The Ultimate Guide to Kitchen Standard Sizes in Centimeters
When designing or renovating a kitchen, getting the dimensions right is essential to ensure both functionality and comfort. Standard kitchen sizes serve as a guide to help you create a practical layout that works for your space. This guide will walk you through key kitchen dimensions using centimeters.
1. Standard Kitchen Counter Height
The height of the kitchen counter is crucial for comfortable working.
- Standard height: 90 cm
- Custom adjustments: You can adjust the height slightly based on user preference, typically between 85 cm to 95 cm.
2. Countertop Depth
The depth of the counter determines how much workspace you have and how well appliances fit.
- Standard depth: 60 cm
- Considerations: A deeper countertop, around 65 cm, may be preferred in some cases for larger kitchens or if you need more workspace.
3. Kitchen Island Dimensions
A kitchen island offers additional workspace, storage, and seating. Its size will vary based on your kitchen layout.
- Width: 60 to 120 cm
- Length: Typically, 120 to 240 cm, depending on the space available.
- Height: Same as the counter height, around 90 cm. If the island includes seating, one side may be raised to around 110 cm to accommodate bar stools.
4. Kitchen Cabinets
Well-placed cabinets ensure the kitchen stays organized and functional.
- Upper cabinet height: Typically mounted at a height of 135 to 150 cm from the floor, with a depth of 30 cm.
- Base cabinet height: 90 cm, matching the counter height.
- Depth of base cabinets: 60 cm to align with the counter.
5. Shelf Dimensions Inside Cabinets
The shelves inside kitchen cabinets must be spaced correctly to store dishes, appliances, or pantry items efficiently.
- Shelf depth (upper cabinet): 25 to 30 cm (leaving room for doors to close without obstruction).
- Shelf spacing (upper cabinet): Typically 25 to 35 cm between shelves.
- Shelf depth (base cabinet): 55 to 60 cm, matching the cabinet depth.
- Shelf spacing (base cabinet): Adjustable, usually 25 to 40 cm between shelves based on stored items.
Note: Upper cabinets often have 2 to 3 shelves, and base cabinets can include pull-out shelves or drawers for better access.
6. Wall-Mounted Shelf Dimensions
Open shelves are a stylish and practical alternative to upper cabinets, offering easy access to frequently used items.
- Standard depth: 25 to 30 cm (to fit plates, glasses, or small appliances).
- Shelf spacing: 30 to 40 cm between shelves, depending on what you plan to store.
- Length: Can vary widely depending on the wall space available, typically between 60 cm and 180 cm.
- Height above countertop: The first shelf should be installed about 45 to 55 cm above the countertop to allow sufficient working space below.
7. Drawer Dimensions
Drawers are essential for storing utensils, cookware, and other kitchen necessities.
- Standard drawer width: 30 to 90 cm, depending on the size of the cabinet.
- Drawer height:
- Shallow drawers (for utensils): 10 to 15 cm.
- Medium drawers (for pots and pans): 20 to 30 cm.
- Deep drawers (for bulkier items or appliances): 30 to 40 cm.
- Drawer depth: 50 to 55 cm, typically matching the base cabinet’s depth.
Note: Drawers are often organized into sets of three or four in a base cabinet, with the top drawer being shallow for utensils and the lower drawers deeper for pots, pans, or bulkier items.
8. Cabinet Door Dimensions
Cabinet doors protect stored items and enhance kitchen aesthetics. Their dimensions vary based on the type of cabinet.
- Upper cabinet door height: 70 to 90 cm, depending on cabinet height.
- Upper cabinet door width: 30 to 60 cm. For wider cabinets, two doors (15 to 30 cm each) are often used.
- Base cabinet door height: 60 to 80 cm, aligning with the cabinet height.
- Base cabinet door width: 30 to 60 cm, similar to upper cabinets, with wider cabinets often featuring two doors.
Note: Door size depends on cabinet width and height. For larger cabinets, it’s common to use two smaller doors instead of one large door to improve access.
9. Toe Kick Height
A toe kick is the recessed space under base cabinets, providing comfort when standing at the counter.
- Height: 10 to 15 cm
- Depth: 5 cm
10. Minimum Clearances from Walls
Adequate clearances from walls ensure functionality and ease of movement in the kitchen.
- Clearance between counters and walls: A minimum of 5 cm is typically left between a counter and a side wall to allow for door and drawer functionality.
