The spacing between base kitchen cabinets can depend on a few factors, including your kitchen layout, the size of the cabinets, and any specific requirements or preferences you might have. However, there are some general guidelines you can follow to ensure practical and aesthetically pleasing spacing:
Minimum Space Requirements: It's generally recommended to leave at least 36 inches (91 cm) of floor space between the face of one base cabinet and the face of another base cabinet. This distance provides enough space for people to move comfortably in the kitchen and allows for easy access to the cabinets.
Working Space: Make sure to leave adequate working space around major kitchen appliances, such as the stove, dishwasher, and refrigerator. The National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA) recommends leaving at least 15 inches (38 cm) of countertop space on one or both sides of the stove for food preparation.
Corner Cabinets: If your kitchen design includes corner base cabinets, consider using a Lazy Susan or pull-out shelves to maximize storage and access to the corner space efficiently.
Island or Peninsula Layouts: If you have a kitchen island or peninsula, leave enough space (typically 42-48 inches or 107-122 cm) between the cabinets and the island to allow for comfortable movement and traffic flow.
Customization: Depending on your personal preferences and the specifics of your kitchen design, you may adjust the spacing slightly to suit your needs. For instance, you might leave more space between certain cabinets to accommodate larger appliances or create specific functional areas.
Remember that these guidelines are not strict rules, but they offer a starting point for planning your kitchen layout. The best approach is to measure your available kitchen space, consider the dimensions of your cabinets and appliances, and then adjust the spacing to optimize functionality and flow within your kitchen. If you're working with a kitchen designer or contractor, they can help you create a layout that maximizes both storage and usability.