How To Measure Your Kitchen for a Remodel: A Step-by-Step Guide

Download our free kitchen measurement checklist to get started.

Taking the time to gather initial measurements allows our kitchen designers to start creating a design mock-up tailored to your space and needs.

For serious buyers, professional measuring services are always available to ensure precision and accuracy. The good news? Measuring your kitchen is easier than you might think!

Tools You’ll Need:  

• Tape measure

• Pencil & eraser

• Grid paper (included in our downloadable PDF)

• Smartphone or camera

• Straight edge or ruler

Follow this simple step-by-step guide:

STEP 1: Sketch Floor Plan & Take Pictures  

• Using grid paper, sketch the layout of your kitchen, including all walls, doorways, and windows.

• Measure the full width of each wall, corner to corner, in inches (e.g., a 4-foot wall = 48 inches).

• Take pictures of each wall to share with your designer.

Why it matters: Your sketch and photos will give the designer an accurate starting point for your new layout.

STEP 2: Measure & Mark Windows, Doorways & Obstructions  

• Measure the height and width of each door and window. Include the frame/molding in your measurement.

• Mark the location of any obstructions such as vents, radiators, and hood vents.

Tip: Label each window and door on your sketch for clarity (e.g., Window 1, Door 2).

STEP 3: Mark Appliances  

If keeping your current appliances:

• Measure the height, width, and depth of each appliance.

• Mark their center points (this is typically where the gas line or plumbing line begins).

If purchasing new appliances:

• Provide your designer with the manufacturer and model information to ensure everything fits perfectly.

Why it matters: Appliances determine how cabinets and countertops will align.

STEP 4: Mark Plumbing Lines  

• Measure the location of plumbing lines from the nearest wall.

• Indicate whether the sink drain goes into the floor or the wall.

• For gas ranges, note the location of the gas supply line, or measure from the centerline of the range if the supply line is not visible.

Pro Tip: Accurate plumbing measurements ensure seamless cabinet and sink installations.

STEP 5: Mark Electrical Outlets & Switches  

• Mark the location of electrical outlets and light switches from the center of the outlet or switch to the nearest wall.

Why it matters: Designers will use this information to plan cabinets and ensure outlets are accessible.

STEP 6: Measure Ceiling Height & Soffits    

• Measure the ceiling height in 2-4 locations throughout the room.

• If you have soffits (the boxed area above cabinets), measure their height and depth.

STEP 7: Double Check Your Measurements    

• Confirm that all measurements add up to the total width of each wall.

• Review your sketch to ensure windows, doors, and other elements are accurately placed.

Tip: If keeping your existing flooring, measure the footprint of your lower cabinets to ensure the new layout covers the same areas.

Frequently Asked Questions  

1. How do I measure my kitchen if the walls aren’t square?

Measure along the base of the wall and at countertop height. Note any irregularities and share them with your designer.

2. What if I plan to buy new appliances?

Provide the manufacturer and model details to your designer to ensure the cabinets and layout accommodate them.

3. Do I need to measure my entire kitchen, or just specific areas?

You should measure the entire kitchen, including all walls, windows, doors, appliances, and fixtures. Comprehensive measurements ensure the designer has everything needed to plan your layout accurately.

4. Can a kitchen designer help me if my measurements aren’t perfect?

Yes! Your initial measurements help us create a starting design. Before finalizing your kitchen layout, we offer professional measuring services to confirm dimensions and ensure accuracy.

Now Let's Design Your Dream Kitchen  

Now that you have your measurements, it’s time for the fun part: planning your new kitchen! Bring your sketch and photos to your consultation at Von Tobel, and our designers will guide you through the process of creating a kitchen you’ll love.

Visit one of our kitchen showrooms:  Valparaiso • Michigan City • Lafayette

Or, request a free no-obligation design consultation here.