5 Ways to Determine the Best Countertop Height for Your Kitchen Needs

Marketing Hamid & Sons
May 23
3 min read

Key Takeaways:

What is the Best Kitchen Countertop Height?
Standard countertop height (90 cm) for general use; lower countertops (81-86cm) for shorter individuals; raised countertops (96-107 cm) for taller users; and adjusting different heights for different kitchen areas.

How to Choose the Right Kitchen Countertop Height?
Determining the best kitchen countertop height involves evaluating your daily habits, family needs, and kitchen design preferences.

Finding the perfect kitchen countertop height is like choosing the right pair of shoes—it needs to feel just right! A well-fitted countertop ensures comfort, enhances efficiency, and makes daily kitchen tasks a breeze. While standard countertops typically measure 85-90 cm, this height may not be ideal for everyone. By tailoring your optimal countertop height based on your personal needs and lifestyle habits, you can optimise your kitchen’s functionality and comfort. This ensures that your HDB kitchen renovation project improves your daily cooking routine.

What is the Best Kitchen Countertop Height?

1. Standard Countertop Height for General Use

For most homes in Singapore, the standard kitchen countertop height of 90 cm (about 36 inches) is ideal. This height accommodates common kitchen tasks such as meal preparation, dishwashing, and cooking. At the same time, it also aligns well with standard kitchen appliances. Many interior design companies in Singapore recommend this height for HDB and condominium kitchens due to its versatility.

2. Lower Countertops for Shorter Individuals

Do you constantly strain to reach your countertop? If so, it may be too high for your comfort. This can make everyday tasks like chopping vegetables, washing dishes, or using kitchen appliances more difficult. Lowering the countertop to 32-34 inches (81-86 cm) helps create a more ergonomic and accessible workspace, promoting a natural and relaxed posture. This simple adjustment reduces unnecessary reaching and bending, easing muscle strain for a smoother food preparation process.

3. Raised Countertops for Taller Users

For those over 180 cm tall, a standard kitchen countertop height is likely to cause unnecessary bending, leading to discomfort over time. To create a more ergonomic kitchen design, taller users should consider raising the countertops to 38-42 inches (96-107 cm). This adjustment allows them to maintain a comfortable posture while working, improving overall efficiency in the kitchen.

4. Different Heights for Different Kitchen Areas

A well-designed kitchen caters to different tasks efficiently. Adjustable kitchen surfaces can enhance workflow by incorporating varying heights for specific activities:

Lower Countertops
Measuring around 30 inches/76 cm, this height works best for tasks that require downward pressure. For instance, kneading dough during the baking process.
Higher Countertops
The 42-inch (107 cm) kitchen countertop height is suitable for bar seating or quick meals. Installing these higher countertops adds a modern touch to your kitchen.

5. Wheelchair Accessibility Considerations

For homes requiring accessible countertop solutions, the kitchen countertops should be designed with inclusivity in mind. A suitable height of 28-34 inches (71-86 cm) allows for adequate knee clearance, making it easier for individuals in wheelchairs to use the kitchen comfortably. For guidance and financial assistance on accessibility improvements and home retrofitting, reach out to non-profit organisations like the Agency for Integrated Care (AIC) in Singapore.

How to Choose the Right Kitchen Countertop Height?

Determining the best kitchen countertop height involves evaluating your daily habits, family needs, and kitchen design preferences. If you're unsure which height works best for you, consult Hamid and Sons for expert advice.

As a leading Malay interior design firm in Singapore, we have completed over 50,000 residential and commercial projects. Whether you're planning an HDB renovation or upgrading your kitchen space, we are always ready to help.