Standard Dimensions in Joinery: A Guide to Benchtops, Cabinets, Kitchens, and More
Imagine this: a brand new kitchen, gleaming under the downlights. The cabinets are sleek, the benchtops are stunning… but the dishwasher? It’s just a tad too tall to fit under the bench. Or worse, picture the brand-new wall oven, proudly centred, only to reveal unsightly gaps on either side because the space allocated was too large! These kitchen renovation nightmares aren't just urban legends; they're the real-life consequences of overlooked joinery conventions and a lack of understanding about standard dimensions. A seemingly small miscalculation can derail even the most carefully planned kitchen renovation, leading to costly rework, project delays, and a whole lot of frustration. Avoid these pitfalls by understanding the fundamentals of joinery.
At ASMBL, we understand that precision is paramount in custom joinery, especially when it comes to kitchen renovations. We're passionate about crafting beautiful, functional spaces, and that starts with a deep understanding of joinery conventions and standard dimensions. As specialists in custom joinery, we've seen firsthand the impact of getting the details right – or wrong – in kitchen renovations and other home improvement projects. That's why we've created this guide: to demystify the world of joinery conventions and standard dimensions in Australia, specifically as they relate to kitchen renovations, custom wardrobes, and other bespoke joinery projects.
This blog post will equip you with the knowledge you need to confidently navigate the world of custom joinery and kitchen renovation projects. We'll break down essential terms, explore common dimensions for kitchens and wardrobes, and touch on other joinery applications. Understanding these standards will empower you to communicate effectively with your joiner, avoid costly mistakes, and ultimately achieve the functionality and aesthetic you desire in your home. Whether you're planning a complete kitchen renovation, designing custom wardrobes, or simply curious about the intricacies of joinery, this guide is your essential resource. We’ll cover key aspects of custom joinery, custom wardrobes, kitchen renovations, joinery conventions, and standard dimensions, all within the context of Australian homes and building practices. Thinking of a kitchen renovation in [Your City/Region]? Read on to learn more about the essential dimensions and joinery standards that will ensure a perfect fit.
All these numbers, what do they mean! Shown above are the dimensions for a bosche wall oven installation.
Joinery Conventions Explained – An Australian Perspective
When it comes to custom joinery in Australia, certain conventions and materials are commonly used. Understanding these will help you make informed decisions about your project.
A. Carcass: The Heart of Your Cabinets
The carcass is the foundational structure of your cabinets. In Australia, you'll typically find these materials used:
Particleboard/Chipboard: A cost-effective and widely used option for the internal structure of cabinets. Moisture-resistant (HMR) particleboard is essential for kitchens and bathrooms and is used as standard across all of our projects.
Medium Density Fibreboard (MDF): MDF is often chosen when a non standard colour is desired, outside of the standard carcass white option.
And for more information on melamine, MDF, and HMR, see: Melamine Blog Post
These custom-built wardrobe carcasses polytec in carcass white are in the final stages of preparation before being transported to site for installation. Our team meticulously checks each component to ensure a perfect fit.
B. Construction Methods: Frameless is the Norm
In Australia, frameless (also known as European-style) cabinet construction is the standard. Doors and drawers are attached directly to the cabinet sides, creating a clean, modern look and maximizing interior space. Face frame construction is rarely seen in modern Australian joinery.
C. Door and Drawer Styles: Overlay Reigns Supreme
Overlay doors and drawers are the most common style in Australia. They sit on top of the cabinet carcass, providing a simple and efficient design. Inset doors and drawers, which fit flush within the cabinet opening, are less frequently used.
Full overlay door (Left) vs a Inset door (Right) with a half overlay option in between. Full overlay doors are standard practice in Australian kitchen renovations and cabinets
D. Hardware: The Essential Details
Quality hardware is crucial for the smooth operation and longevity of your joinery. Common types include:
Hinges: Concealed hinges are popular for a clean look.
Drawer Runners: Soft-close runners are a desirable upgrade for smooth and quiet drawer operation.
Handles and Knobs: These are the finishing touches, offering a chance to personalise your joinery.
E. Finishes: The Look You Love
The finish you choose will significantly impact the look and feel of your joinery. Popular options in Australia include:
Two-Pack Polyurethane: A highly durable and popular choice for kitchens and bathrooms, offering a smooth, painted finish.
Vinyl Wrap: A cost-effective option for creating a seamless, coloured finish on doors and drawer fronts.
Laminate: A durable and versatile material, offering a wide range of colours and patterns.
For a deeper dive into door finishes, check out our blog post: Picking the Door of Your Dreams
Kosara Softclose Laundry Hamper used as standard in our laundry renovation projects.
Design Details: Adding Style and Function
Beyond the basics, several design details contribute to the overall look and feel of your joinery:
Shark Nose Profile: A popular edge profile for benchtops and some door styles, creating a sleek, handle-less look. The edge is angled, allowing you to grip the underside to open the door or drawer.
