Standard Size of Counter Tops

Standard Sizes

• Kitchen countertops typically measure between 25 and 26 inches deep, with 25 1/2 inches being the most common, and vary in length depending on the location of installation. Normally 36 inches tall in the kitchen, countertops for bathroom vanities average between 18 and 21 inches deep and 33 to 33 1/2 inches tall.

Kitchen Work Centers

• Custom kitchen countertops meet the needs of various kitchen work centers. According to the National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA), the area around the sink requires a minimum 18-inch-wide counter on one side and at least a 24-inch counter on the other to provide room for a dish drying rack. To give cooks room to set pans and ingredients within easy reach, the countertops should be a minimum of 12 inches wide on one side of the range and at least 15 inches on the opposite side. For countertop microwave ovens, allow a minimum 15 inches of counter top space to accommodate the open door. The recommended counter space next to the refrigerator calls for at least 15 inches as well.

Recommended Counter Placement

• In addition to consideration of counter depth and area, the countertops should be installed a minimum of 32 inches from the nearest dining table or food preparation island. To easily open, close, load and unload dishwashers, allow 20 inches between the appliance and opposite countertop and place the appliance no more than 36 inches from the nearest sink edge. Most kitchen chairs need at least 36 inches clearance between them and the nearest counter to be easily moved back and forth.

Custom Counters

• If your kitchen design needs cannot be met with pre-fab countertops, have a custom cabinetmaker cut them to the desired dimensions or cut your own from slabs obtained from a countertop manufacturer. Cabinets can also be designed in different heights for easier access by children, wheelchair users and extraordinarily tall people but will need further modifications to accommodate standard-size appliances such as dishwashers and stoves designed to neatly fit between 36-inch-tall cabinets.