Building or replacing kitchen units yourself? Most UK kitchens follow a common set of standard sizes. This guide covers typical carcass dimensions and includes a worked cutting list for a 600mm base unit you can adapt for your own project.
Typical UK kitchen cabinet sizes
| Unit | Carcass height | Carcass depth | Common widths |
|---|---|---|---|
| Base units | 720mm | 560–570mm | 150, 300, 400, 450, 500, 600, 800, 1000mm |
| Wall units | 720mm or 900mm | 300–330mm | 300, 400, 500, 600, 800, 1000mm |
| Tall units | Around 1970–2150mm | 560–570mm | 300, 400, 500, 600mm |
With 150mm legs and a 38–40mm worktop on top of a 720mm base carcass, the finished worktop height is around 910mm. Sizes vary between manufacturers, so if you are matching existing units, always measure what you have.
Worked example: 600mm base unit cutting list
Based on a 720mm high, 600mm wide, 560mm deep carcass in 18mm MFC, with the base fitted between the sides:
| Part | Qty | Size (mm) | Edging |
|---|---|---|---|
| Side panel | 2 | 720 x 560 | L1 (front edge) 1mm |
| Base | 1 | 564 x 560 | L1 (front edge) 1mm |
| Top rail (front and back) | 2 | 564 x 100 | L1 on the front rail, 1mm |
| Shelf | 1 | 562 x 500 | L1 (front edge) 1mm |
| Back panel (8mm) | 1 | 600 x 720 if fixed to the back of the carcass – or sized to suit your groove | None |
How the sums work: the internal width is the unit width minus two side thicknesses (600 – 18 – 18 = 564mm). Shelves are made 2mm narrower than that (562mm) so they drop in easily, and shallower than the carcass so they clear the door and hinges. A door for this unit is typically 715 x 597mm with 2mm edging all round – but always check the gaps your hinges and drawer runners need.
Tips before you order
- Check your hinge, drawer runner and leg manufacturer’s instructions – construction methods vary.
- Choose moisture-resistant board for sink units.
- Use 2mm edging on doors and drawer fronts for durability – see our edgebanding guide.
- Need hinge holes or shelf pin holes? Our CNC service can drill them for you.
Send us your kitchen cutting list
We will check your list before cutting. Read our guide on how to write a cutting list, use the online cutting list, or call 07791 290848, WhatsApp 07479 219421 or email cutandedgexpress@gmail.com. You can also add furniture fittings to your order.