STD Kitchen Cabinet Sizes: Base, Wall & Tall Dimensions Guide

So you’re planning a kitchen and keep hearing people say “standard kitchen cabinet sizes.” You might be wondering what that really means. Here’s the thing, these standard measurements aren’t random — they’re the reason your countertops line up perfectly, your drawers open smoothly, and your appliances fit like a glove.

When I was designing my first kitchen, I had no clue that even a one-inch difference could change how comfortable it felt to cook. Whether you’re working with a contractor or measuring everything yourself, understanding standard sizes will save you time, money, and a lot of frustration later.

Snippet-Ready Definition:

STD kitchen cabinet sizes refer to the common height, depth, and width dimensions used for base, wall, and tall kitchen cabinets. They ensure proper fit, comfort, and consistency during installation.

In this guide, we’ll go through base, wall, and tall pantry cabinet sizes — in inches, centimeters, and millimeters — and even share a handy chart. You’ll also learn how to measure your space, when to customize, and some tips I wish I’d known before buying my first set of cabinets.

Mission Statement

At Dwellify Home, our mission is to simplify home design for everyone. We help homeowners understand practical standards, real dimensions, and design details that make everyday spaces more comfortable, functional, and beautiful.

What Are Standard Kitchen Cabinet Sizes

Standard kitchen cabinet sizes are the typical dimensions that manufacturers follow so everything lines up neatly. Think of them as the common language that helps builders, designers, and homeowners stay on the same page. These measurements make sure your countertops meet your stove, your sink fits perfectly, and your kitchen looks balanced.

Why do these standards exist? Mainly for efficiency and comfort. The average countertop height, for example, was set around 36 inches because it suits most people’s working height. And since these cabinets are mass-produced, sticking to these standard dimensions helps lower costs while making replacements easy.

In the U.S., cabinets are measured in inches, but if you live in a country that uses centimeters or millimeters, don’t worry — we’ll talk about conversions too. The best part is once you understand how base, wall, and tall cabinets are sized, you can mix and match them like puzzle pieces to create your dream layout.

Standard Base Kitchen Cabinet Sizes (Inches, CM, and MM)

Let’s start from the ground up — base cabinets are the backbone of your kitchen. These are the ones that sit on the floor and hold your countertop.

The standard height of a base cabinet is 34.5 inches (about 87.6 cm), but once you add the countertop, it becomes about 36 inches (91 cm). That’s the magic number most people find comfortable for food prep. If you’re taller or shorter, you can adjust slightly, but try not to stray too far from this because appliances like dishwashers are designed to fit under that 36-inch counter height.

The standard depth is 24 inches (61 cm), though some compact kitchens use 21-inch deep cabinets to save space. I once renovated a small apartment kitchen where we used 22-inch deep base cabinets — it made walking space feel bigger without losing much storage.

Widths come in increments of 3 inches — 12, 15, 18, 24, 30, 33, 36, and 48 inches. This modular sizing makes it easy to combine drawers, sink bases, and pull-out units in a clean, symmetrical layout. If you prefer metric units, that’s about 305 mm, 381 mm, 457 mm, 610 mm, and so on.

Here’s a quick example:

• Height: 34.5 inches (36 with countertop)
• Depth: 24 inches
• Width: 12–48 inches

When planning your kitchen, keep in mind the workflow — stove, sink, and fridge should form a triangle, and these standard base sizes make that design smooth and efficient.

Standard Wall (Upper) Kitchen Cabinet Sizes

Now look up. Wall cabinets are what make your kitchen look taller and more polished. These cabinets hang above the countertop and are great for storing dishes, spices, or glassware.

The standard height options are 30, 36, and 42 inches (about 76, 91, and 107 cm). The taller ones are perfect if you have high ceilings, while shorter ones give you space for a decorative backsplash or under-cabinet lighting.

Depth is typically 12 inches (30 cm) — that’s shallow enough so you can reach plates without bumping your head. Some special cabinets, like the ones above the fridge, can go up to 24 inches deep.

Widths usually range from 12 to 36 inches. A 30-inch cabinet, for instance, fits perfectly over most ranges. If you’re mixing cabinet sizes, keep the upper ones proportionate to the base units for balance.

When I installed my own upper cabinets, I left an 18-inch gap between the countertop and the bottom of the cabinet. That’s pretty standard — tall enough for small appliances like coffee makers, yet low enough to reach your cups easily.

Standard Tall / Pantry / Utility Cabinet Sizes

Tall cabinets are the giants of the kitchen — perfect for storing brooms, cleaning supplies, or dry goods. These reach from the floor almost to the ceiling.