- Clearance for appliances near walls: For larger appliances like refrigerators and ovens, ensure at least 5 cm of space between the appliance and the wall for ventilation and easy access.
- Walkway clearances: Minimum clearance of 120 cm for main walkways and 100 cm for work aisles between counters or between an island and the counter.
11. Walkway Clearances
To ensure proper movement and comfort, maintaining the correct spacing between kitchen elements is key.
- Main walkway width: At least 120 cm between countertops or between the island and counter.
- Work aisle width: If more than one person will be working in the kitchen, aim for a clearance of 100 cm between counters or between an island and counter.
12. Sink Dimensions
Choosing the right sink size is important for both functionality and aesthetics.
- Standard width: 50 to 60 cm for single-bowl sinks, and 80 to 90 cm for double-bowl sinks.
- Depth: 20 to 25 cm, with some deeper options going up to 30 cm.
13. Stove and Oven Dimensions
The size of the stove and oven impacts the kitchen’s layout and overall design.
- Stove width: 60 to 90 cm, depending on whether it’s a four-burner or six-burner model.
- Oven width: Standard built-in ovens are usually 60 cm, but larger ones can be up to 90 cm.
14. Built-In Microwave Dimensions
Built-in microwaves save counter space and seamlessly integrate into your kitchen cabinetry.
- Width: 55 to 60 cm
- Height: 38 to 45 cm
- Depth: 30 to 40 cm
- Installation height above the ground: The microwave is usually installed at 135 to 150 cm above the floor for easy access, especially if placed above the oven in a tall cabinet.
15. Built-In Oven Dimensions
A built-in oven offers a streamlined look and allows for more flexibility in kitchen design.
- Width: 60 cm (standard), with larger models up to 90 cm.
- Height: 60 cm for single ovens; double ovens can be up to 90 cm in height.
- Depth: 55 to 60 cm, which fits most standard cabinetry.
- Installation height above the ground: Built-in ovens are often placed at 85 to 90 cm above the ground, ensuring comfortable access for most users, especially for those who prefer not to bend down. If stacked with a microwave, the oven typically sits below the microwave.
16. Built-In Coffee Maker Dimensions
A built-in coffee maker is a luxury that adds sophistication to your kitchen, while saving counter space.
- Width: 55 to 60 cm
- Height: 45 cm
- Depth: 50 cm
- Installation height above the ground: Built-in coffee makers are typically installed 135 to 150 cm above the floor, making them easily accessible without bending, often in a tall appliance cabinet or next to the microwave for a streamlined look.
17. Refrigerator Space
Make sure you allocate enough space for your refrigerator, considering its size and ventilation needs.
- Width: 60 to 100 cm
- Depth: 60 to 70 cm
18. Washing Machine Dimensions
In many kitchens, especially in Europe, the washing machine is integrated into the cabinetry for a seamless design.
- Width: 60 cm (standard).
- Height: 82 to 85 cm, typically designed to fit under the counter.
- Depth: 55 to 60 cm.
- Installation height: Installed at floor level, with the top aligning with the countertop at 90 cm.
19. Dishwasher Dimensions
Built-in dishwashers are common in modern kitchens, providing convenience without disrupting the kitchen’s aesthetic.
- Width: 60 cm (standard), though slimline models are available at 45 cm.
- Height: 82 to 85 cm, to fit under the countertop.
- Depth: 55 to 60 cm, matching the depth of the cabinets.
- Installation height: Typically installed flush with the base cabinets.
20. Hanging Lights Dimensions
Hanging lights add style and functionality to kitchen spaces, particularly over islands or dining areas.
- Height above countertop: Generally installed 75 to 90 cm above the countertop for optimal illumination.
- Spacing between hanging lights: If multiple lights are used, space them 30 to 60 cm apart, depending on their size and design.
- Diameter: Typical pendant lights range from 25 to 40 cm in diameter.
21. Built-In Lights Dimensions
Built-in lighting enhances the kitchen’s ambiance and functionality, providing task lighting where needed.
- Recessed light diameter: Generally 10 to 15 cm in diameter.
- Height from ceiling: Installed about 15 to 25 cm below the ceiling.
- Spacing between lights: Usually spaced 1.2 to 1.5 meters apart for even lighting coverage.
Final Thoughts
This guide outlines essential dimensions for kitchen components, including countertops, cabinets, appliances, and lighting. Understanding these measurements ensures a well-organized, functional, and comfortable kitchen space.
Feel free to ask any questions or share your kitchen design ideas below!
