Kick-Space Heater|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v_yQwnns9IM|website=YouTube|accessdate=8 March 2015}} It also provides the additional advantage of serving as a "bumper against over-zealous mopping and vacuuming".{{cite web|title=Toe Space in Kitchen Cabinets|url=https://www.kitchencabinetdepot.com/kitchen-cabinet-toe-space.html|website=Kitchen Cabinet Depot|accessdate=8 March 2015}}
History
The kick space became more common in the 20th century. With a burgeoning middle class and advancements in industry and domesticity, countertops became a more prominent work surface. Whereas previously most standing crafts were done at tables, there developed a need for a work counter to which one could comfortably stand directly adjacent. As the name would suggest, the kick space provides a space in which one's toes can rest.{{cite web|title=Toe Space in Kitchen Cabinets|url=https://www.kitchencabinetdepot.com/kitchen-cabinet-toe-space.html|website=Kitchen Cabinet Depot|accessdate=8 March 2015}}