Heights usually come in 84, 90, and 96 inches (213, 229, and 244 cm). If your ceiling is 8 feet high, the 96-inch option gives a built-in, seamless look. For lower ceilings, go for 84 inches so there’s breathing space above.

Depth comes in either 12 inches (30 cm) for shallow storage or 24 inches (61 cm) for full-depth pantries. Widths vary from 18 to 36 inches depending on what you plan to store.

A good trick I learned from a designer friend — if you’re tight on space, go for a 24-inch-deep tall cabinet with adjustable shelves. You’ll be amazed how much it holds without feeling bulky.

Standard Kitchen Cabinet Size Chart (Inches | CM | MM)

It helps to visualize everything, so here’s a quick summary chart you can use when planning or shopping. You can even create your own version as a standard kitchen cabinet sizes chart pdf for easy reference.

Cabinet Type	Height	Depth	Width
Base Cabinets	34.5″ (36″ w/ top) / 87–91 cm	24″ / 61 cm	12–48″ / 30–122 cm
Wall Cabinets	30″, 36″, 42″ / 76–107 cm	12″ / 30 cm	12–36″ / 30–91 cm
Tall Cabinets	84″, 90″, 96″ / 213–244 cm	12″ or 24″ / 30–61 cm	18–36″ / 45–91 cm

Having a chart like this near your drawing or on your phone can help you avoid confusion when comparing models in stores or online.

Kitchen Cabinet Sizes in Metric Units (MM, CM, and Feet)

If you’re working with metric measurements, don’t worry — the logic is the same, only the numbers change. For example:

• Base cabinet height: 870 mm (910 mm with countertop)
• Wall cabinet height: 760–1070 mm
• Tall cabinet height: 2130–2440 mm

Depths remain consistent at around 600 mm for base cabinets and 300 mm for wall units. For reference, 1 foot equals roughly 30.5 cm, so you can also express sizes in feet when comparing with local catalogs.

Metric sizing is common in Europe and Asia, where cabinets are often built in 100-mm increments. This modular approach makes it easy to fit spaces precisely without waste.

How to Measure Your Kitchen for the Right Cabinet Sizes

Grab your tape measure — this part is fun and super important. Start by measuring wall lengths, ceiling height, and any obstacles like doors or windows. Note where appliances will go, especially your fridge and oven.

Here’s how I do it step by step:

1. Measure from the floor to the ceiling.
2. Mark 36 inches (or 91 cm) for countertop height.
3. From that line, measure 18 inches up — that’s where your wall cabinets start.
4. Then mark the top of your wall cabinets, depending on their height (30, 36, or 42 inches).

Don’t forget the corners. Leave at least 42 inches of walkway between counters or an island so two people can move comfortably. And remember to check that walls are straight — older homes sometimes have subtle slopes that can throw off alignment.

When Standard Sizes Don’t Work: Custom Cabinet Solutions

Sometimes, no matter how carefully you plan, standard cabinets just don’t fit right. Maybe your ceiling is lower than normal or you need more counter space for baking. That’s where custom or semi-custom cabinets come in.

When I helped a friend redo her kitchen in a 1950s home, we had to trim two base cabinets by half an inch because the floor wasn’t level. Small adjustments like that make a huge difference. Custom options also help if you’re taller or shorter than average — you can raise or lower the base cabinets for comfort.

Of course, custom work costs more, but it can make your kitchen feel truly yours. If you’re mixing standard and custom pieces, just make sure the face frames line up evenly.

Expert Tips and Best Practices for Choosing Cabinet Sizes

Here are some tried-and-true lessons from years of kitchen projects:

• Keep symmetry in mind: Repeating widths (like two 30-inch cabinets) looks cleaner than random mixes.
• Plan around your appliances: Leave enough clearance for oven doors and refrigerator swing.
• Think about what you’ll store: Deep drawers for pots, shallow ones for utensils.
• Mind your ergonomics: If you constantly reach too high or bend too low, cooking becomes tiring.

One of my favorite tricks — if you’re short on upper cabinet reach, install open shelves on one side. They break up the look and make everyday items easier to grab.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Planning Cabinet Sizes

Even professionals can slip up when it comes to sizing. Here are a few mistakes you should avoid:

• Over-deep upper cabinets that block your counter workspace.
• Forgetting to leave space between cabinet runs and an island.
• Ignoring the countertop overhang — that extra inch matters.
• Mixing metric and imperial measurements in the same plan.

A quick double-check with your tape measure before ordering can prevent costly errors. Trust me, you don’t want to discover a cabinet door that can’t open because it hits your fridge handle.

How Kitchen Cabinet Size Standards Evolved

Back in the day, kitchens were mostly made up of freestanding furniture. As homes modernized, manufacturers started creating built-in cabinets to make kitchens more functional.

