Measuring for New Kitchen Cabinets: Obstructions and Final Layout

In part one of this two-part blog series, we looked into some of the basic themes to consider while measuring your kitchen for new cabinets. This is a relatively straightforward process, and having a simple idea of what’s needed and how to proceed will allow you to move through it without issue.

At AWA Kitchen Cabinets, we’re happy to offer a huge range of kitchen cabinet options that includes base cabinets, wall cabinets, oven cabinets and many others. We’ll also provide basic tips on many other parts of the cabinet process, including how to measure your space. Here are a few other general steps to follow as you’re navigating this part of your cabinet installation.

measuring kitchen cabinets layout

Noting Obstructions

We left off in part one with you taking simple horizontal and vertical measurements of the desired cabinet space. Once this has been completed, the next important step is to take note of any and all potential obstructions that might be in the way.

These can include things like windows, pipes, outlets, switches, etc. You’ll want to make a simple diagram or sketch of your kitchen space that notes these potential obstacles so that you can avoid them when making your final measurements.

If you have any questions about potential obstacles in your kitchen, our team at AWA Kitchen Cabinets would be happy to help.

Note Appliances and Utilities

Down related lines, it’s also important to make note of any appliances or utilities that might be in the way of your new cabinets.

This can include ovens, microwaves, dishwashers, refrigerators, and more. It’s important to take into account both their dimensions as well as how they’re currently being used in order to make sure that your new cabinets will be properly outfitted.

For instance, the presence of power sources or water lines might mean that you need to adjust the placement of your new cabinets. These are all simple considerations that can be made ahead of time in order to streamline the process.

Plan the Overall Layout

Now that you have a full idea of the space you’re working with as well as any potential obstructions, it’s time to start planning the overall layout of your new cabinets.

This is where you’ll really start getting into the nitty-gritty of measuring individual cabinet spaces and figuring out how everything will fit together. A lot of this process will come down to personal preference, but there are a few general guidelines you can follow.

As a rule of thumb, base cabinets should be placed 24 inches away from each other in order to allow for proper countertop space. Wall cabinets, on the other hand, can be placed up to 48 inches apart in order to give you more leeway with design.

Oven cabinets and other specialized units will have their own specific measurement requirements that you’ll need to take into account. But following these simple guidelines should give you a good foundation to start from.

And once you’ve got your layout, all that’s left is to select the cabinets that best fit your space — and you’re done!

For more on how to measure your kitchen space for new cabinets, or to learn about any of our kitchen cabinet products, speak to the team at AWA Kitchen Cabinets today.