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How Deep Are Kitchen Cabinets: The Ultimate Size Guide


White kitchen cabinets with stainless steel appliances.
White kitchen without handles

Are you Planning your dream kitchen and wondering 'How Deep Are Kitchen Cabinets?' Explore our 'Ultimate Size Guide' for clarity on standard dimensions."











Are you planning your kitchen and seeking clarity on standard kitchen cabinet sizes? Whether you're considering stock cabinets or custom cabinetry, understanding space is key. Our comprehensive guide decodes the world of cabinet sizes for every DIY project. Our insights will transform your project and make kitchen planning easy. Say goodbye to guesswork and optimize your kitchen space with confidence. Let's dive into this empowering journey together!



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Kitchen Design: Decoding Kitchen Cabinet Dimensions

Do Kitchen Cabinets Follow Standard Sizing Guidelines? Yes, even when you're dealing with cabinet manufacturers specializing in custom cabinetry. Such, also tend to rely on common cabinet dimensions. Why? Well, it's partly because many of them use off-the-shelf cabinet boxes. For both semi-custom cabinets and full-custom cabinetry, standard cabinet sizes provide a practical starting point. These sizes often align with the needs of different types of kitchen cabinets.

A key factor influencing these common sizes is the appliances you intend to use. Appliances not only impact the width but also play a role in determining cabinet height. So, it's no surprise that common heights have emerged to accommodate various setups.

Yet, keep in mind that not every cabinet manufacturer offers every cabinet width. While widths tend to be consistent across suppliers, the height can vary. But here's the good news:


Your kitchen supplier can translate your design to fit available products without compromising functionality.


So, embrace these standard dimensions as a solid foundation for your project.


 

Understanding Standard Kitchen Cabinet Sizes

Welcome to our guide where we break down the dimensions for various types of cabinets. We'll explore the width, height, and depth of each one, giving you a clear understanding of what to expect. Whether it's base, wall, or tall cabinets, we've got you covered. Let's start and break down common kitchen cabinet dimensions, one type at a time.


 

How Deep Are Kitchen Cabinets - Cabinet Width Guide:


Standard Base Cabinet Widths: Essential Base Cabinets

Standard base cabinet dimensions, range from 6" to 48". Such offer you versatile storage space and solutions. Cabinets come with options like double doors, pull-out drawers, and pull-out shelves. You can customize your kitchen by choosing from a variety of cabinet materials. Further, select drawer fronts and cabinet doors that match your preferred cabinet style. Yet, using standard width like a 36-inch base cabinet ensures:

  • avoiding costly customization

  • easy access to available kitchen base cabinets and appliances

  • flexibility in case you need to replace or upgrade any components in the future.

Chart for kitchen base cabinet sizes
Standard widths for base cabinets

Disclaimer: Standard cabinet width: Keep in mind that not all cabinet manufacturers offer every size listed on the chart. However, 18", 24", 30", and 36" are the most common sizes. Your cabinet dealer can match your plan with their available options.

Consider your sink choice when choosing your sink base cabinet size. Single-basin sinks need less space, while double-basin sinks need wider cabinets. Ensure your cabinet's width and depth match your chosen sink. See our chart overview below to consider the right cabinet size for your basin choice.


Chart for standard sink base cabinets in a kitchen
Kitchen Sink Base Cabinet Sizes

Disclaimer: Keep in mind that not all kitchen brands offer each size listed on the chart. Your cabinet dealer can match your plan with their available options.


 

2. Corner Cabinet Solutions: From Blind Corners to Blind corner base cabinets

Planning kitchen cabinet corners can be tricky. One of the most common kitchen design mistakes is not considering door handle sizes. To ensure smooth operation, it's essential that your pull-out clears the door handle. Thus, consider factors like handle selection and needed countertop depth when planning. To determine your countertop depth study your appliance selection. Read Difference Between Kitchen Cabinet Depth & Planning Depth to learn more! Corner units such as a corner carousel, lazy Susan, Magic Corner, or Le-Mans come in standard sizes. Those help you guide placement.

Tipp: Determine your necessary countertop depth. It allows you to better understand how it affects corner unit sizing and placement. This ensures adequate clearance space, even in tight kitchen corners. It will allow for efficient cabinet placement and pull-out shelf use.


