Kitchen Base Cabinet Sizes Explained

When designing or remodeling a kitchen, determining the right base cabinet sizes is one of the most important early steps. The base cabinets establish workflow and storage capacity, while impacting the room's aesthetic. With some advance planning and understanding of standard kitchen base cabinet dimensions, you can choose sizes that maximize both function and visual appeal.

Whether you're working with a small galley kitchen or a large open concept design, proper base cabinet planning helps create a kitchen you'll love.

Standard Kitchen Base Cabinet Dimensions and Sizes

Kitchen base cabinets come in a range of standard widths, depths, and heights to suit different layouts and needs. Some of the most common measurements include:

• Widths: 18", 24", 30", 36"
• Depths: 24", 30"
• Heights: 34 1/2" (to counter)

Base cabinet depths are either 24" or 30" deep. The 24" depth provides ample storage while leaving more floor space in the kitchen. For larger items, a 30" depth adds 50% more capacity. Cabinet heights of 34 1/2" are most typical, designed to combine with a standard 1 1/2" countertop for a total height of 36.

For widths, 18" is useful for narrow spaces like galley kitchens and fitting around appliances. Wider 24" and 30" sizes allow more storage and access, while 36" widths work well for large kitchens and pantries. However, the optimum width depends on your specific kitchen layout and workflow needs.

a) Common standard cabinet sizes for different kitchen layouts

While you can choose custom sizes, most kitchens incorporate some standard base cabinet dimensions. Here are typical sizes for popular kitchen layouts:

• Galley kitchens: 18"-24" widths
• L-shaped kitchens: 24"-30" widths
• U-shaped kitchens: 30"-36" widths
• Island cabinets: 36"-42" widths

For galley and L-shaped kitchens, narrower 18" - 24" widths maximize limited space. U-shaped and open concept layouts suit wider 30" - 36" sizes for increased storage. Island cabinets range from 36" up to 42" wide to accommodate multiple cooks.

b) Standard cabinet sizes for different functions

In addition to general base cabinet sizes, certain spaces have typical dimensions:

• Sink base: 36" wide x 34 1/2" high
• Stove/cooktop base: 30" wide x 34 1/2" high
• Refrigerator base: 30"-36" wide x 34 1/2" high
• Corner base: Width varies x 34 1/2" high

Most standard kitchen sinks require a 36" wide sink base. Stove and refrigerator bases are often 30", but wider 36" sizes allow more prep space. Corner cabinets range from 18" to 36" wide depending on layout.

c) Factors to consider when choosing base cabinet sizes

To determine the optimal base cabinet sizes, consider:

• Kitchen workflow - Will different cabinet widths improve circulation?
• Available space - What sizes maximize storage without overwhelming?
• Appliance clearance - Is there room for stove/fridge bases?
• Accessibility - Are cabinets easy to reach and open?

Workflow is key - arrange the cabinets to minimize cross-traffic and wasted steps. Measure carefully to find sizes that fit without cluttering. Leave clearance for appliance doors and drawers. Finally, confirm cabinets are accessible, with reachable shelves.

d) Proper measuring techniques

To determine existing cabinet sizes or plan new cabinets, accurate measurements are essential. Be sure to:

• Measure existing cabinets including width, depth, and height
• Measure from wall to wall for total room width
• Account for protrusions like pipes and vents
• Note angled walls or non-square corners

Use a tape measure for precision. Measure multiple spots to account for non-standard walls. Note angles, alcoves and odd spaces that might require custom sizing. With detailed measurements, you can find (or order) cabinets suited to your kitchen's unique dimensions.

Base Cabinet Sizing for Small Kitchens

Small kitchens require strategic base cabinet sizes to maximize limited space. Some tips include:

• Using narrower 18" widths for a galley kitchen
• Choosing shallower 24" depths for more floor space
• Planning corner cabinets diagonally to optimize triangles
• Incorporating roll-out shelves for easy access

Every inch counts in a small kitchen. Carefully selected narrow and shallow base cabinets maintain workflow while increasing storage. For unused corner space, diagonal corner cabinets add functional space. Roll-out shelves, pull-out spice racks and other innovations keep compact cabinets organized.

a) Optimizing limited space with narrower widths

Standard base cabinet widths like 24" or 30" may overwhelm a tiny kitchen. Choosing narrower 18" widths minimizes the footprint to open up floor space. You can also opt for 15" widths from some manufacturers. Combine different widths to suit specific needs.

b) Using customized or shallower cabinet depths

Shallower cabinet depths are another small-kitchen problem solver. Standard 24" depths provide ample room while occupying less space than 30" depths. Custom 21" or 18" depths work for narrow galley kitchens. Minimize wasted space inside cabinets by using roll-out trays and other smart storage solutions.

c) Strategic planning for corner cabinet dimensions

Take advantage of angled corner space with specialized base cabinets. A standard corner cabinet optimizes the triangle shape using a blind corner design or specialized pull-out. For a more affordable option, add a revolving lazy susan. An L-shaped cabinet with a carousel is ideal for maximizing awkward corners.

d) Creative storage solutions to maximize vertical space

While base cabinets occupy the floor space, also utilize vertical real estate. Floor-to-ceiling pantries or tall cabinets provide massive storage capacity. Open shelving sacrifices some storage for an airy, clutter-free aesthetic. Wall-mounted spice racks, hanging pots and pans, and overhead racks double your useful space.

Base Cabinet Size Considerations for Large Kitchens

With ample space, larger base cabinets create substantial storage without cramping the kitchen. Options include:

• Wider standard cabinets up to 36"
• Deeper cabinet depths for more interior room
• Oversize island or peninsula cabinets
• Full-height pantry cabinets

Ample kitchens suit wider cabinets that maximize interior storage. For frequently accessed items, deeper 30" depths add 50% more space than standard 24" depths. Islands or peninsulas with 42" or wider cabinets become spacious workhorses. For dry goods, oversize pantry cabinets make excellent use of available space.

a) Wider cabinets provide more storage capacity

While narrow 18" widths are great for small kitchens, wider sizes better suit spacious kitchens. Standard 24" widths work well for general storage. For more capacity, 30" and 36" widths allow the addition of features like roll-out trays and interior organizers. Wider cabinets also accommodate larger pots, pans and small appliances.