# Kick space
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{{Short description|Recessed space at the base of cabinets}}
A '''kick space''', also known as a '''toe kick''' or '''toe space''', is recessed space at the base of most floor-mounted [kitchen cabinet](/source/kitchen_cabinet)s.[{{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](/source/cabinetry) designs by creating a separate, recessed platform upon which the 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 parts of the human body).[{{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.
thumb|A fully enclosed cabinet base with a kick space
Home designers often take advantage of this space by including heating or [ventilation ducts](/source/Duct_(flow)) 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 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](/source/Countertop) 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.