Overview kitchen base corner cabinet dimensions
Blind corner cabinet measures

Disclaimer: The cabinet depths shown assume a 24-inch countertop depth. However, your appliance selection or other factors may require a deeper countertop. These dimensions are general guidelines, and if you need a deeper countertop, consider leaving more space between the wall and cabinet placement.



 






 

3. Standard Wall Cabinets: Upper Cabinet Essentials

Kitchen wall cabinets are available in various common widths. They are essential for creating a spacious kitchen. Yet, be cautious with wider options. They may pose a sagging risk when exceeding 36-inch-wide cabinets. Understanding standard kitchen dimensions is vital for efficient space planning. It helps you design upper kitchen cabinets that are functional and pleasing.


Overview Standard Kitchen wall cabinet sizes
Standard kitchen cabinet dimensions _ Wall units

Disclaimer: These wall cabinet dimensions are for reference and can vary by manufacturer. They provide planning guidelines and may need adjustments by your dealer for their products.


 

4. Tall Cabinets Unveiled: Tall Kitchen Cabinets, Smart Storage & Space Solutions

Tall kitchen cabinets are the key to smart storage and space solutions. Tall cabinets are often used as pantry cabinets. They offer extra storage for your kitchen essentials. Such can offer you comfortable drawer pulls, or storage behind kitchen cabinet doors. Other special cabinets include:


  • Utility cabinets for cleaning supplies,

  • pull-out larder for any cooking & kitchen supplies

  • pocket door units to hide countertop appliances or similar


Most kitchen brands offer a variety of cabinet sizes. Such can include 36-inch-wide or 24-inch-wide tall cabinets. Use the available options to optimize your kitchen storage space. These cabinets extend up to upper cabinet height. Providing you with deep storage to keep your kitchen organized and clutter-free.

Cabinet Type

Typical tall cabinet widths (inches)

Pantry Cabinet

18, 24, 30, 36, 42, 48

Utility Cabinet

15, 18, 24

Disclaimer: Table dimensions are general guidelines for tall kitchen cabinets, subject to variation by manufacturer and model. Please consult manufacturer specifications or seek professional advice.


 

5. Essential Planning Dimensions for Appliance & Appliance Housing

Placing appliances is a crucial yet challenging aspect of kitchen design. Study & review the manufacturer's specifications for each appliance. Yet, there are still standard dimensions you can use when planning your kitchen. Find the sizes for each appliance below and learn what to consider. Let's address the key considerations for each:

Oven Cabinet

When you consider a build in oven, microwave, or steamer you will need a housing unit. Standard sizes are 24", 30", or 36".

Tipp: Consider the door opening of the appliances. Ensure you have enough opening clearance without obstructing nearby cabinets or appliances.

Refrigerator Planning

Refrigerator, Freezer, or refrigerator combinations come in different sizes. Further, there are different installation types. Such include free-standing, integrated, or using a refrigerator panel. Consider your design Preferences. Each installation may need different planning depths. Yet, start with allowing for enough room to place appliance size that meets your needs.

Common Refrigerator Planning Width:

18", 24", 30", 36", 42", 48", 72", or a combination of those when placing them next to each other.

Dishwasher Planning

Dishwasher units run 23 5/8" (60cm). Ensure there's adequate space for smooth operation, considering nearby cabinets and obstacles. Place your dishwasher between 2 cabinets or plan for a side panel of roughly 1" to build a structure for your unit.

Range Planning

Planning for a range involves assessing its size and clearance requirements. Consult the manufacturer's specifications for:

- dimensions (Most common: 20", 24", 30" , 36", 40", 48" , 60", 71").

- consider safe cooking space,

- ventilation, and clearance from adjacent surfaces.

Cooktop Planning

Standard sizes are: 24", 30" and 36". Some manufacturers allow to combine cooktops to increase your cooking zone indefinite.

To determine the necessary countertop depth for a cooktop, study the manufacturer's specifications. Account for the cooktop's size, style, and ventilation needs.