Shadow Line: A small gap intentionally left between doors/drawers and the frame or carcass. This creates a modern, floating effect and adds visual interest.
Toe Kick/Recess: The recessed space at the bottom of base cabinets, allowing you to stand closer to the work surface and improving ergonomics.
G. Innerware: Maximising Functionality
Innerware refers to the internal accessories that enhance the functionality and organisation of your cabinets. Popular options include:
Pull-out Bins: Integrated waste and recycling solutions, keeping your kitchen tidy and organised.
Pantry Pull-outs: Maximise storage space in your pantry and make it easier to access items.
Drawer Dividers: Help to organise cutlery, utensils, and other items within drawers.
By understanding these common joinery conventions and materials used in Australia, you'll be well-equipped to discuss your project with your joiner and achieve the perfect result.
2. Standard Dimensions for Kitchens: Creating a Functional and Beautiful Space in Australia
Creating a well-designed kitchen in Australia starts with understanding standard dimensions. While customisation is always an option, knowing the typical measurements for kitchen cabinets, benchtops, and other elements provides a solid foundation for your kitchen renovation project. Getting these dimensions right is crucial for both functionality and aesthetics.
This kitchen illustrates common practices in cabinet heights. On the left, full-height pantry units extend to the ceiling, maximizing vertical storage. The olive green wall cabinets on the right are mounted at a standard height above the countertop, allowing for comfortable access. The kitchen island in the foreground demonstrates a typical working height.
A. Base Cabinets: The Foundation of Your Kitchen - Robust and Ergonomic
Base cabinets are the workhorses of any Australian kitchen, providing essential storage and a stable platform for benchtops. In Australia, we prioritise ergonomic design to minimise strain and maximise efficiency.
Height: The standard 900mm height, including the kickboard, is a comfortable working height for most Australians, aligning with ergonomic guidelines. This height allows for a natural posture while preparing meals, reducing back strain.
Depth: A 600mm depth is a common dimension, accommodating standard Australian appliances like dishwashers and ovens. It also provides ample space for storing larger pots, pans, and kitchen gadgets.
Width: The wide range of widths, from 300mm to 1200mm, allows for flexible kitchen layouts. Corner cabinets, pull-out drawers, and specialised storage solutions are often incorporated into base cabinets to optimise space.
The Kickboard (or Toe Kick): As mentioned, the kickboard, typically 100-130mm high and 40mm deep, is a crucial feature in Australian kitchens. It allows for comfortable standing at the benchtop, preventing you from leaning forward and reducing back fatigue. This detail is often overlooked but significantly impacts long-term comfort.
B. Wall Cabinets: Maximising Vertical Space - Tailored to Australian Homes
Wall cabinets utilise vertical space, providing valuable storage for dishes, glassware, and pantry items. In Australia, where ceiling heights can vary significantly, customisation is key.
Height: Custom-made heights are common to maximise storage space and adapt to varying ceiling heights in Australian homes, from older high ceiling homes to modern low ceiling apartments.
Depth: The typical 300-350mm depth provides sufficient storage while avoiding encroachment on workspace. Rangehood integration often dictates depth adjustments, ensuring compliance with Australian Standards regarding ventilation.
Width: Matching base cabinet widths creates a cohesive and visually appealing kitchen design. Open shelving, glass-fronted cabinets, and integrated lighting are popular features in Australian wall cabinets.
Spacing: The 550-650mm spacing between the benchtop and wall cabinets is crucial for ergonomic access and compliance with Australian Standards, particularly regarding rangehood clearance. This ensures adequate ventilation and safety around cooktops.
C. Island Benches: The Heart of the Home - Social and Functional
Kitchen islands have become a staple in modern Australian homes, serving as a central hub for cooking, dining, and socialising.
Depth: Custom depths are common, with 900-1200mm being a popular range. The 300mm overhang for seating is a standard feature, providing a comfortable space for casual dining. Stone suppliers in Australia typically adhere to the 300mm overhang limit for safety and structural integrity.
Length: The length of the island is dictated by the kitchen's size and layout. Australian kitchens often feature large islands, creating a focal point for the home.
Walkway Clearance: Ensuring at least 900mm of walkway clearance around the island is crucial for comfortable movement, especially in busy Australian households. This prevents congestion and allows for multiple people to work in the kitchen simultaneously. Power outlets, sinks, and cooktops are often integrated into island benches for added functionality.
D. Benchtops/Countertops: The Working Surface - Durable and Stylish
Benchtops are the primary work surface in Australian kitchens, requiring durability and style.
