What Are Suitable Kitchen Dimensions? How to Make Every Inch Count!

Before diving into layouts and zones, it’s essential to understand the standard kitchen dimensions that balance comfort, functionality, and flow.

Whether you’re renovating, building new, or optimizing a small kitchen size in meters or feet, having the right kitchen measurements in mind can make all the difference.

man measuring kitchen

Not only do proper dimensions boost usability and everyday efficiency, but they also enhance the overall value of your home, making it more attractive to future buyers who often ask about the typical size of a kitchen before purchase.

Kitchen Dimensions Chart

Kitchen TypeDimensions in Sq Ft.Notes
Small KitchenLess than 70 sq ftCommon in apartments, condos
Medium KitchenAround 100 sq ftAverage for single-story homes
Large KitchenMore than 200 sq ftFound in luxury or multi-story homes
Average U.S. Kitchen Size161 – 174 sq ftSingle- vs Multi-story home average (NKBA data)
Minimum for Full Kitchen70 sq ftWith stove, sink, oven, dishwasher, and refrigerator

Kitchen ComponentStandard Dimensions
Standard Kitchen (Feet)13 x 13 ft
Standard Kitchen (Meters)4 x 4 m
Kitchen Island40 x 80 in or 1 x 2 m (requires 150 sq ft room size)
Modular Counter Height36 in (0.92 m)
Modular Base Cabinet Depth24 in (61 cm)
Wall Cabinet Depth12 in (30 cm)

What are the Standard Kitchen Dimensions?

The standard kitchen dimensions in feet are around 13 x 13 ft — often referred to as the standard size of kitchen or standard kitchen size.

In metric, this is roughly 4 x 4 meters (a common answer when people ask is a 4×4 meter kitchen a good size? ✅).

If you’re working in centimeters, that’s 400 x 400 cm, and in millimeters, 4000 x 4000 mm — useful for those searching for standard kitchen dimensions in cm or even “how big is a nice kitchen in mm” ✅.

In the U.S., the average kitchen size is:

  • 161 sq ft for single-story homes (sometimes called the average kitchen dimensions for compact properties)
  • 174 sq ft for multi-story homes

Many homeowners also ask: what is the standard square footage of a kitchen? — in most cases, anything between 150–175 sq ft is considered standard kitchen size USA ✅.

📌Related Read: What are corner kitchen cabinet dimensions?

What is the Minimum Size of a Kitchen?

The minimum size of a kitchen is typically around 70 sq ft — which many experts also list as the normal minimum for kitchen or small standard kitchen size.

In metric terms, this is roughly 6.5 m², making it ideal for small kitchen dimensions in apartments, condos, and other compact homes.

If you’re looking for small kitchen size in meters, anything between 6–8 m² is considered functional for a small standard kitchen, while small kitchen average size in the U.S. sits around 70–100 sq ft depending on layout.

Some buyers wonder, is 70 sq ft enough for kitchen? — and the answer is yes, especially if you incorporate space-saving layouts and multi-purpose appliances.

Tip: For compact spaces, consider a countertop depth that suits your layout — the counter dimensions in meters for small kitchens often range from 0.6–0.7 m to maximize workspace without crowding the cooking area.

Explore space-saving solutions like this Mini Dishwasher for Small Kitchens and PortableCooking Range.


what is a typical kitchen size in square meters in an apartment in toronto?

In a typical Toronto apartment, the average kitchen size in meters ranges from 6 to 10 m² (approximately 65 to 110 sq ft).

This falls within what many designers would call a medium kitchen size for apartments.

Here’s a breakdown based on apartment type:

  • Studio or bachelor apartments: ~4 to 6 m² — considered compact or small kitchen dimensions.
  • 1-bedroom apartments: ~6 to 8 m² — falls into the small to medium overall kitchen dimensions category.
  • 2-bedroom apartments: ~8 to 10 m² — a good size for a kitchen in meters, offering space for more cabinetry and prep areas.
  • Luxury or newly renovated units: may exceed 12 m², which many would consider a large kitchen size for an apartment.

People often ask, Is a 12 square meter kitchen big?” — in apartment settings, yes, this is generally considered a generous layout.

These kitchens are often open-concept, integrated into the living area to save space, and may feature galley kitchen dimensions or L-shaped layouts to maximize efficiency.

What is Considered a Full Kitchen?

A full kitchen includes all the essential components needed for cooking, cleaning, and storage:

While there’s no single exact size of kitchen requirement for this setup, most designers recommend allowing at least 70 sq ft (about 6.5 m²) to fit these appliances comfortably.

For height guidelines, the standard kitchen height in meters is about 0.9 m for counters and 2.1–2.3 m for overhead cabinets.

In inches and feet, that’s roughly 36 inches / 3 feet for counters and 7–7.5 feet for upper cabinets ✅.

These measurements help maintain ergonomic comfort while ensuring a good size for a kitchen in meters or feet that works for everyday cooking.

What are the Three Types of Kitchens?

