Suppose you intend to design a convenient kitchen space. How high your kitchen cabinets should be from the countertop is one of the most important choices when upgrading your space. The question you need to ask is, "How high should the kitchen cabinets be from the countertop?". Although 18 inches above the countertop is the usual height for upper cabinets, this might not be the ideal choice for everyone. We'll look at a few of the variables that determine how high should cabinets be from counter in this blog post, along with the advantages and disadvantages of changing it.
What Is the Standard Cabinet Height Above Counter?
While trends point out a standard height of approximately 18 inches between countertops and lower cabinet edges, it's essential to consider that this measurement can vary significantly based on factors such as cabinet design, the overall character of your home, and the specific needs of your household. Additionally, when designing or selecting counter height table legs, it's crucial to ensure they complement the desired countertop height for a balanced and functional aesthetic.
In recent years, there has been a growing inclination towards increasing this height to 20 inches or more to maximize kitchen space and create a more open feel. Ultimately, the ideal cabinet height and metal table legs counter height should be tailored to your individual hobby.
Besides, the standard upper cabinet height from the floor is 54 inches. This includes an 18-inch backsplash, a 1-and-a-half-inch thick countertop, and 34-and-a-half-inch base cabinets. You can also change each element to suit your needs.
What Factors Affect the Ideal Upper Cabinet Height?
There are several criteria that determine the optimal height of an upper cabinet height from counter, including:
The Height of Your Base Cabinets
The base cabinets, which constitute the foundational elements of a kitchen's structure, are positioned directly upon the floor, providing a sense of stability and solidity to the entire space. These cabinets typically measure 34 ½ inches inches in height, a dimension that has become standardized within the realm of kitchen design. In addition, you should also consider the height of your countertop table to balance the overall look.
The Thickness of Your Countertop
The thickness of the countertop: The countertop is the surface that is used to prepare and serve food. The thickness of your countertop also affects how much space you have above it for your upper cabinets. An average countertop is one and a half inches thick.
The Height of Your Backsplash
The backsplash's height: The vertical wall behind your countertop that is resistant to stains and splashes is called the backsplash. The height of your top cabinets will determine how much space they have above your backsplash. The standard backsplash is fifteen inches high.
Based on the provided information, the height of your upper cabinet can be calculated as follows:
= Height of Base Cabinets + Thickness of Countertop + Height of Backsplash
Assuming the dimensions of these three factors are standard, the height of cabinets above counter will be:
= 34-½ inches + 1-¼ inches + 15 inches = 50-¾ inches
It also relies on your own requirements and tastes. The cabinet height above counter that suits you and your family the best is what matters in the end. When choosing how high to place your kitchen cabinets, you might want to take accessibility, usability, style, storage capacity, and cost into account.
When Should I Adjust the Upper Cabinets?
Your cabinets should be at least 18 inches off the counter, which is a decent place to start. Small appliances can be placed on the counter beneath the cabinets at that height, but it's not the highest point possible. There are numerous reasons to elevate the cabinets higher. If you identify with any of the following, think about raising the level of your cabinets.
- Member family are grow: Your line of sight will be higher and cabinets with ordinary heights may appear odd if you and your family are taller. Raising them to a higher level makes sense if you want your daily routine to be more convenient.
- Large features in your kitchen: Do you own a huge, profound farmhouse sink? Does the pantry have a lot of space? Raising the cabinets farther, even 30 inches off the countertop, will give the room a more balanced feel and provide you more room to maneuver if your other kitchen features tend to take up too much space.
- You're looking for innovative storage solutions: Kitchens require storage, and to keep things organized, everything must have a home. Although cabinets are a necessary part of any storage space, you may also want to consider other storage choices. You may create additional wall space for shelves, hanging pots and pans, and other similar uses if you lift the kitchen cabinets.
- Cooking ranges (ovens and stoves): They are considered the highlight of most kitchens. When placing them, you should imagine how you move around the kitchen to see if it is convenient, such as to prepare food between the sink and refrigerator. More, cabinets can catch fire, arranging cooking ranges will create more space for your safety.
- Backsplash height: If you want to make a statement in your kitchen with a backsplash, consider increasing its height, from 18 inches to 20 to 24 inches for a more open and luxurious feel.
How Can You Find Out How High Your Upper Cabinets Should Be?
The best method to determine the standard cabinet height above counter is to take your own measurements with a level and tape measure. If you intend to replace the base cabinets later, you can measure it after the base cabinets are installed or before any base cabinets are installed.
Before Installing Base Cabinets
Step 1: Identify the height
Find out how tall your upper cabinets are. Although the height of standard upper cabinets might vary based on your kitchen design, they are usually 30 inches tall.
Step 2: Measure from the ceiling
Calculate the distance between the ceiling and the location of the upper cabinet top. Typically, this is situated 18 inches above the countertop.
Step 3: Measure the width
The width of the space where the top cabinets are to be fitted should be measured. Don't forget to factor in any fixtures or appliances.
Step 4: Check for Level
To make sure the space where the cabinets will be fitted is level, use a level. This is crucial for proper installation.
After Installing Base Cabinets
Step 1: Measure from the countertop
Measure up from the countertop to identify the location of the upper cabinets' bottoms after the base cabinets are placed. This is typically 18 inches.
Step 2: Check the distance
To make sure it fits your original measurements, measure the distance between the top of the base cabinet and the bottom of the upper cabinet.
Step 3: Measure the width
Again, measure the width of the area where the upper cabinets have been installed. It should match your initial measurements.
Step 4: Check for level
Lastly, make sure the installed cabinets are level by using a level. You might need to make changes if they aren't.
You can use this guide to choose the kitchen cabinet height that will work best for both function and appearance. How high should cabinets be from counter based on your needs, while 18 inches is the average. Precise measurements are essential to an effective kitchen design. For optimal outcomes, take precise measurements or seek professional advice. For more useful information for your home, please contact us via phone number +1 (323) 990-2487 or email customerservice@flowyline.com for the fastest consultation! Happy DIY-ing!