Owens Corning
Kitchen Design Basics

There are some basic rules that must be adhered to when designing your kitchen. The following rules do not only apply to the countertop, but also in the selection of the cabinets.

Rule 1. The Countertop should be at least 16 in. deep.

Rule 2. There should be at least 24 in. of counter space on one side of the sink and at least 18 in. on the other side. If you plan on installing two sinks at least 3 in. is required on one side and 18 in. on the other.

Rule 3. There should be 15 in. to 18 in. between the countertop and the bottom of wall cabinets.

Rule 4. You should have at least 36 in. of open countertop space close to a sink for food preparation.

Rule 5. If you kitchen is open-ended, you should have at least 9 in. of counter space on one side of the range top and 15 in. on the other.

Rule 6. You will need at least 15 in. of countertop space on the latch side of a refrigerator. Have at least 15 in. of landing space and 48 inches or less across from the refrigerator

Rule 7. If the counter will serve as an eating space, you will need at least 12 in. by 24 in. space for each person to eat.

Rule 8. If two countertops meet at an entry way, allow 32 in. between their front corners.

The above rules should help avoid some of the major mistakes made when designing kitchen areas and making countertops selections.


Written by Fred Heuston, noted tile and marble expert; author
Reprinted with permission

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