Based on home size, the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) breaks down kitchen sizes and layouts as follows:

  • Homes <2,000 sq ft → Kitchen size: 195 sq ft
  • Homes 2,000–2,900 sq ft → Kitchen size: 288 sq ft
  • Homes >3,000 sq ft → Kitchen size: 424 sq ft

When planning, keep in mind that a square kitchen dimension — for example, 13 x 13 ft (about 4 x 4 m) — is often considered a balanced, standard kitchen size.

Anything significantly larger moves into “what are the dimensions for a large kitchen” territory ✅.

These layouts can be applied across various shapes, whether U-shaped, L-shaped, or galley kitchen dimensions, with proportions adjusted to fit the available space.

What are Kitchen Dimensions with an Island?

For most layouts, a standard kitchen island measures around 4 ft (1.2 m) long and 2 ft (0.6 m) deep. If you’re adding stools, plan for 24 inches (61 cm) of width per seat.

Around the island, you should leave 36–48 inches (0.9–1.2 m) of clearance for smooth movement — this falls in line with kitchen dimension standards for traffic flow.

As for counter dimensions in meters, the average depth is about 0.6 m, but larger kitchens may opt for 0.75–0.9 m for extra prep space.

In other words, if you’re wondering how big is a kitchen counter in meters, most are between 60 cm and 90 cm deep, depending on style.

In compact homes, a small kitchen with an island might have the counter reduced to 0.5 m depth — or even opt for a movable cart — but always ensure you maintain proper cooking area dimensions in feet for comfort and safety.

📌Related Read: Size of Kitchen Island

Can a Small Kitchen Have an Island?

Yes! In small kitchens, a square-shaped island (about 40 x 40 inches) can work — especially if it includes a sink or stovetop.

GDLF Island with Sink

What is the Standard Size for a Kitchen Counter?

The standard kitchen counter dimensions are typically 24 inches (61 cm) deep and 36 inches (0.9 m) high.

This height matches the standard kitchen height in meters for comfortable prep and cooking.

For depth, the normal minimum for kitchen counters is 24 inches, but in some layouts, especially larger kitchens, you may see nomal kitchen slab width foot measurements up to 30 inches (76 cm).

In homes with expansive layouts, you might even have kitchen slab 13 ft measurements running along a wall, providing ample workspace and storage.

The standard width for kitchen counters typically falls between 2–2.5 feet (60–76 cm), while island counters can be deeper for seating.

These measurements balance comfort, reach, and storage capacity, ensuring a counter size that works for both small and large kitchens.

What are Outdoor Kitchen Dimensions?

  • Small: 10 linear feet with grill, stovetop, sink, and basic storage
  • Essential: 13 linear feet + fridge & 48″ counter
  • Mid-sized: 16 linear feet + 72″ counter
  • Large: >20 linear feet + 156″ counter, all 4 zones included

What are Mud Kitchen Dimensions?

Mud kitchens for kids usually start around a 22″ x 33″ basin.
Add a basic work surface, shelves, and sink area around that.

What are Galley Kitchen Dimensions?

A galley kitchen typically measures 7–12 feet (2.1–3.6 m) wide with a length ranging from 10–20 feet (3–6 m), depending on the home’s layout.

If you’re asking what are the dimensions of a galley kitchen, the size of average galley in meters is about 2.5 m wide by 4–6 m long.

This provides enough clearance for two parallel countertops and a central walkway.

In compact homes, a small galley layout can be as narrow as 1.8 m wide, while larger homes may have wider versions with an island extension. In every case, the goal is to keep the cooking area dimensions in feet or meters functional and ergonomic.

Whether short or long, galley kitchens shine in efficiency — every appliance and storage area is within easy reach.

What are U-Shaped Kitchen Dimensions?

  • Width: 9 to 12 feet (2.7–3.7 m)
  • Area: Around 107 sq ft (10 m²)

What are the Measurements of a Small Kitchen?

A small kitchen size in meters typically falls between 3×3 m (9 m²) and 4×4 m (16 m²). In feet, that’s roughly 70–120 sq ft.

If you’re wondering what are the measurements of a small kitchen, most fall below 100 sq ft, with the average size of a small kitchen in m being around 8–10 m².

Is a 4×4 meter kitchen a good size? Yes — at 16 m² (172 sq ft), it offers more flexibility for storage and appliances while still being easy to work in.

On the other hand, is 70 sq ft enough for kitchen use?

It can be — especially in apartments or galley layouts — but it requires efficient planning, compact appliances, and smart storage solutions to make the most of every inch.

What is Considered a Large Kitchen?

A large kitchen is typically anything above 200 sq ft (18.5 m²), with common layouts ranging from 4×5 m (20 m²) to 6×6 m (36 m²).

So, what is considered large kitchen size?

Industry standards suggest that if your kitchen has enough space for multiple work zones, a full island, and seating, it falls into the “large” category.

Is a 12 square meter kitchen big? Not usually — at 129 sq ft, it’s more of a medium size. On the other hand, is 215 ft² / 20 m² the size of a kitchen, bedroom, or studio? That size is quite generous for a kitchen and would be considered large in most homes.

