kitchen island spacing from cabinets??? - Contractor Talk - Professional Construction and Remodeling Forum

CronenBuilding · 02-10-2009, 11:20 PM

I'm just wondering if there is a recommended spacing between the base cabinets and a kitchen island. I'm thinking 3 feet?

**Teetorbilt** · 02-10-2009, 11:31 PM

36" will have you ADA approved and I go to 38"+ just to be on the safe side.

ADA will be a large factor in the near future as the baby boomers (me) retire.

Just re-read your post. 36" is total clearance so bases need to be -countertop overhang.

**Leo G** · 02-10-2009, 11:38 PM

36" between the countertops is a minimum, space saving if you will. I like to try for at least 42".

KitchenSync · 02-11-2009, 12:15 AM

Try to leave 42" of space if you can. Here's the reason: Some refrigerators are almost 32" deep, leaving you with +/- 29" walkway at that area. If it's a 36" wide single-door refrigerator, the door will never open fully against the island.

Your mileage may vary.

If there are two cooks in the kitchen, the minimum recommendation is 48"-54" of clearance (usually in the larger kitchens.)

CronenBuilding · 02-14-2009, 12:55 AM

Thanks a lot for the useful information. i apprerciate it.

DesPro · 02-14-2009, 05:14 AM

Here are the NKBA guidelines on clearances:

Guideline 1b. - Clarification:
If there are perpendicular walkways, one should be a minimum of 42" wide.
c. Work aisles (passages between vertical objects, both of which are work counters or appliances)
should be at least 42" wide in one-cook kitchens, at least 48" wide in multiple-cook kitchens.

more info here http://www.nkba.org/guidelines/kitchen_6.aspx