Countertop spanning open space between cabinets
 

I'm in the intial planning stages of creating a crafting area for my wife. I'm wondering if it is safe and/or advisable to have open space under a countertop that would span between two lower kitchen cabinets. I'm not sure how far the span would be, but I'd probably tailor my design to accomodate any advice obtained here. I was also thinking of supporting the space with some sort of brace from counter to floor, such as galvanized pipe. The goal is to create a "desk" with room underneath for her legs to maneuver.

Please see my rudimentary drawing for a visual.

Thanks!

Lay 3/4" plywood down first, or just attach a 2 X 4 on the wall at the back of the counter top.

What material will your counter top be?

It'll be the pre-fabricated stuff they sell at Menard's for $40. I believe it's laminate.

Probably this one:
http://www.menards.com/main/home-dec...715-c-3629.htm

Then it looks like Joe's advice will work out just fine.