What are the dimensions for a large kitchen? A popular large kitchen layout might measure 5×4 m (215 sq ft) or larger, offering ample space for storage, cooking, and entertaining.

What are Modular Kitchen Dimensions?

Modular units follow industry standards but can be customized:

  • Countertop height: 36 inches (0.92 m)
  • Base cabinet depth: 24 inches (61 cm)
  • Wall cabinet depth: 12 inches (30 cm)
  • Wall cabinet height: 12, 30, or 36 inches

👉 Related Reading: What Are Standard Kitchen Base Cabinet Dimensions?

What is the 5-Zone Kitchen?

A 5-zone kitchen divides your kitchen into:

  • Preparation (usually island with tools)
  • Cleaning (bin → sink → dishwasher)
  • Cooking (stove + oven + pans)
  • Consumables (fridge + pantry)
  • Non-consumables (dishes, plates, utensils)

This layout improves workflow and efficiency.

Tools for every zone: Sink Caddies | Prep Stations | Drawer Organizers

What are the 5 Basic Kitchen Layouts?

  • One-Wall: All components on one wall
  • Galley/Corridor: Parallel countertops for narrow kitchens
  • L-Shaped: Two connected walls — good for larger kitchens
  • Double-L: Dual workstations for multiple users
  • U-Shaped: Three-wall layout for maximum workflow efficiency

What Size is a Standard Kitchen Cupboard?

Tall or pantry cabinets come in standard widths of 12″, 24″, and 36″.

What are Standard Kitchen Cabinet Sizes in the UK?

According to UKMA:

  • Base cabinets: 60 cm deep
  • Wall units: 30 cm deep, width in 10–15 cm increments

How Much Worktop Space Do You Need in a Kitchen?

You need at least three separate countertops, each around 4 feet long (3×4 rule):

  • One for prep
  • One for cooking
  • One for cleaning

Maximize space with a Wall-Mounted Drop Leaf Table or VEVOR Foldable Kitchen Prep Table 👇

How Much Space Should Be Between Countertop and Stove?

For a 30-inch stove, leave at least 31 inches of space — a ½ inch gap on each side.

What is the Average Width of a Kitchen Island?

Minimum size should be 40 x 40 inches or 1 x 1 meter — especially in smaller kitchens.

What is the usual length of a kitchen?

Most kitchens range between 10–20 feet (3–6 meters) in length, depending on the layout and type — from small galley kitchens to large L-shaped or U-shaped kitchens.

What is the standard square footage of a kitchen?

A standard kitchen in the U.S. is usually 150–175 sq ft (14–16 m²), but this can vary depending on home size and layout.

What is the basic standard area for a kitchen in meters?

For a functional kitchen, the minimum recommended area is around 6.5–7 m², with medium kitchens around 10–15 m² and large kitchens exceeding 18 m².

What is a small standard kitchen?

A small standard kitchen typically ranges from 65–100 sq ft (6–9 m²), ideal for apartments, condos, and compact living spaces.

What is a medium kitchen size?

Medium kitchens are generally around 100–200 sq ft (9–18 m²), offering more prep space, storage, and sometimes room for a small island.

What is the recommended kitchen size?

For most homes, a recommended kitchen size is around 12–16 m² (130–170 sq ft) to allow for multiple work zones, cabinets, and comfortable movement.

What are the general dimensions for a kitchen?

General kitchen dimensions vary by type: small kitchens: 3–4 m wide, 4–5 m long; medium kitchens: 4–5 m wide, 5–6 m long; large kitchens: 5–6 m wide, 6+ m long.

Where can I find a kitchen guide for dimensions?

Many design guides recommend planning three work zones (prep, cooking, cleaning) and maintaining 36–48 inches clearance around counters and islands.

What are typical kitchen dimensions in meters?

Kitchens range widely: small: 6–9 m², medium: 10–15 m², large: 18+ m², depending on layout and appliances.

What is the standard kitchen size in the USA?

In the U.S., the standard kitchen size is about 161–174 sq ft (15–16 m²) for single- and multi-story homes.

The Bottom Line

So, there you have it — all the tea on kitchen dimensions.

From cozy 70 sq ft small kitchens to luxurious 400+ sq ft dream spaces, knowing the numbers makes designing, renovating, or just daydreaming about your kitchen way easier.

Whether you’re all about minimalist galley vibes or big U-shaped chaos, a little planning goes a long way.

Pick the right counter height, island size, and layout, and suddenly cooking doesn’t feel like a workout — it’s vibes only.

💡 Pro tip: Measure, plan, and flex those measurements to your lifestyle. Your kitchen isn’t just a room — it’s a mood, a workspace, and the ultimate snack HQ.

📌 Related Read

What is an average size of kitchen countertop?
What Are Standard Kitchen Base Cabinet Dimensions?
What Is The Size Of A Kitchen Island?
What are corner kitchen cabinet dimensions?
Standard Kitchen Drawer Size