Full Size Cabinet Behind Kitchen Sink?

Question

Hello All.  I am planning a condo kitchen remodel and wanted some advice on whether to install a full size cabinet behind the sink.

Here are some of my thoughts on the advantages/disadvantages of the full size cabinet:

Advantages:
1) Increased storage for a small kitchen (7'x10.5')
2) Uniform cabinet length (more aesthetically appealing)
3) Uniform cabinet length allows for the under-cabinet lighting

Disadvantages:
1) When using sink, your face is right up against cabinet

The condo will be used as a rental sometime next year so I am more so worried about what tenants would appreciate more.  I personally think the under cabinet lighting would give the kitchen an awesome look, but I prefer the shorter cabinet above the sink.

The main wall with kitchen cabinets has the following appliances in this order from left to right: full-length cabinet, oven (microwave above), dishwasher, sink, then corner cabinet.  Hope that helps put things in perspective.

J Scott · Answer

Got it...thanks for the clarification, Steve!

I'm not a fan of cabinets over the kitchen sink, and definitely not a 42" cabinet.  Personally, I would forgo the cabinet all together, and maybe put a valence above the sink with a down-facing spotlight or florescent light.  You're going to want light over the sink, and a cabinet is only going to make the space darker.

That said, if you *have* to have a cabinet above the sink, definitely don't go 42"...or even 30"...stick with 24" or less...

Steve Babiak · Answer

J  Scott - I think he meant "over" where he used the word "behind".

David Niles · Answer

No no no, definitely not, you would kick yourself everytime someone goes to rent it or you go to sell as it would stick out like a sore thumb.  If space is that tight, as J Scott said, use an over the fridge / stove style, you could still put lighting on it to shine on sink.

Doug S. · Answer

Thanks - good advice.  I didn't consider not having a cabinet there, but it would probably look just as good with shelves and save a little at the same time.

Doug S. · Answer

The cabinet above the sink can either be raised to allow more head space, or be a full-length cabinet.  I am getting 42" cabinets for my kitchen, so I was looking for some advice on whether to have a 42" cabinet above/behind the sink or a smaller cabinet length.

J Scott · Answer

Doug -

Maybe I'm missing something obvious (it wouldn't be the first time :), but I'm not sure I understand what you mean...

Can you clarify?

Full Size Cabinet Behind Kitchen Sink?

Most Popular Reply