Cabinet components

A basic kitchen cabinet has three main units including base cabinet, wall cabinet and countertop. The base cabinet is composed of some components attached together and fastened to the wall. It is typically 34 1/2″ high and 24″ deep. The countertop is a top surface for base cabinet with typical thickness of 1 1/2″ and depth of 25″. Wall cabinet are attached to the wall on the top of countertop with a distance between 15″ to 18″. Based on building codes, the wall cabinet should be placed at least 24″ to 30″ above the cooking unit and 22″ above the sink. Wall cabinets are available with typical depth of 12″ and typical height of 30″. However, shorter cabinets are available for specific proposes such as above sinks, refrigerators, and stoves.

Most cabinet systems are attached to wall. However, there are some freestanding cabinets called island. The islands should have enough space to allow door swing or access to large appliances. The ideal distance between the islands and other cabinets is 36″ to 42″. In some cases, islands may need a supporting frame.

Cabinet units consist of doors, drawers, and adjustable shelfs. They may need framework for additional support. Frameless cabinets are called European or Euro-style cabinets. Hinges, knobs and pulls, and door catches are some other components used in the cabinets which are available in a variety of types, shapes, sizes, and finishes. Countertops covered with plastic laminate or with natural or synthetic solid-surface materials are two common countertops from several available types. Countertops covered with plastic laminate are durable, affordable, easy-to-clean, and available in various colors and patterns. Solid-surface countertop is becoming popular in professionally designed kitchens and baths due to its attractive appearance and durability.