Kitchen Cabinetry Specifications: A Guide For Designers

Designing a kitchen involves numerous decisions, and one of the most critical aspects is the cabinetry. For designers, understanding the standard kitchen cabinet dimensions is essential to creating kitchen cabinet storage ideas that optimise your space at an affordable price. This guide aims to provide you with different types of kitchen cabinet materials to ensure that your designs stand the test of time.

The importance of kitchen cabinet specifications

Before you brainstorm kitchen storage ideas for cabinets, specifications are essential to planning to help you achieve a seamless and efficient design. Specifications refer to the detailed description of kitchen cabinet materials, dimensions, hardware and kitchen cabinet finishes. 

Proper specifications help avoid common issues such as misalignment, inadequate storage and poor accessibility. They also play a significant role in the overall durability and performance of the cabinetry. By focusing on accurate specifications, designers can ensure that the kitchen looks great and functions efficiently.
Whether you’re researching above kitchen cabinet storage ideas or corner kitchen cabinet storage ideas, we’re here to provide you with the step-by-step guide you need to plan your kitchen layout.

What are the standard kitchen cabinet dimensions?

The standard height for kitchen cabinets and benchtops is 900mm, varying between 850 and 1000mm, depending on your preference. The depth of a benchtop is typically 600mm, with most builders advising you to consider your fridge size when determining your kitchen layout. While fridges can range in depth, most average at about 700mm or more, with a large French Door fridge coming to about 924mm depth. For upper cabinets, a nifty tall kitchen cabinet storage idea is to have the cabinet go right to the ceiling to avoid dust build-up above the cabinets. The upper cabinet should not exceed the depth of the base cabinet. 

Key considerations in cabinetry design

Designing kitchen cabinetry involves several important considerations:

Layout — The cabinetry layout should complement the overall kitchen design and enhance workflow efficiency. This includes thoughtfully placing cabinets for easy access to utensils, appliances and food items.
Style — Whether your kitchen is Hamptons-style, Scandinavian or country chic, the best material to build kitchen cabinets is one that is not only high-quality but also aligns with the home’s architectural theme. (More on that below.)
Detailing — Attention to detail in design elements, such as door styles and kitchen cabinet finishes, can significantly impact the final look and feel of the kitchen.
Functionality — Ensure that the design idea for kitchen cabinet storage is accessible while maintaining an appealing aesthetic.

Different types of kitchen cabinet materials

The choice of materials for kitchen cabinets greatly influences their appearance, durability and maintenance requirements. Common materials include:

Solid wood — Solid wood is highly durable and has a timeless appeal, but it can be expensive and prone to warping if not properly treated.
Plywood — This cost-effective alternative provides good durability and resistance to moisture.
Medium-density fibreboard (MDF) — While this option is affordable, it may not offer the same level of durability as solid wood or plywood.
Particleboard — This engineered wood is manufactured from wood chips and a synthetic resin. While economical, it is low-water-resistant and damages more easily than solid wood or plywood.

Kitchen cabinet finishes to choose from

For finishes, designers can choose from various options:

Paint — Choose from a wide range of colours that can easily be refreshed down the line.
Stain — Enhance the natural beauty of the wood with a stain finish while providing protection.
Laminate — Durable and easy to clean, laminate is available in numerous styles.

Kitchen hardware for cabinets

Hardware plays a crucial role in the functionality and longevity of kitchen cabinetry. This includes:

Hinges — Hinges ensure the smooth opening and closing of doors. Soft-close hinges are a thoughtful addition to prevent slamming.
Drawer runners — For smooth and silent operation, the AvanTech YOU Drawer Runner offers exceptional performance and a slim, stylish design with all screws and fixtures hidden. This versatile system, crafted in Germany using top-grade steel, allows for easy customisation with various colour options and material choices to suit any interior style.
To further upgrade your kitchen’s functionality, the AvanTech YOU Drawer Runner system can be integrated with the LightTower solution. This feature provides integrated LED lighting within the drawer, automatically illuminating the drawer’s interior when opened so you can see where your contents are stored. 
Handles and knobs — From minimalist designs to more ornate options, your cabinet’s opening mechanism should add to the overall design without compromising functionality. The ProDecor Handles collection offers many high-quality options that are crafted to combine aesthetic appeal with ergonomic comfort, durability and ease of use. 
Wireware — Optimise your kitchen and maximise storage space with wireware solutions. These precision-engineered wire baskets, trays and racks feature robust construction, ensuring every inch of your space is utilised efficiently to keep items like cookware and pantry staples within easy reach.
Waste solutions — From pull-out bins to refined waste disposal systems with stainless steel foot pedals, these solutions are engineered for seamless integration into your cabinetry. They’re easy to remove and clean, offering hygienic, space-saving waste management options to keep your kitchen clutter-free. 

Find the kitchen hardware for cabinets you need from Hettich

At Hettich, we offer a comprehensive range of innovative interior design hardware for residential and commercial projects. Our commitment to durability and top-quality German engineering ensures that our hardware can withstand daily use, providing long-term performance and reliability. View our extensive product range in person at any of our showrooms, or check out our projects for ideas on how to elevate your kitchen cabinetry designs to the next level. For local stockists, you can find a Hettich dealer near you or partner with a skilled cabinetmaker or joiner for your next project. 

Visit your nearest Hettich showroom to explore our products and design trends at your own pace. Read our newsletter for the latest business updates, or contact our team if you have any questions — we’re more than happy to help.