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Remodeling Design Dilemma Kitchens

Distance from Fridge to Counter? Advice please!

3 years ago

Hello! We want more counter space, so we are adding a small peninsula to our existing counter. Right now, the space between the counter and fridge is huge. When we extend the counter, much space should we leave between the fridge and the end of the counter (no cabinets opening towards the fridge)? That trash can won't be there--I am going to do a double-bin roll out trash can in the new cabinet. I am taking this picture standing in the dining room.

Thank you!

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Comments (8)

itsourcasa
3 years ago
We have 54" and it's great.
Sammie J
3 years ago
Open your refrigerator doors and then add 2' for passing by. That is the distance you will need.
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PRO
User
3 years ago
A full depth fridge can be 36” deep. Now open the doors. That’s 54” from the wall just to do that, with zero room for passing by.

Scoot the fridge down so it isn’t immediately opposite the peninsula. Buy a counter depth. And plan on 48”-54” of aisle space.
Muriel Thompson
3 years ago
last modified: 3 years ago
Are you redoing all of your cabinets? Adding a cabinet to house a trash can, where you already have a trash can, doesn't seem to gain you much. The added height of full height countertop there, rather than just the trash can, will make it feel more cramped. It appears it's a high traffic area. I think you should leave it alone.
kayozzy
3 years ago
When you look at conversations about island spacing, it is preferable to have 48" from countertop or appliances. 42" works, some people do 36", but that would be really tight. You could put up some boxes to see how you feel about the different distances.
anj_p
3 years ago
I agree with Muriel. The space is high traffic, which means a peninsula will just make it look awkward and result in a pinch point. I would also leave it alone. There may be other ways to get more counterspace in your kitchen than adding a sliver of counter here.
cat_ky
3 years ago
I would definitely not put a peninsula there. You just do not have the room to do that. You need room, for frig door to open, and someone to pass behind you when you have it open. Its a nice sized opening, but, its too narrow for a peninsula.
Fori
3 years ago
I'd try to figure it out by moving the trash can around and seeing at what point it becomes a problem.

But...you want more counter space. Can you use a movable island or workcart instead?

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