It is essential to consider the standard installation heights for kitchen cabinets in order to create a comfortable working environment for all users. In this article, kitchen and bathroom design experts at Concept Bath Systems, Inc. discuss the standards for upper cabinets in kitchens.
Standards for Upper Kitchen Cabinets
In traditional kitchens, upper wall cabinets are installed with their bottom edge 54 inches above the floor. This is because 18 inches of distance between the base cabinets and upper cabinets are widely considered as the ideal working space. Base cabinets are often 36 inches high—countertop included—and 24 inches deep. Meanwhile, upper cabinets are generally 30 inches tall and 12 inches deep.
These clearances are proven to be ergonomically practical for individuals over 4 feet tall and optimal for average users 5 ft. 8 inches in height. However, there are also exceptions to these standards. For instance, the custom-fit wall cabinets that rest above a refrigerator or range will be installed at a higher level than other upper cabinets and may be deeper than the conventional 12 inches, according to kitchen design pros.
Variations in the Installation Heights
There are situations where these installation standards can be varied to accommodate the needs of users, but this is ultimately restricted by the dimensions of stock cabinets. For example, a family with members 5 ft. 5 inches or shorter might decide to install base cabinets 35 inches above the floor, leave a 15-inch working space, and then install the upper cabinets 50 inches above the floor. On the other hand, a family with taller members might choose to install cabinets slightly higher for their convenience. Fortunately, these variations are minimal and will not dramatically affect the resale value of the home.
