Kitchen Cabinets Dimensions in cm: Real-World Guide: 1 Minute to Get Standard Kitchen Cabinets Sizes & Expert Tips

When I first dove into remodeling my own kitchen, kitchen cabinets dimensions in cm felt like an intimidating web of numbers and guesswork. Why are dimensions so varied, and what do they really mean for your lifestyle? That sense of overwhelm is real—especially for homeowners, renters, or even designers looking to maximize every centimeter. I’ve spent years troubleshooting odd layouts, custom requests, and the quest for cabinet proportions that marry function and design. Let's break down the real-world sizing standards, lessons learned, and how the right dimensions can transform even the tightest spaces.

Summary upfront: The most common kitchen cabinet dimensions in cm—base cabinets at 85-90 cm height (with countertop), wall cabinets measuring 30-90 cm high, 30-100 cm wide, and 30-35 cm deep—set a practical starting point. But customization, clever combinations, and insight into how you actually use your kitchen bring the magic. Getting dimensions right isn’t just about numbers; it’s about creating a space that honors your routines, storage needs, and architectural quirks.

Many DIYers and design clients share the same pain points: struggling to adapt to standard modules, sacrificing storage or accessibility, or settling for layouts that “almost” fit. I’ve found the path to a great kitchen often starts with demystifying these numbers—and knowing when, and how, to break the rules.

Base Kitchen Cabinets Dimensions in cm: Design Fundamentals

Standard base kitchen cabinet dimensions in cm are a reliable guideline. Widths come in increments—30, 40, 50, 60, 80, and 100 cm most commonly—allowing flexibility in layout, from galley kitchens to sprawling islands. The standard depth is 60 cm, which fits most sinks, appliances, and hardware. Height consistently measures 85-90 cm (including countertop), making prep work ergonomic for most users.

However, real-life kitchens rarely tick every box. In urban condos, I’ve squeezed in 30 cm-wide base pull-outs for spice racks—ideal for tight corners. Once, to accommodate a client’s double-oven preference, I customized a 90 cm-high base to 87 cm, balancing appliance clearance and comfortable reach. For universal design or ADA compliance, the base height can drop to 82-85 cm for wheelchair accessibility.

Authority reference: The U.S. National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA) and International Residential Code provide these sizing benchmarks; see NKBA Kitchen Planning Standards.

Wall Kitchen Cabinets Dimensions in cm: Maximizing Vertical Storage

Upper (wall) cabinet heights generally span 30-90 cm, with the most popular heights being 60 and 72 cm. Depth is typically shallower than bases—30 to 35 cm—to keep items accessible and sightlines open. Widths usually mirror base cabinets, from 30 to 100 cm.

Lessons learned: When wall cabinets are pushed deep (over 35 cm), reaching back plates and glasses becomes awkward—especially for shorter users. In one compact remodel, I went with 40 cm-high wall cabinets to preserve views, but prioritized 50 cm height in another kitchen for extra storage above prep zones. Always keep a minimum 45-50 cm clearance from countertop to cabinet base, allowing safe appliance use.

Expert tip: Varying wall cabinet widths in a staggered pattern (e.g., alternating 30, 40, and 60 cm) can break up monotony and create playful “rhythm” in open-plan spaces.

Tall Pantry Cabinets: Maximum Storage, Minimal Footprint

Tall pantry or utility cabinets are indispensable for storing cleaning supplies, bulk goods, and built-in appliances. Standard widths are 30, 40, 60, up to 100 cm. Depth typically matches base units at 60 cm, but narrower versions (40-55 cm deep) can help avoid intruding on walkways.

Height ranges from 210-240 cm, reaching near-ceiling for every possible cubic centimeter. However, always check ceiling height (I once barely fit a 240 cm cabinet under a 242 cm ceiling, accounting for uneven floors and light fixtures). Ladder storage, or the rarely-used “holiday shelf,” is popular for uppermost reaches—but ensure stability and accessibility for safety.

Authority reference: National Association of Home Builders Standards confirm these dimension norms.

Custom and Modular Cabinets: When to Break the Rules

Every kitchen reveals its quirks: odd angles, structural columns, or nonstandard appliances. When stock cabinet sizes fall short, customization steps in. For example, in a vintage home with a sloped wall, I designed a 28 cm-wide base pull-out (ideal for trays) and a 35 cm wall niche for a client’s coffee ritual. Retrofitting cabinets from local workshops often resolves tricky gaps and maximizes function, but may affect warranty or price.

Pro insight: Adjustable shelving, pull-out inserts, and modular stacking let you “bend the rules” while ensuring everyday items aren’t out of reach.

Case Study: Compact Urban Kitchen, Maximum Impact

A client in a 38 m² apartment faced a 170 cm-wide galley. Standard 60 cm-deep base cabinets left too little room to maneuver, so we used 55 cm bases paired with 30 and 40 cm wall units, achieving full functionality and enough prep space. A vertical pantry cabinet, just 30 cm wide, captured cleaning supplies and bulk storage in a previously wasted nook.

Result: Visual openness, practical storage, and a solution tailored to every inch—testament to getting dimensions and flow right for tight spaces.

Trends and Ergonomics: Next-Gen Cabinet Sizing

Modular, adjustable cabinets are shaping kitchen design in 2025, allowing widths of 30-100 cm and variable depths. Homeowners now favor flexible solutions—think stackable units, customizable drawers, and removable inserts—to future-proof storage as cooking habits evolve. Sustainability also plays a role, with more brands minimizing filler panels and favoring made-to-measure solutions that pare down waste by centimeters.

Ergonomic trend: Lowering cabinets to 83-85 cm for accessibility, integrating smart pull-outs, and designing appliance garages within 35-60 cm-wide zones to streamline workflows.

Compliance: Consider local requirements (like ADA’s reach range for accessible kitchens, and LEED/Green Building standards for materials and cabinet sizing efficiencies).

Tips 1: How to Choose Kitchen Cabinet Dimensions in cm

1. Measure room dimensions precisely and sketch cabinetry layout before choosing widths or depths.
2. Balance between standardized modules (for cost/lead time) and custom inserts or filler panels (for unique features).
3. Prioritize accessibility: place everyday-use items within 130-150 cm from the floor; reserve upper cabinets for infrequently used goods.
4. Plan a minimum 120 cm aisle between cabinet runs for safe movement (especially in multi-cook kitchens).
5. Invest in quality hinges, glides, and pull-out hardware—these have more impact than extra centimeters of storage.
6. Consult local codes or a certified designer for ADA/Universal Design adaptations if needed.

FAQ

Q: What is the most common kitchen base cabinet width?

A: 60 cm is standard for most drawers, sinks, and pull-outs; widths can range from 30-100 cm depending on layout and need.

Q: Are deeper base cabinets (e.g., 70 cm) worthwhile?

A: Deeper cabinets can fit oversized cookware or trays, but often reduce kitchen circulation space; use sparingly.

Q: How high should wall kitchen cabinets be hung?

A: Base wall cabinets at least 45-50 cm above countertop to allow space for appliances and prepping, adjusted for tall users or special needs.

Q: Can I blend open and closed cabinetry?

A: Yes. Open shelves can be mixed with 30-60 cm-wide wall cabinets for display and functional storage. Use closed cabinets where hidden, clutter-free storage is desired.

Q: Where can I find more about current cabinet standards?

A: Visit NKBA’s industry standards and the HUD Kitchen Design guidelines for detailed measurement guidance and compliance tips.