Thickness: 20-40mm is a common thickness for stone benchtops, providing a robust and luxurious feel. Engineered stone, granite, and marble are popular choices in Australia, known for their durability and aesthetic appeal. Timber and laminate benchtops are also common, offering cost-effective and stylish options.
Materials: Australian homeowners often prioritise durable and low-maintenance materials. Engineered stone is popular for its resistance to scratches, stains, and heat. Solid surface and laminate are two other popular alternatives.
Edges: Edge profiles, such as bullnose, pencil round, and waterfall edges, are important design elements in Australian kitchens. These profiles can significantly impact the overall look and feel of the benchtop.
Splashbacks: Splashbacks, often made from tiles, glass, or stone, are essential in Australian kitchens for protecting walls from splashes and spills. They also provide an opportunity to add colour and texture to the space.
E. Splashbacks: Protecting Your Walls
Splashbacks protect your walls from water and grease. Standard dimensions and materials:
Height: Typically around 600mm, often dictated by the minimum distance required between the cooktop and the underside of the rangehood/wall cabinets (usually 550-650mm).
Materials: Popular choices include tiles, glass, stainless steel, and stone.
F. Appliances: Planning Ahead is Key
Appliance dimensions are crucial to consider before finalising your kitchen design. Make sure you have the exact specifications for your:
Oven: Wall ovens usually suit a 600mm wide carcass, but always check the specific model.
Dishwasher: Dishwashers typically require a 600mm wide opening.
Refrigerator: Measure your refrigerator carefully, as these can vary significantly in size.
Rangehood: Ensure the rangehood is the correct width for your cooktop, and that it complies with Australian Standards regarding distance from the cooktop and combustible surfaces.
G. Australian Standards
AS 4386.1: Domestic Kitchen Assemblies – Kitchen Units: This standard specifies the minimum requirements for constructing kitchen assemblies in homes, covering strength, durability, safety, ergonomics, service coordination (water, electricity, gas), component choices, and workmanship quality.
AS 4386.2: Domestic Kitchen Assemblies – Installation: Focuses on the minimum requirements for installing kitchen assemblies (pre-assembled or flat-pack) in homes. Crucially, it addresses minimum clearances between cooktops and combustible surfaces, oven ventilation, and service zone coordination. Understanding these clearances is vital for kitchen safety.
AS 4387.1 to .16: Domestic Kitchen Assemblies – Methods of Test: These standards detail the procedures for testing the strength of carcasses and underframes in kitchen assemblies.
AS 1351.1: Spaces in Dwellings – Kitchens: This standard specifies coordinating dimensions (height, width, and depth) for kitchen assemblies, including work surfaces and appliances. It covers preferred heights for sink units, work surfaces, and hob (cooktop) heights, ensuring ergonomic design.
HB 111 – 1998: The Domestic Kitchen Handbook: While not a formal Australian Standard, this handbook is an invaluable resource that complements AS 4386 and AS 4387. It covers materials, appliances, fittings, design briefs, budget estimates, and plan interpretation, making it essential for homeowners planning a new kitchen.
Other Relevant Standards:
Several other standards relate to Australian kitchen assemblies, including:
AS 1428: Design for access and mobility: Important for accessible kitchen design.
AS 2131: Adhesives for bonding decorative thermoset laminates (contact adhesives)
AS 2458: Hardboard
AS 2754: Adhesives for timber and timber products
AS 2924: Decorative thermosetting laminated sheet
AS 1859: Reconstituted wood-based panels
Why are these standards important?
Adhering to these standards ensures your kitchen is built to a safe and functional standard, reducing risks and increasing the longevity of your investment. By understanding these standards, you can communicate effectively with kitchen designers and builders, ensuring your vision aligns with best practices. Don't hesitate to ask professionals about their compliance with relevant Australian Standards. Your dream kitchen should be both beautiful and built to last.
3. Standard Dimensions for Wardrobes: Maximising Storage Space
Wardrobes are more than just storage; they're a crucial element in maintaining an organised and efficient lifestyle. In Australia, we place a high value on maximising storage space, especially in our often-compact homes.
Overall Height: Maximising Vertical Space
In Australia, built-in wardrobes extending to the ceiling are increasingly popular. This design maximises storage capacity and minimises dust collection, aligning with our desire for clean and organised living spaces.
Standard heights typically range from 2100mm to 2400mm, accommodating common ceiling heights in modern Australian homes. However, custom heights are readily available to suit older homes with higher ceilings or apartments with lower ceilings.
In many high end Australian homes, full height wardrobes are common, where the wardrobe doors meet the ceiling, for a seamless look.
Depth: Ensuring Garment Care
A standard depth of 600mm is essential for hanging clothes without creasing or crushing. This dimension allows for comfortable hanging of standard Australian clothing items, including suits, dresses, and coats.
Shallower depths (around 450mm) are often utilised for shelving units or smaller, reach-in wardrobes. These depths are suitable for folded clothing, shoes, and accessories.
