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As I stated before, I am installing a kitchen in my basement. I am dealing with a low ceiling height. How much clearance is required between the countertop and upper cabinets? I ready somewhere that it is between 15 and 18 inches. A friend told me it cannot be less than 18. Appreciate any replies.
Debbie, you should check local code just to be sure in case there are limitations in your area, but the current line of thinking in "smart home design" is to put the upper cabinets at 16" above the countertops. 18" was the old standard, but lower uppers are considered more ergonomics-friendly. (Remember to take into account the light rail, if you're using one.)
Or you can split the difference and put them at the 17" mark, of course.
Have you considered the horizontal upper cabs? If you've got a really tight vertical squeeze, you might be able to get more storage space in there with them.
I just looked on the KitchenAid website and their stand mixer - the Artisan, is 13 29/32 in high, the Accolade is 14 in. - those are both tilt-head stand mixers. But the bowl-lift style is taller - 16 1/2 in. for Professional 5™ Plus Series and 16 1/2 in. for the Professional 600 Series. Those are all shorter than I would have anticipated.
Thank you! You are all so awesome for taking the time to answer my questions.
I didn't know ikea made the 24 inch cabs and I do have my heart set on Ikea. I would prefer the 30 inch though for more storage in a small kitchen. Is the 16 inch doable with a kitchenaid stand mixer? I hadn't even thought of that. I went and measured mine (mother in law has the same) and it is 14". I didn't know about the horizontal cabinets either, so will have to check them out. I am going to have one problem, maybe someone here will have a solution. We are putting in a corner sink, the plumbing is already done and hubby will have a fit if I change my mind again. There is no way to do the 25x30 diagonal corner now. Even if the 30 inch will fit, I know there must be more clearance above the sink. Anyone have any ideas for this space? You all are so nice, thanks!
Maybe just open shelving above the sink? You could also use the 30" for most of the area and put a horizontal cabinet above where you would keep your kitchenaid, to give it more room. Or....a tall pantry cabinet with the kitchenaid living inside behind one of the doors?
Keep in mind that 14" is the height of the stand mixer standing. When you want to tip the head back, you'll have to pull it forward on the counter (you probably do anyway). Just thought it was worth mentioning.
Susan
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...the current line of thinking in "smart home design" is to put the upper cabinets at 16" above the countertops. 18" was the old standard, but lower uppers are considered more ergonomics-friendly. (Remember to take into account the light rail, if you're using one.)...
Anna, I want to make sure I understand: if one is going to put lights under the wall cabinets, and then hide them behind a light rail, the 16" is measured from the counter to the bottom of the light rail, not the cabinets?
I am glad to have seen this, because I was planning based on the 19" height I now have, even though I find it a bit high.
Gardenweb, Yes I actually did think of this LOL. I usually do pull mine out to use it (not often!) and I'm sure she does too.
Any ideas for corner shelving? I like the idea, but looked at the Akurum horizontal wall cabinet frame, it has a glass shelf. Size is perfect, 30L x 15H, very nice, except to do two of them in a corner wouldn't look right since they are closed on both sides. Please excuse me if my questions sound dumb, I have never ever done this before. Also, my husband is ready for the kitchen and bugging me to make up my mind already..LOL.
Maybe I should add, I am planning to use either the Stat white or Nexus Birch, haven't decided yet.
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