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Kitchen islands offer more than just additional storage and prep space, they can be a place where family and friends can lend a helping hand or gather for a meal. There are many ways to incorporate an island into a kitchen and dining space. Here are our clearance recommendations for achieving the look and functionality you're going for.
Standard Seating Heights
Kitchen Chair Heights: 17” – 19”, standard 18”
Dining Room Chair Heights: 17” – 19”, standard 18”
Counter Chair Heights: 24” – 26”, standard 24”
Bar Chair Heights: 28” – 32”, standard 30”
Standard Table Heights
Kitchen Table Heights: 28” – 30”, standard 30”
Dining Table Heights: 28” – 30”, standard 30”
Counter Heights: 34” – 39”, standard 36”
Bar Table Heights: 40” – 43”, standard 42”
Walking Space
Allow for at least 36” (3ft) of walking space around a kitchen island. This will ensure there is plenty of room for movement and access to appliances and cabinets.
Any side of a kitchen island that will have seating should have a wider clearance of 42” – 44” at least. This will ensure there is plenty of walking space around chairs that are in use.
ADA Compliance
When designing any living space that has to be fully compliant with the American Disabilities Act Standards for Accessible Design (ADA Standards), it is important to review the full guide provided by the U.S. Department of Justice. That being said, there are varying degrees of abilities among people and there are many reasons why someone might want aspects of their new living space to be compliant with ADA Standards.
For a kitchen to be considered compliant with ADA standards, not only are proper clearances required, but there are also requirements for sinks, storage, workspace, and appliance placements. In regard to clearances, there are different requirements based on the shape of the kitchen.
If a kitchen has at least two entry points, it’s considered a “Pass Through Kitchen” meaning cabinets, counter space, and appliances are on opposing sides. In this scenario, 40” of cleared space is the minimum requirement. Conversely, if there is one entry point into a kitchen area and it is enclosed on three contiguous sides, it’s considered “U-Shaped”. In this scenario, 60” of cleared space is the minimum requirement to ensure there is plenty of space for someone with limited mobility to move around safely.
Table height 30"
Counter height 36"
Bar height 42"
Want more inspiration?
Check out our photo gallery for more inspiration, and find your local 1951 Cabinetry Distributor at 1951cabinetry.com/all-products/find-a-distributor. When you meet with them for the first time, ask for a copy of our product catalog and explore sample chips and doors!
You can also follow 1951 Cabinetry on Facebook, LinkedIn, and Pinterest to be the first to find out about new products and fresh design ideas.
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