Width: Versatility and Customisation
Wardrobe widths vary significantly, allowing for tailored storage solutions. Modular wardrobe systems offer standard widths, providing flexibility in configuration.
Custom-built wardrobes offer complete design freedom, allowing you to maximise every millimetre of available space. This is particularly beneficial in irregularly shaped rooms or awkward alcoves, common in older Australian homes.
Shelving: Adaptable Storage
Adjustable shelving is a must-have in Australian wardrobes, allowing for customisation to suit changing storage needs. This flexibility is crucial for accommodating various clothing items, from bulky jumpers to delicate accessories.
A common starting point of 300-400mm between shelves provides adequate space for folded clothing and shoes. However, adjustable shelves allow for flexibility.
Hanging Rods: Optimising Hanging Space
Different types of hanging rods cater to diverse garment lengths. Long hanging rods are ideal for dresses, coats, and longer garments, while shorter rods are perfect for shirts, trousers, and skirts.
Double hanging rods are a popular feature in Australian wardrobes, effectively doubling hanging capacity and maximising space efficiency. This is particularly beneficial in smaller wardrobes or for couples sharing a wardrobe.
Drawers: Organised and Accessible
Standard drawer sizes vary, allowing for tailored storage of various items. Consider the items you'll be storing in drawers when deciding on drawer sizes and placement.
Australian wardrobes often incorporate soft-close drawers for a luxurious feel and quiet operation. Drawer dividers and inserts are also popular, providing organised storage for smaller items like socks, underwear, and jewellery.
Drawers in the lower section of a wardrobe, are very common in Australian homes.
4. Standard Dimensions for Other Joinery: A Brief Overview
While kitchens and wardrobes are central to Australian homes, other joinery projects also benefit from standard dimensions, ensuring functionality and aesthetic appeal.
1. Bathroom Vanities: Comfort and Functionality
Height:
Standard vanity heights in Australia typically range from 850-900mm. This height is designed for comfortable use, minimising bending and strain, particularly important in busy morning routines.
Wall-hung vanities are becoming increasingly popular, offering flexibility in height adjustment and creating a sense of spaciousness in smaller Australian bathrooms.
Depth:
Depths typically range from 450-550mm, providing ample space for basins and storage. This depth also allows for comfortable standing while using the vanity.
In smaller Australian bathrooms, shallower depths (around 400mm) may be necessary to maximise space.
Width:
Vanity widths are highly variable, from single basin units to double vanities for larger bathrooms. It is important to consider the size of the bathroom when deciding on the width.
Australian bathrooms often incorporate drawers and open shelving for organised storage of toiletries and towels.
2. Bookcases: Display and Storage
Shelf Spacing:
Bookcase dimensions vary widely, depending on the design and intended use. Consider the size of your books and other items when planning shelf spacing.
Adjustable shelves are highly recommended, allowing for flexibility in storing various items.
In australian homes, bookcases are used for more than books, so spacing and strength of shelving is important.
Overall Height:
Floor to ceiling bookcases are becoming more common in australian homes, to maximise storage and create a feature wall.
Depth:
A depth of 300-350mm is typical for bookcases, accommodating most standard book sizes.
3. Entertainment Units: Media Organisation
Height:
Entertainment unit heights depend on the size of your television and other media equipment. Wall mounting televisions are very common in Australia, so the unit below is more for storage of devices.
Consider the viewing height from your seating when planning the height of your entertainment unit.
Depth:
Depths typically range from 400-500mm, providing space for media equipment and cables.
Width:
Entertainment unit widths vary significantly, depending on the size of your television and the amount of media equipment you have.
Australian homes often incorporate integrated cable management systems to keep cords organised and out of sight.
5. Customisation and Flexibility: ASMBL's Expertise
While standard dimensions offer a helpful starting point, ASMBL specialises in creating custom joinery solutions tailored to your individual needs and style. We understand that every home and every client is unique. Our experienced designers will work closely with you to understand your requirements and create custom pieces that perfectly fit your space and lifestyle. We can adapt standard dimensions, incorporate unique design elements, and maximise functionality to create truly bespoke joinery. Contact us today for a consultation and let us bring your vision to life.
Conclusion: Your Dream Joinery Awaits
Understanding joinery conventions and standard dimensions is crucial for any successful renovation or building project. It empowers you to communicate effectively with your joiner, avoid costly mistakes, and ultimately achieve the perfect result. At ASMBL, we combine our expertise in joinery conventions and standard dimensions with our passion for quality craftsmanship to create beautiful, functional, and long-lasting joinery for Australian homes. Contact us today for all your custom joinery needs, from kitchen renovations and custom wardrobes to bespoke furniture and more. Let us help you transform your house into the home you've always dreamed of.
