How big is my kitchen?
An Updated Guide to the Essential Measurements for a Custom Kitchen
Knowing the measurements of your kitchen is key to creating a space that reflects both your needs and your personal style. Being aware of the dimensions of the main components helps you design the layout effectively, making your kitchen both functional and welcoming.
Let’s explore the most important measurements to consider during the planning phase.
Remember: in this article you’ll also find a kitchen design glossary – a mini guide to the essential terms and technical language most commonly used in kitchen furnishing.
How high are base units?
Designing a Kitchen: Choosing the Right Measurements for Your Needs
When designing a kitchen, the goal is to create a layout that fits not only the user’s habits but also their physical characteristics. In fact, based on a person’s height, different measurements should be considered for optimal comfort.
Below, we outline the key dimensions that influence kitchen planning.
Based on the average adult height (approximately 165–185 cm), the total height of kitchen base units — including plinth and countertop — generally ranges from 85 to 91 cm, to ensure comfort and ergonomic use.
The main variables that affect this height are:
Plinth height
Cabinet carcass height
Countertop thickness (influenced by the hob thickness)
Our Product Measurements (in cm)
Standard Modularity:
Base unit with 12 cm plinth, 75 cm carcass, and 4 cm top:
12 (plinth) + 75 (carcass) + 2 (top) = 89 cmBase unit with 15 cm plinth, 75 cm carcass, handleless groove, and 4 cm top:
15 (plinth) + 75 (carcass) + 2 (top) = 92 cm
Available carcass heights for base units: 18, 36, 48, 60, 75 cm
Available heights for tall and mid-tall units: 99, 135, 207, 231 cm
XL Modularity:
Base unit with 6 cm plinth, 84 cm carcass, and 4 cm top:
6 (plinth) + 84 (carcass) + 2 (top) = 92 cmBase unit with 8 cm plinth, 84 cm carcass, and 4 cm top:
8 (plinth) + 84 (carcass) + 4 (top) = 94 cm
Available carcass heights for base units: 18, 36, 48, 60, 84 cm
Available heights for tall and mid-tall units: 144, 204, 216, 240 cm
Wall-mounted base units, which don’t include a plinth, allow greater flexibility in height positioning — and therefore better ergonomic customization — for both base and wall cabinets.
Key Dimensions for Kitchen Design
Sink base units must be large enough to accommodate the sink bowl(s). Always check the width and depth of the sink when planning.
Countertop thickness can vary depending on the hob type and manufacturer (e.g., gas or induction). Always refer to the product specifications.
Standard oven housing typically measures H60 x W60 x D60 cm (nominal dimensions).
Dishwashers usually require 45 to 60 cm of width. The sink should never be installed directly above the dishwasher.
Our Product Range
Plinths: H 12–15 cm (Standard) or H 6–8 cm (XL)
Base cabinet carcasses: H 18–36–48–60–75 cm (Standard) or H 18–36–48–60–84 cm (XL)
Countertops: H 1.2 – 2 – 4 – 6 cm
Clearance for curved handleless groove between tall units: always 3 cm
Note: Base unit height is no longer affected by the presence of a curved groove. Carcasses H75 or H84 can be used with or without the groove.
What is the minimum base unit depth?
Depth of Kitchen Base Units
As a general rule, the minimum depth of kitchen base units should not be less than 60 cm. This standard is mainly dictated by the dimensions of built-in appliances such as ovens, cooktops, sinks, and dishwashers, which require adequate installation space.
Greater depths are often preferred by users, as they provide a larger work surface, making food preparation more comfortable and efficient.
Shallower units are only recommended when no appliances are installed and the space is intended exclusively for storage of utensils and other kitchen items.
How much space is needed between a base unit and wall unit?
Wall Unit Positioning and Distance from the Cooktop
Wall units are generally installed at a height of 147–150 cm from the floor.
While there is no strict rule about the space between base units and wall units, there is a safety standard that recommends a minimum distance of 60–65 cm between the cooktop and the range hood. Therefore, it is advisable not to install wall units lower than this threshold when positioned above a cooktop.
This precaution helps prevent heat damage to the surfaces located above the cooking area.
If the cooktop is not placed directly beneath or near the wall units, the distance may be reduced to improve accessibility, making the kitchen more user-friendly and ergonomic.
Please note: Induction cooktops require a specific range hood, designed not only to extract fumes but also to properly manage the moisture generated during cooking. This is essential to maintain healthy air quality, avoid condensation on cabinetry and surfaces, and ensure the correct operation of the ventilation system.
What depth must wall units be?
Adapting Wall Unit Depth
To correctly define kitchen measurements, the depth of wall units can also be adjusted. Wall units typically have a standard depth of 35 cm, but this can be modified based on specific needs.
For example, if the worktop is deeper than usual, deeper wall units may be selected — for instance, with 70 cm deep base units, you might opt for wall units with a depth of 43 cm.
The difference in depth between wall and base units (typically around 24 cm) helps prevent accidental bumps while cooking and contributes to a more comfortable and functional kitchen layout.
If you’d like to learn more about kitchen ergonomics, you can check out this dedicated article.
In this article, you’ll also find 5+1 practical tips for designing a kitchen that’s not only beautiful but also functional.
Do you have any other questions or would you like to explore a specific topic?
At authorized retailers, you can design your ideal kitchen by selecting the dimensions best suited to your height and daily habits. You’ll be able to evaluate every detail, dive into the technical features of each component, and find the perfect solution for you.
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