Whether you are purchasing your kitchen cabinets premade or custom, you'll need to install cabinets that fit comfortably into the allotted space in your kitchen. This guide is designed to help you determine the correct cabinet dimensions for your kitchen space, from base cabinets to wall cabinets, plus tips for sizing kitchen cabinets for your dishware.

 

Please feel free to contact our experts at Boca Cabinets with any follow-up questions!

Choosing Dimensions for Base Cabinets

Base cabinets reside on the floor in the kitchen. They can be difficult to design and install because of their position alongside dishwashers, refrigerators, stoves, and other kitchen appliances and components.

 

Therefore, when choosing dimensions for base kitchen cabinets, you must remember three things: be precise, get the first piece right, and make the space accessible.

Measurements Must Be Precise

The measurements have to be precise down to the smallest unit. Carefully measure the cabinets against the wall, the floor, and the appliances.

 

The slightest miscalculation in measurements can trigger problems, from cabinets leaving gaps next to your appliances to pieces too large to fit in spaces properly. Always measure twice to be precise!

It's Critical to Get the First Piece Right

If you're worried about the ability to achieve the required precise measurements, focus on getting the first piece right. If you get the first piece right, every other piece will fall into position!

 

Position the first piece according to the highest point on the floor. This will help you determine the height of the first piece and all others.

You Should Make Every Space Accessible

Accessible design is trending, and while it may not be the first thing that comes to mind, it can be highly beneficial for ensuring your household runs efficiently. It’s essential for individuals with mobility issues, visual impairment, or arthritis because the design helps to support them in their daily tasks and makes the environment safer.

 

Accessible design includes specific strategies like:

 

  • Having easy access to storage.
  • Making sure the countertops are the right height.
  • Having enough knee space for those using wheelchairs.
  • Built-in shelving.

 

Most experts agree you should stress accessibility when considering how deep, tall, and wide your cabinets will be.

 

Minimize the amount of deep, unreachable space you have at the corners and implement easy-to-use features like pull-down shelving and looped cabinet pulls that do not require grasping, pinching, or twisting motions.

Choosing Dimensions for Wall Cabinets

Even if you completely renovate your entire room, you still need to plan your wall cabinet design around the kitchen. The kitchen contains components you may not see or account for when developing your concept.

 

Therefore, identify all components, such as the electrical outlets, electrical wiring, plumbing, vents, HVAC air ducts, and any other part that may hinder or alter the size and depth of the cabinets.

 

And, while you are at it, don't forget about the microwave outlet. It is commonly overlooked during installation. Knowing where you're going to put the microwave can also help you when you size your cabinets.

Sizing Cabinets According to Your Kitchenware

You can determine the size of each cabinet space according to how you arrange your kitchenware.

 

Remember, one of the key elements of cabinet design is creating a more functional kitchen. Arrange your cabinets so you can easily access your dishes, pots & pans, silverware, and other utensils. This will set the basis for each unit's dimensions.

 

Although you may be tempted to purchase a base cabinet that is 30 inches deep to make more space for your dishes, deep cabinets can make it difficult for you to reach across the countertop or into the back of the cabinet.

 

Check out the standard kitchen cabinet sizes below and measure wisely!

Standard Kitchen Cabinet Sizes

Your base cabinets are the main foundation and will support the weight of appliances and decor. They typically have shelves underneath and one drawer on top, and the base standard size is 34 1/2 inches high or 36 inches high with a countertop 25 1/2 inches wide, between 9 to 42 inches long.

 

Wall cabinets sit above the main countertop and are between 30 and 42 inches high, 12 inches wide, and 9 to 36 inches long. While both will vary depending on your needs, these are the standard sizes to help you better understand what you will require.

How to Measure Your Kitchen

You need 100% accurate measurements to give you a better idea of what you need, and our expert tips to get the process going include:

 

  • Start by making a rough draft of the room's shape, and ensure you include each door, wall, and window.

 

  • Measure from the floor to the ceiling and each wall section, then record it on your layout.

 

  • Include the measurement for every window and door and the direction the doors and windows swing.

 

  • Mark where the appliances will be placed, including the height, depth, width, water, sink, and gas lines.

 

Once completed, you can add all the dimensions on each wall and double-check your totals. Remember that the measurements need to be precise; without proper training, this can cost you through mistakes or overlooked details.

 

A pro has the expertise to ensure the measurements are done properly, so you never have to worry about not having the right size, product, or installation for your needs.

Which Kitchen Hardware is Right for Your Cabinets?

Creating the perfect kitchen space means choosing the right hardware to complement your cabinets and streamline your process. Picking a durable and cohesive option can help match any theme you desire and create a simplistic aesthetic you will love.

 

The basic forms come in pulls and knobs, and the standard rule for choosing includes the drawer size:

 

  • Less than 30", pick an 8" pull or 1" knob.
  • Medium-sized drawers under 30" use a 4 to 8" pull or a 1" knob.
  • Drawers less than 12 inches, a 3 or 4" pull or a 1" knob should suffice.

 

When making your choice, consider how heavy the drawer is and ensure that the hardware can support its weight and the finish you are choosing so you have a durable and beautiful end remodel.

Custom Kitchen Cabinet Installation in Chicago

No matter what you have in mind for your kitchen cabinets, Boca can help you with your ideas. Our family-owned company has been offering homeowners custom kitchen design and installation since 2002, and no project is too big or small!

 

To schedule a consultation or start your installation, call us today at 773-886-4686. You can also message us online or visit our Chicago showroom.