Redesigning your kitchen is an exciting project, and getting the measurements right is the first crucial step. Accurate measurements ensure that your new kitchen cabinets will fit perfectly and function optimally. This guide will help you gather all the necessary information to share with your kitchen designer at TheCabinetSaver.com.

Tools and Materials You'll Need:

  • Tape measure
  • Pencil or pen
  • Graph paper or a kitchen layout template
  • Straight edge or ruler
  • Calculator
  • Camera

Step-by-Step Measuring Instructions:

Step 1: Draw a Basic Layout of Your Kitchen

  1. Outline the Room: Start by sketching a rough outline of your kitchen on graph paper. Include all walls, windows, doors, and any fixed elements such as columns or beams.
  2. Indicate Openings: Clearly mark all doorways and windows. Indicate the direction in which doors swing and note any trim or molding around these openings.

Step 2: Measure Your Walls

  1. Wall Lengths: Measure the length of each wall from corner to corner and record these measurements on your sketch.

Wall Heights: Measure the height of your walls from the floor to the ceiling. This is important for determining the size of your cabinets and for crown molding considerations

Step 3: Measure Doors and Windows

  1. Doors: Measure the width and height of each door, including the trim. Note the distance from the floor to the top of the door trim and from the edge of the door trim to the nearest corner.
  2. Windows: Measure the width and height of each window, including the trim. Note the distance from the floor to the bottom of the window trim and from the top of the window trim to the ceiling or soffit.

Step 4: Measure Appliances and Fixtures

  1. Existing Appliances: Measure the width, height, and depth of existing appliances such as your refrigerator, stove, dishwasher, and microwave. Note their positions on your sketch.
  2. Plumbing Fixtures: Measure the distance from the center of your sink to the nearest wall. Do the same for other plumbing fixtures like a dishwasher or water dispenser.

Step 5: Measure Electrical Outlets and Switches

  1. Outlet Placement: Measure the height from the floor to each electrical outlet and mark their positions on your sketch.
  2. Switches: Note the height and location of all light switches.

Step 6: Measure Miscellaneous Features

  1. HVAC Vents: Measure the size and location of any heating or cooling vents.
  2. Other Features: Note the location of any other features such as radiators, built-in shelving, or unique architectural details.

Step 7: Double-Check Your Measurements

  1. Verify: Go back over each measurement to ensure accuracy. Even small errors can significantly impact the design process.
  2. Consistency: Ensure that all measurements are consistent and clearly marked on your sketch.

Step 8: Take Photographs

  1. Visual Aid: Take photographs of your kitchen from various angles. These images can be extremely helpful for your designer to understand the space and its unique characteristics.

Here's a summary of the steps based on the guide provided by TheCabinetSaver.com:

  1. Measure Your Space: Start in the left corner and measure each wall in the space where cabinets will be installed. Record these measurements in inches on the “Floor Plan Design Grid.”
  2. Doors, Windows, and Room Openings: Measure and record the dimensions of doors, windows, and room openings. Note their positions on the grid.
  3. Obstacles: Measure and record obstacles such as electrical outlets, vents, and pipes. Include any existing or planned islands.
  4. Appliances: Measure and record the dimensions of appliances, noting their brand and model if possible.
  5. Ceiling Height: Measure the ceiling height in several spots to account for any variations. This is crucial for determining the height of wall cabinets and crown molding.
  6. Send Photos and Submit Documents: Take photos of your current space, including each wall that will contain cabinets. Submit these photos along with your measurements to here: Free Kitchen Design Request or email at [email protected]​​.

Accurate measurements are the foundation of a successful kitchen renovation. By following these steps, you can provide your kitchen designer at TheCabinetSaver.com with the precise information needed to create a beautiful and functional kitchen layout. Remember, taking your time during this initial phase can save you time and stress later in the project.

For more tips and layout examples you can download our measuring guide here: Measuring Guide. If you're ready to get started with one of our expert designers, visit us at TheCabinetSaver.com or stop by our showroom at 1503 S. Colorado Street, Salem, VA 24153.