Kitchen Measurement Guide



DIY Design Resources

Kitchen Measurement Guide

Accurate measurements are the foundation of a successful kitchen project.

Whether you’re getting a quote or planning your own layout, precise measurements ensure your cabinets fit perfectly. Follow this step-by-step guide to measure your kitchen like a pro.

📥 Download the Printable Worksheet

Print this guide and fill it in as you measure. Bring it to your consultation or use it for your own planning.

Download PDF Worksheet

What You’ll Need

📏
Tape measure (25 ft)
📝
Paper & pencil
📐
Level (optional)
📷
Camera/phone
🪜
Step stool
👥
Helper (recommended)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1 Sketch Your Layout

Start by drawing a rough bird’s-eye view sketch of your kitchen. It doesn’t need to be to scale — just capture the basic shape and where walls, doors, and windows are located.

  • Include all walls, even partial walls or peninsulas
  • Mark doorways and which way doors swing
  • Mark windows
  • Note the location of sink, stove, and refrigerator

2 Measure Overall Wall Lengths

Measure each wall from corner to corner. Write these measurements on your sketch.

💡 Pro Tip: Measure at counter height (36″ from floor), not at the floor or ceiling. Walls aren’t always perfectly straight.
  • Measure in inches (e.g., 144″ instead of 12′)
  • Measure each wall twice to confirm accuracy
  • If walls aren’t square, note that

3 Measure Windows

For each window, record:

  • Width: Inside frame to inside frame
  • Height: Inside frame to inside frame
  • Distance from floor to bottom of window sill
  • Distance from nearest corner to edge of window frame
💡 Pro Tip: Window measurements affect how tall your upper cabinets can be above the sink. Standard is 18″ from countertop to bottom of upper cabinets.

4 Measure Doors & Openings

For each door or opening:

  • Width: Frame to frame (include trim)
  • Height: Floor to top of frame
  • Distance from nearest corner
  • Door swing direction (left or right, in or out)

5 Locate Plumbing & Electrical

Mark the location of:

  • Sink plumbing: Center of drain pipe, distance from corner and floor
  • Dishwasher location: Usually left or right of sink
  • Electrical outlets: Note all outlet locations
  • Light switches: Note locations
  • Gas line: If applicable, for range
  • Range hood/vent: Location of ductwork

6 Measure Appliance Spaces

Record the dimensions of existing appliances or the space allocated for them:

  • Refrigerator: Width, depth, height (and space above)
  • Range/Cooktop: Width (typically 30″ or 36″)
  • Dishwasher: Standard is 24″ wide
  • Microwave: If built-in or over-range

7 Measure Ceiling Height

Measure from floor to ceiling in several spots. Note if there are soffits (bulkheads) above existing cabinets.

  • Standard ceiling: Usually 96″ (8 feet)
  • Soffit depth: Distance from wall
  • Soffit height: Distance from ceiling to bottom of soffit
💡 Pro Tip: If you’re keeping the soffit, we’ll design around it. If you’re removing it, you can add taller cabinets or crown molding.

8 Take Photos

Photos help us understand your space better than measurements alone:

  • Take wide shots of each wall
  • Photograph corners where walls meet
  • Capture any unusual features (pipes, vents, angles)
  • Photo the overall kitchen from doorway

Common Measuring Mistakes to Avoid


❌ Measuring floor to ceiling only in one spot

Floors and ceilings aren’t always level. Measure in multiple locations.


❌ Forgetting to note door swing direction

Door swings affect cabinet placement. Always note which way doors open.


❌ Rounding measurements

Cabinet sizing is precise. Record exact measurements — 94½” matters.


❌ Ignoring obstacles

Pipes, vents, and electrical panels affect cabinet installation. Note everything.

Ready to Get Your Quote?

Once you’ve completed your measurements, upload them along with your photos and we’ll prepare a detailed quote for your project.

Upload Your Measurements
Schedule a Consultation


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