How to use space above new oven for a shelf?

andrewisme

G'day,

First time posting.

I'm replacing our old built-in double oven, and the new one will leave a 270 mm void above it.

I've attached a photo of the cavity, which is currently open into the roof space. I'd like to seal the top of the void first, then turn the remaining space into a floating shelf/niche like the inspiration photos I've attached.

My plan is then to use the remaining space to build a floating shelf or boxed-out niche, similar to the inspiration photos I've attached. I'd like it to look like it was always part of the cabinetry rather than an afterthought.

My rough idea is:

•Cover the top of the void with cement sheet.

•Leave an appropriate ventilation gap above the oven (around 50-55 mm) or is that not really needed?)

•Build a floating shelf to create a decorative storage nook above the oven.

Does this sound like the right approach, or is there a better way to do it, and is there anything I should be mindful of regarding heat ventilation?

EricL

Hello @andrewisme

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community. It's wonderful to have you join us, and thanks for sharing your question about building a shelf space above your new double oven.

Before you begin, I suggest looking carefully at your oven manual and determining if a gap is necessary above it or if a panel can be placed directly above it. If that information is not on the manual, I recommend calling the oven manufacturer or supplier and asking them about the recommended oven installation cover and what materials to use. Once you have that information you can then start to plan your shelf space.

Your plan sounds reasonable and I believe an extra shelf can be installed in that extra space. But what is important is that the installation follow the manufacturers recommendation and that it also adheres to safe building practices.

In regard to stain colour matching, I propose visiting your local store and looking at the stain and sealer sample board in the paint department. You can then look at the samples and see which one is close to the stain colour of your oven tower. Please note that getting a close match involves trial and error as getting an exact match is not possible. My best suggestion is to bring one of your door panels and showing it to the senior paint specialist in the store and asking them for advice on how to achieve a close match.

If you have any other questions we can help with, please let us know.

Eric