Range Hood Planning

Consider your hood model of choice. Are you considering a downdraft setup? Do you prefer a ceiling or wall-mounted solution? Your choice will influence your planning dimensions. For example, a downdraft solution may need an increased countertop depth. It will also impact the distance between the counter and your hood. Yet, in general, make sure your hood is equally sized or bigger than your cooktop/range. Let your kitchen designer work out the details.


 

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Standard Depth: Insights on Standard Kitchen Cabinet Depth

Discover standard cabinet depth options for tall, base, and wall units. They offer you flexibility in design and functionality.

Depth for base cabinets

​Standard: 24"

  • Other available cabinet depth options may include: 12", 18", 30". Perfect for planning within narrow spaces or to increase your storage space.

Depth for wall cabinets

​Standard: 12-14"

  • Other available cabinet depth options may include: 15", 18".

​Tall kitchen cabinet depth

​Standard: 24"

  • Other available cabinet depth options may include: 12", 18", 30".


Base and tall units typically with 24-inch Depth. But keep in mind that kitchen brands may have varying standard planning depths. Manufacturers often tailor their planning dimensions to meet specific functional and design goals. Yet, as a general rule of thumb, starting your planning with a 24-inch depth provides a good foundation. Allow for adjustments as necessary to accommodate countertop overhang and enclosure requirements.


 

Difference Between Kitchen Cabinet Depth & Planning Depth

Cabinet depth refers to the actual depth measurement of a kitchen cabinet. Thus, it is indicating its physical size. Planning depth is the cabinet depth plus extra space. Such allows to focus on functionality and ergonomics during kitchen design.


There are 2 crucial considerations when considering your kitchen planning depth. To create an optimal working space, think about your ergonomics and appliance choices.

  • Appliances: Your appliance choice determines your minimum planning depth.

Kitchen countertop depth planning
Increase counter for cooktop (Left)

  • Ergonomics: Considering your ergonomics in kitchen design is essential for your comfort and efficiency. It ensures that the layout is user-friendly. It makes daily tasks easier and more enjoyable for you. While focusing on ergonomics when deciding on your planning depth consider the following.

    • Maximum depth: Increasing your countertop allows you to place deep cabinets. Deeper base cabinets will offer more storage and counter space. Yet don't overdo it. An increased depth can make reaching items challenging.

    • Avoid hard-to-reach zones: Make sure you are still able to access your upper kitchen wall cabinets. Increasing the countertop and upper cabinet depth can make access difficult. Further, increasing the wall unit depth can result in colliding with your uppers. Make sure to strike the balance between functionality, storage, and comfort while working.


Difference with 18" backsplash and 24" backsplash
Increased backsplash for better visibility

 

Exploring & Understanding the Kitchen Standard Height

The Standard Kitchen base cabinet height is set at around 36 inches with countertop. This is the perfect height for individuals around 5 feet 6 inches to 5 feet 10 inches (167 to 178 centimeters) tall. Allowing for comfortable food preparation and minimizing strain on your back and shoulders. You may want to consider lowering or increasing the standard height to adjust to your height. The standard height for kitchen cabinets is 34 1/2" including a 4" toe kick. Many brands offer different heights for their cabinets to accommodate different planning scenarios if needed.

Depending on the design and the kitchen cabinet maker the height of tall units can vary. Tall units are around 84 to 96 inches (7 to 8 feet) high. Be flexible with your kitchen cabinet height. Have your kitchen supplier adjust the height according to their cabinet system height. This way you can avoid extra costs for customization and additional height. Unless you plan on floor-to-ceiling cabinets you can save the extra expense.

Wall units are usually installed 18 inches above the countertop. But increasing this distance can improve the functionality of your kitchen. It will provide you with more room to move as well as better visibility. Consider increasing from the standard 18" distance to 22-25". Your wall units will increase or shrink accordingly. Many kitchen brands work with their own system heights. Within the system, they can choose from many wall unit heights. This way your kitchen supplier can ensure alignment and adequate space between counter and wall units.


Chart overview standard kitchen cabinet heights
Adjustable Kitchen Cabinet Heights

Need support?

Looking to upgrade your kitchen? Kitchen Design NYC is your perfect partner for any style, whether it's modern kitchens or contemporary kitchens. Let us create a gorgeous kitchen design for you that meets your needs. Take advantage of our expert design service. Reach out today and let's get started on your stunning kitchen transformation!



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