In the 20th century, ergonomics research set the now-familiar countertop height around 36 inches — ideal for most adults. From there, other measurements followed naturally so everything fit together neatly.

Today’s modular systems are a result of decades of refinement, blending practicality with aesthetics. That’s why these “standard” sizes have stood the test of time.

Regional Differences: U.S., U.K., and Metric Systems

If you look at cabinet catalogs in the U.K. or Australia, you’ll see sizes in millimeters rather than inches. While American base cabinets are 34.5 inches tall, European ones often start around 720 mm (about 28 inches) plus a countertop and legs, totaling roughly 36 inches overall.

Metric kitchens often follow 100-mm increments — it’s a cleaner way to design precise layouts. So if you’re importing cabinets or using European plans, just make sure to convert carefully to avoid misalignment.

Accessibility and Universal Design Considerations

Not every kitchen user has the same height or mobility. That’s why accessibility-friendly design has become so important. Lowering upper cabinets or adding pull-down racks can make a world of difference for seniors or wheelchair users.

Base cabinets can also be modified to 32 inches high for seated use. I once helped redesign a small accessible kitchen with adjustable shelves — it turned out beautiful and practical at the same time.

When planning, always think about comfort first. A functional kitchen is one that works for everyone who uses it.

Cost Comparison: Standard vs Custom Cabinet Sizing

Standard cabinets are more affordable because they’re pre-made in bulk. You can walk into a store, pick the sizes, and have them installed quickly. Custom cabinets, on the other hand, are built to your exact measurements, so they take more time and labor.

If you’re on a budget, stick with standard widths and adjust your design around them. For instance, fill unused space with narrow pull-out racks or open shelving instead of resizing everything.

A good balance is semi-custom — you can tweak a few dimensions while keeping most parts standard. That gives you a tailored fit without blowing the budget.

Future Trends in Kitchen Cabinet Dimensions

Cabinet design keeps evolving with how people use their kitchens. Today, modular systems and smart storage solutions are becoming more common. You’ll see adjustable heights, slim drawers for gadgets, and deeper pantries for bulk items.

Compact homes are also influencing designs — expect slimmer depths (like 21-inch bases) and flexible inserts that make small spaces feel bigger. Eco-friendly materials and space-saving layouts are also shaping the next wave of kitchen cabinetry.

Quick Comparison Table

Cabinet Type	Standard Height	Standard Depth	Common Widths
Base Cabinets	34.5″ (36″ with countertop) / 87–91 cm	24″ / 61 cm	12–48″ / 30–122 cm
Wall Cabinets	30–42″ / 76–107 cm	12″ / 30 cm	12–36″ / 30–91 cm
Tall Cabinets	84–96″ / 213–244 cm	12″ or 24″ / 30–61 cm	18–36″ / 45–91 cm

Step-by-Step Measuring Guide

1. Measure floor-to-ceiling height.
2. Mark 36 inches (91 cm) for countertop top level.
3. Leave an 18-inch (45 cm) gap above counter for wall cabinets.
4. Note window and appliance clearances.
5. Sketch layout and check symmetry before ordering.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the standard height of kitchen cabinets in cm?

Base cabinets are about 87 cm without the countertop and 91 cm with one. Wall cabinets range from 76 to 107 cm depending on your ceiling height.

What are the typical widths for base and wall cabinets?

Base cabinets go from 12 to 48 inches wide, while wall units usually range from 12 to 36 inches.

Can I mix standard and custom cabinet sizes?

Absolutely. Many homeowners combine both to get a balanced design that fits their space and budget.

What’s the space between countertop and upper cabinets?

The standard clearance is around 18 inches or 45 cm.

Where can I get a cabinet size chart pdf?

Most cabinet manufacturers provide one online. You can also print a custom chart based on your layout for reference.

How deep should a pantry cabinet be?

Tall pantries are commonly 12 or 24 inches deep, depending on how much storage you need.

Conclusion

And that’s it — now you’ve got a full picture of std kitchen cabinet sizes. From base to wall to tall cabinets, these measurements form the foundation of every functional kitchen.

The next time you walk into your kitchen, you’ll notice how everything aligns perfectly — that’s the beauty of standard sizing. Take your time measuring, plan around your habits, and don’t be afraid to adjust where needed.

Remember, a great kitchen isn’t just about looks. It’s about flow, comfort, and how easily everything fits your daily life. So grab that tape measure, sketch your layout, and start turning your dream kitchen into reality.

Disclaimer

This article provides general guidance on standard kitchen cabinet sizes based on common U.S. and metric measurements. Dimensions may vary by manufacturer or region. Always verify exact sizes with your cabinet supplier or contractor before installation.