Planning a dream kitchen in Chicago, whether it’s in a classic Lincoln Park bungalow or a modern West Loop condo, always begins with one fundamental question: what are the right cabinet sizes?
This question isn’t just about numbers. It’s about function, ergonomics, and how to make the most of every inch of your unique space.
At AK Cabinet Craft, we have spent years designing and building custom kitchens that fit perfectly into the homes and lives of Chicagoans. In this guide, we’ll share our expertise to help you navigate the world of kitchen cabinet dimensions—from industry standards to the limitless possibilities of custom craftsmanship.
Part 1: The Building Blocks – Standard Kitchen Cabinet Dimensions
To appreciate the benefits of customization, you first need to understand the standards the entire industry is built on. Here are the basic dimensions you'll encounter in most showrooms.
Base Cabinets: The Foundation of Your Kitchen
These are the workhorses of your kitchen. They support your countertops, house your appliances, and store your heaviest pots and pans.
- Height: The standard height for a base cabinet is 34.5 inches. Once a 1.5-inch countertop is installed, the work surface reaches a comfortable height of 36 inches for most people.
- Depth: The standard depth is 24 inches. This easily accommodates a sink and dishwasher and provides ample countertop workspace.
- Width: This is where you see more variety. Widths typically range in 3-inch increments, from 12 inches to 36 inches. Narrow cabinets are used for things like baking sheets or bottle storage, while wider cabinets are ideal for pots and pans.
Wall Cabinets: Storage at Eye Level
These provide easy access to dishes, glasses, and everyday food items.
- Height: The most common heights are 30, 36, and 42 inches. The choice depends on your ceiling height.
- 30-inch cabinets are often used with 8-foot ceilings, leaving open space above.
- 36-inch cabinets will reach near the ceiling in the same room, creating a more built-in look.
- 42-inch cabinets are perfect for 9-foot ceilings, extending all the way to the top to maximize storage.
- Depth: The standard depth is 12 inches. This is sufficient for storing plates and glasses without overwhelming the workspace below. Cabinets above a refrigerator can be up to 24 inches deep to align with the appliance.
- Width: Similar to base cabinets, widths vary from 12 inches to 36 inches.
Tall Cabinets: The Storage Powerhouses
Often used as pantries or to house wall ovens and microwaves.
- Height: Standard heights are 84, 90, or 96 inches, designed to align with the total height of an 8-foot ceiling kitchen layout.
- Depth: Typically 24 inches to sit flush with the base cabinets.
Part 2: Ergonomics – The Science of a Comfortable Kitchen
Having the right sizes is only half the battle. Arranging them correctly is what creates a truly user-friendly kitchen.
- Space Between Countertop and Wall Cabinets: The gold standard is 18 inches. This provides enough clearance for small appliances like a blender or coffee maker while keeping the upper cabinets within easy reach.
- Walkways: For a comfortable one-person workflow, walkways should be at least 36 inches wide. If two cooks often share the space, aim for 42-48 inches.
Part 3: When Standard Doesn’t Fit – The Power of Custom in Chicago
Standard dimensions work perfectly in standard homes. But Chicago homes are rarely standard. Historic buildings with their quirky niches, modern open-concept condos, and kitchens where every inch counts—this is where the true potential of custom cabinetry is unlocked.
Why Chicagoans Choose AK Cabinet Craft?
- Maximum Space Utilization: Stock cabinets often leave awkward gaps or wasted space above. We design cabinets that run wall-to-wall and floor-to-ceiling, turning every inch into valuable storage. This is especially critical in smaller city kitchens.
- Perfect Appliance Integration: Found the perfect refrigerator or wine cooler that doesn’t fit standard modules? With custom cabinetry, it’s not a problem. We build a cabinet that frames your appliance perfectly.
- Solving Architectural Challenges: Uneven walls, exposed pipes, and low windows are a headache for standard cabinets. We turn these challenges into features, creating cabinetry that flows seamlessly around any obstacle.
- Total Design Freedom: You are not limited to a standard palette of colors or styles. You get the exact design you’ve always envisioned, whether it's timeless traditional or sleek, modern minimalism.
Conclusion: From Dimensions to Your Dream Kitchen
Understanding standard kitchen cabinet sizes is an excellent starting point for your planning. But don’t let those standards limit your vision.
Your kitchen should be a reflection of your lifestyle, perfectly tailored to the architecture of your Chicago home. More often than not, that can only be achieved by moving beyond the box.
Ready to build a kitchen that fits you perfectly?
Contact us at AK Cabinet Craft for a free consultation. We’ll help you design a space that is not only beautiful but exceptionally functional for years to come.
