How to Measure a Kitchen for Custom Cabinets

Planning a kitchen renovation? Whether you’re ordering custom cabinets or simply exploring layout options, taking accurate measurements is the essential first step. At Boxco Studio, we’ve created a simple, homeowner-friendly guide to help you get started with confidence.

Remember, your measurements don’t have to be perfect. Your installers or general contractor will confirm all dimensions before your custom cabinetry goes into production. For now, this guide will help you gather the information we need to begin designing your space.

Step 1: Sketch Your Kitchen’s Floor Plan

To begin, draw a rough layout of your kitchen. While grid paper makes this easier, regular paper or a free online tool will also work well. Your sketch doesn’t need to be to scale—it just needs to show the general shape and layout of the room.

As you draw, be sure to include the following:

• Walls
• Doors
• Windows
• Existing appliances
• Any current cabinetry

This plan will serve as the foundation for all your measurements.

Step 2: Measure Horizontal Dimensions

Next, measure the full lengths of your walls, as well as the widths of doors and windows. These measurements ensure your new custom cabinets and appliances will fit properly.

To measure full wall lengths:

• Start in one corner of the room and move clockwise.
• Take horizontal measurements at approximately 36 inches from the floor.
• Skip over windows, doors, or appliances, but note their locations on your plan.

To measure openings:

• Record the width of each window or door by measuring from one outer trim edge to the other.
• Always include trim and molding in these measurements.

By breaking the process into segments, you’ll capture more precise details.

Step 3: Measure Vertical Dimensions

After you’ve recorded horizontal details, it’s time to measure vertically. These numbers help us determine the appropriate height for your wall cabinets.

Make sure to note the following:

• Height from the floor to the bottom of each windowsill
• Height from the windowsill to the top of the window
• Height from the top of the window to the ceiling
• Ceiling height, measured in at least three places to account for any variation

Additionally, if your kitchen has a recessed ceiling or soffit, measure its height and depth and include that on your drawing.

Tip: If your kitchen has soffits or a recessed ceiling, measure both the height and depth and label these on your plan.

Step 4: Identify Permanent Obstructions

Finally, take note of anything that can’t be moved. This includes radiators, pipes, vents, or other fixed elements. Accurately marking these items will help us plan your custom cabinetry layout more effectively and avoid costly surprises later on.

When you’re finished, you’ll have a detailed floor plan that clearly shows the structure of your kitchen. This plan becomes a critical part of your custom cabinetry project kickoff.

Still have questions? We’re happy to help you through the process. Contact us here!