Strange Kitchen Cabinet Sizes? How Standard Dimensions Can Help
Kitchens come in all shapes and sizes, and it can be tempting to customize your cabinet dimensions. However non-standard sizes often create more problems than they solve.
By understanding and utilizing the standard kitchen cabinet dimensions, you can avoid many headaches down the road.
Common Standard Dimensions
Standard cabinet dimensions have been refined over years to maximize functionality and convenience. Here are some of the most common standards:
Base Cabinets
Base cabinets have become standardized at:
- Height: 34 1/2 to 36 inches
- Depth: 24 inches
- Widths: Increments of 3, 6, 9, 12, 15 inches
This provides ample storage capacity while keeping contents accessible. The width flexibility allows designing around specific appliances, fixtures, and available space.
Wall Cabinets
Wall mounted cabinets should sit 18 inches above countertops. Standard heights include:
- 12 inches
- 15 inches
- 18 inches
- 24 inches
- 36 inches
These dimensions ensure wall cabinets integrate aesthetically with backsplashes and range hoods. The depths usually match base unit standards.
Tall Cabinets
Tall pantry units range from:
- 84-96 inches high
- Depths of 12-24 inches
This provides substantial storage without occupying excessive floorspace.
Benefits of Using Standards
By sticking to time-tested standard cabinet dimensions, many advantages emerge:
Ensure Fit and Function
Standard sizes allow efficiently and ergonomically organizing a kitchen workspace. Cabinets fit together cleanly while providing ample clearance for appliances, fixtures, and accessories.
Simplify Installation
Since standards are ubiquitous, cabinets employ common installation methods using typical hardware and attachments. Custom jobs require specialized plans and components.
Expand Countertop and Sink Options
Standard cabinet footprints integrate seamlessly with typical countertop cutouts and sinks. Non-standard units often require expensive custom components and complex installations.
Maximize Storage Convenience
Careful dimensions provide both accessibility and huge capacities. Common shelf placements further optimize ergonomics and organization.
Problems with Non-Standard Sizes
It can be tempting to tweak cabinet dimensions to a specific kitchen but this often backfires:
Complicated Installation
Each custom size requires specialized plans and hardware. Exact on-site measurements become crucial, and attachments may need fabricating.
Limited Countertop and Sink Choices
Non-standard units rarely align with typical countertop sizing and sink/stove cutouts. This restricts materials, finish, and accessory options.
Sacrifice Storage Capacity
Tweaked dimensions limit shelf placements and ergonomic organization leading to wasted space or awkward access.
Hamper Functionality
Small custom changes can turn a logically planned kitchen into an inefficient mess unable to accommodate all appliances and traffic flows.
Tips for Choosing Cabinet Dimensions
Occasionally situations require tweaked cabinet sizes, so consider:
Ceiling Height
The ceiling height impacts positioning of wall and tall cabinets. Make sure adequate room exists before ordering.
Measure Multiple Times
Carefully and repeatedly verify required cabinet dimensions before finalizing orders. Precision is essential.
Leave Room for Trim
Ensure adequate space for desired trim styles and moldings around cabinet perimeters.
Adjust dimensions for windows, ductwork, pipes and other elements intersecting planned cabinet locations.
By understanding and utilizing standard kitchen cabinet dimensions, you can avoid many pitfalls and problems. If tweaks prove essential, take great care in modify and verifying sizes to prevent functionality and installation issues.