Modular Kitchen Dimensions in mm: The Designer’s Cheat Sheet: 1 Minute to Avoid Costly Mistakes When Choosing Modular Kitchen Sizes

Modular kitchen dimensions in mm can make or break your kitchen’s usability, especially if you’re dealing with tight spaces or specific family needs. I’ve seen homeowners fall for gorgeous catalogs, only to realize the cabinets don’t fit their appliances, or worse—a countertop is too high for comfortable prep. Getting these measurements right isn’t just about aesthetics, it affects every daily move you make in your kitchen.

Years ago, a client in San Diego brought me into a remodel where nothing, not even their beloved vintage mixer, fit under their overhead cabinets. That project taught me the real pain points of ignoring standard modular kitchen dimensions, and why I now rely on tools to experiment with different configurations early in the design. If you want to see how subtle changes in millimeters can impact your workflow, try to experiment with different island configurations using a digital layout planner.

Standard Modular Kitchen Cabinet Dimensions in mm

Most base cabinets measure 720 mm in height (excluding countertop), with a depth of 560 mm for maximum storage without cramping movement. Wall cabinets typically stand between 600 mm and 750 mm in height, and 320 mm in depth so everyday dishes are within easy reach. I always advise clients not to push wall cabinets past 750 mm—unless you fancy climbing a stepstool daily.

For tall units, like a pantry, 2100 mm is a sweet spot for accessibility, while ensuring it doesn't overpower the space visually. Your toe-kick (that handy little recess at the bottom) should be 100 mm high and 75 mm deep, which seems minor until you realize it’s what lets you stand comfortably at the counter for hours on end.

Modular Kitchen Countertop and Appliance Space Guidelines

Countertop height should land at 860 mm to 910 mm—most Americans find 900 mm ideal for working without back strain. Leave at least 600 mm between countertop and wall cabinets so your coffee machine or blender fits. If you’re doing a galley or parallel layout, plan at least 1200 mm between counter runs so two people can work side by side.

Oven, fridge, and dishwasher nooks need careful mapping in millimeters as well—likely between 600 mm and 900 mm wide depending on model, with 50 mm breathing room for safety and airflow. I’ve seen overheating woes in more than one kitchen with snugly wedged appliances.

Latest Case: Small Modular Kitchen Layout Done Right

Recently, a Chicago couple with just 2100 mm by 3300 mm to work with needed full-functionality and a clutter-free look. We installed 600 mm deep drawers for pots below, 350 mm open shelves above with LED underlighting, and chose matte-laminated finishes to bounce light. They raved about prepping dinner with everything accessible and not having to tiptoe around the fridge door swing. For a similar experience, I recommend using a tool for testing kitchen layouts in mm before finalizing any orders.

Mistakes to Avoid When Measuring Modular Kitchen in mm

Many people overlook skirting, plumbing elbows, and uneven floors—just 20 mm off can leave you frustrated. Always account for hardware (hinges can add 3-5 mm), and allow a buffer of 10-20 mm along walls to prevent scribing issues. Trust me, a laser level and patience will save on rework and tears.

You’d be surprised how many believe small kitchens can’t feature an island, but with as little as 1200 mm clearance on all sides, a compact 900 mm by 600 mm island becomes doable. Test it virtually before you rule it out—sometimes millimeter precision unlocks big design wins.

How to Future-Proof Your Modular Kitchen Dimensions

I always advise planning for flexibility. Today’s 900 mm countertops should have support for under-cabinet lights, integrated charging strips, and future pull-out organizers. Leave at least 300 mm to the nearest window frame to avoid clashes with hardware or drape movement. Sustainable modular kitchens also feature 600 mm deep recycling pullouts and 160 mm high plinth drawers for easy toe-space storage.

If you want to keep your kitchen timeless, review local appliance trends. American fridges are famously wider (up to 910 mm), and new built-in microwaves require up to 450 mm vertical gaps. I walk clients through these details in every initial site survey and recommend they consult a kitchen layout planner before signing off on layout revisions.

FAQ

What are standard modular kitchen cabinet sizes in mm?

Base cabinets: 720 mm high x 560 mm deep. Wall units: 600–750 mm high x 320 mm deep. Tall/pantry units: 2100 mm height recommended.

How high should a modular kitchen countertop be?

Ideally, 900 mm from floor to top. Can range from 860 mm to 910 mm to suit user comfort.

How much space should I leave between the countertop and wall cabinets?

At least 600 mm vertical clearance for safe, practical use of appliances.

What is the standard width of drawers in mm?

Drawers in modular kitchens are generally 450 mm to 900 mm wide, depending on specific use and space available.

How much clearance is needed for an island in a modular kitchen?

Minimum 1200 mm walk space on all sides for safe traffic flow and appliance access.