This is something we did when we remodelled our kitchen in 2006. We installed the blind corner cabinet about 2" lower than the rest, and topped it with granite. We did this for a couple reasons: a lower, polished granite surface is great for rolling dough, and the granite also provides a convenient heat-proof landing spot for things coming out of the microwave. The second photo shows the detail.
If I remember right, we simply made a base by laying 2x4's on their broad sides, then trimmed down the toekick to fit. the spacer from the granite surface to the underside of the laminate adjoining it is a piece of cover panel.
When we bought our current house in 2007 (it was a vacation home until our retirement), we realized that the kitchen would lend itself to the same treatment. We are now here full-time and our IKEA kitchen cabinets have been ordered. Since the above microwave shelf is no longer available, we are re-creating it. Below it will be a lower section, just like the above photo, using again, a blind corner cabinet and a 15" wide base cabinet. This time, the section will be topped with soapstone. I've always wanted soapstone counters, but just can't afford them everywhere.
I'll post again when our new kitchen is done!
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