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What Is the Size of a Standard Kitchen Room?

A kitchen remodel is among the most profitable investments a homeowner can make. When done properly, the space should be both aesthetically appealing and functional. The first step to any kitchen remodeling project is knowing the dimensions you'll be working with. These measurements will help you make appropriate decisions when it comes to cabinet and appliance sizes. Purchasing these pieces in the correct proportions will leave more space for easy movement when entertaining and preparing food.
  1. Layout

    • During the layout phase of a remodel, knowing precise dimensions aren't necessary. A rough sketch of the layout should include placement of cabinets, appliances and fixtures. This type of sketch is used primarily to do cost estimates for materials and cabinets and deciding on a basic layout. Use rough dimensions and draw up a few design options, this will help determine which layout is best for the space without a great deal of effort.

    Standard Room Measurements

    • The actual size of the space is going to vary greatly depending on the size of the home. According to dimensionsguide.com, the average dimensions of a kitchen give approximately 300 square feet of space. It is important to remember that there is no standard square footage, and apartments and townhomes will generally be smaller than single family homes. There are a few measurements will be more or less standard throughout all construction projects. Average room height, according to runmyhouse.com, is 96 inches. Door widths are normally 36 inches, and door heights are normally 84 inches. These measurements are a good starting point for a kitchen remodel, and specific guides for measuring the width and length of the space are available online. When drawing out the layout with these specific measurements, it is important to label interior and exterior walls and the locations of electrical outlets, windows, doors and soffits, if applicable.

    Basic Appliance Dimensions

    • For the most part, kitchen appliances, including the refrigerator, range and dishwasher, have fairly standard measurements no matter the manufacturer. Additionally, most major manufacturers will produce products in a smaller and larger size ideal for different size spaces. A standard dishwasher is between 24 and 30 inches wide, 25 inches deep and 34 inches tall. Compact options for apartments or townhomes are available as narrow as 18 inches wide, 22 1/2 inches deep and 32 1/2 inches in height. Both electric and gas ranges come in a standard 30-inch width, with a wide variety of depths and heights. More compact options are as narrow as 20 inches wide, and larger sizes are as wide as 40 inches. The size of a refrigerator is going to depend largely on the style -- there are side-by-side models, or those with a top- or bottom-mounted freezer. Side-by-side styles are standard at 32 inches wide and 66 inches tall, while bottom freezer designs are about 30 inches wide and 66 or 67 inches tall. Top freezer models are approximately 28 inches wide and 61 1/2 inches tall.

    Movement Dimensions

    • Designing a kitchen that provides for comfortable movement is an essential element in a successful remodel. A kitchen that is well set up will not only have a layout that is efficient for work, but also allows for movement of the cook and guests. The rule of thumb is to create walkways that are at least 24 inches wide. The refrigerator door should have at least 36 inches of uninterrupted space. This measurement takes into account the open door and provides space for someone to stand in front of the fridge. A kitchen island should have at least a 24-inch clearance on all sides. This will allow space for work, movement and eating in, if desired. Oven and dishwasher doors should have at least 48 inches in front to allow the doors to fully open.