Designing a kitchen with Prefabricated Standard Sizes
📌 Overview
This guide teaches you how to design clean, buildable kitchens and bathrooms using prefabricated cabinetry systems. You’ll learn how to work within manufacturer constraints using:
Standard sizes
Fillers
End panels
Appliance clearances
Corner cabinet configurations
1. Standard Cabinet Sizes
🔑 Base Cabinets
Widths: 9", 12", 15", 18", 21", 24", 27", 30", 33", 36", 39", 42"
Height: 34.5" (without countertop)
Depth: 24" (21" for vanity)
🔑 Wall Cabinets
Heights: 9”, 12", 15", 18", 24", 30", 36", 42"
Depth: 12" (standard)
🔑 Tall Cabinets
Widths: 18", 24", 30", 36"
Heights: 84", 90", 96"
Always verify available sizes with the manufacturer you’re using.
2. End Panels: Where They’re Needed
End panels are required:
Everywhere there is an exposed cabinet side
Next to appliances like refrigerators, dishwashers, and ranges
On islands and peninsulas
Anytime a cabinet side will be visible after installation
🔍 Note: End panels add ¾" thickness per panel — account for this in your total run.
3. Appliance Clearances
Leave the proper extra space around appliances to ensure smooth installation and door operation:
Refrigerator: Leave 1" extra between the fridge and any adjacent cabinet or end panel.
Range (freestanding or slide-in): Leave 1" extra on each side between the range and adjacent cabinets or panels, unless it’s specifically designed for a tight fit.
Dishwasher:
Standard: Leave exactly 24"
Compact: Leave exactly 18"
Microwave drawer or wall oven: Always follow manufacturer specs, but generally allow for 1/2" to 1" of clearance around the unit and adequate ventilation space behind.
🔍 Always double-check the appliance spec sheet for clearance, venting, and installation requirements — they can vary significantly between brands.
4. Use Fillers to Make It Fit
Fillers are narrow strips used to make cabinets fit properly within the space and avoid binding.
Common Sizes: 3" or 6"
Placement: Near walls, corners, and appliances
Clearance Tip: Always add 1.5” filler next to a wall to avoid issues with opening doors
Avoid using more than 6” total filler in a run. If you need more, reconfigure your layout.
5. Make It Fit: Space Planning
When designing wall-to-wall or L-shaped layouts:
Add up cabinet widths
Include fillers and end panels
Leave proper appliance clearances
Adjust cabinet mix if needed
Wall and tall cabinets should be lined up at the top
6. Corner Cabinet Guidelines
Corner cabinets require special attention — especially if appliances are nearby.
⚠️ Warning:
Be cautious placing appliances in or near corners. Many appliances are deeper than the cabinets, which can cause:
Door swing collisions
Difficulty opening drawers
Common Corner Cabinet Types:
🔸 Base Cabinets:
Lazy Susan: 36" x 36" with two spinning trays; fits fully into the corner.
Blind Corner: One cabinet extends into the corner, partially hidden behind a facing cabinet. Requires a filler (typically 6") to clear the door swing.
🔸 Wall Cabinets:
Blind Corner Wall: Similar principle to base blind corner.
Wall Corner Cabinet: A 90-degree corner cabinet (often 24"x24") that wraps around the corner.
Plan early for corner cabinets, and always measure both walls. Improper corner layout is one of the most common install issues.
✅ 7. Best Practices Checklist
Used only standard cabinet sizes
Added required fillers (1.5" min near walls)
Included end panels on all exposed sides
Left 1" clearance for ranges/fridges
Left exact space for dishwashers (24"/18")
Checked door swings won’t clash
Selected appropriate corner cabinet type
Confirmed all components are in the product line
8. Other Key Tips
🧠 Toe Kicks
Often shipped separately. Confirm if integrated or separate and plan for color match.
🧠 Countertop Overhangs
Standard overhang is 1"–1.5" past cabinet face.
Don’t design flush countertop edges unless requested.
🧠 Symmetry
Symmetrical layouts feel higher-end. Center sinks, hoods, and appliances when possible.
🧠 Panels for Built-In Look
Add panels to both sides of refrigerators, ovens, or microwaves to create a built-in effect.
🧠 Check Ceiling Heights
Especially for 42” wall cabinets or tall pantry units. Confirm ceiling is level if going full height.