What Is the Height of a Kitchen Counter?

Kitchen counters are typically designed at a standard height that conforms to mass-produced appliances such as ovens and dishwashers. The vast majority of homes and apartments will adhere to these measurements unless custom designed.

Standard Counters

The standard kitchen counter is 36 inches high. Typical counters have a depth of 24 or 25 inches. Counters with an overhang for stool seating should extend at least 12 inches for comfort.

Considerations

Kitchens designed for handicapped people who must access the counters in wheelchairs, often feature counters at a lower height. Typical heights for handicapped users are 28 or 32 inches.

Comfort

For those who cook often, custom counters can be ordered at a slightly higher or lower height to make food preparation easier and more comfortable. For example, the 6-foot, 2-inch cooking legend Julia Child, had her counters designed 2 inches taller than standard.

References

• "Interiors, an Introduction: Third Edition"; Karla J. Nielson and David A. Taylor; 2002
• "Taunton's Family Home Idea Book"; Julie Stillman and Jane Gitlin; 2003
• K+BB: Ready, Set, Remodel: Rethinking Julia Child's Kitchen