A guide to accessible kitchen design

Tips for planning an accessible kitchen  

Whether you’re starting with an empty space or adapting your existing kitchen, no doubt you’re wondering what to do first. Start with these golden rules for wheelchair accessible kitchen planning from the design professionals at Magnet. 

1. Give yourself plenty of space for manoeuvring 

If you’re a wheelchair user, then an open-plan layout is ideal for ensuring you have enough room to move around your kitchen. If open-plan isn’t possible, aim for pathways that are at least 1200mm wide. 

Before you start planning the layout of your kitchen, try to imagine how you’ll use the space. The kitchen triangle theory (also referred to as the ‘golden triangle’ or ‘working triangle’) is often used to create a sense of flow in the kitchen. 

The goal is to achieve a layout that makes performing everyday tasks easy by placing frequently used items in a triangle (fridge - sink - hob). Try to aim for this configuration with tweaks applied where required.

3. Opt for wall-mounted cupboards over base units

Wall-mounted units can be installed at varying heights to make them more accessible and allow you to reach items without stretching or straining. Opting for wall units ensures that everything is at eye level, which makes it easier to find the things you use frequently without having to bend down. 

Removing the base units also frees up space under the countertops so you can get closer to the work surface. Streamlining your units in this way creates a more open and accessible environment that feels spacious and is easier to clean. 

If you decide to install base units as well, consider opting for larger kickboards. The kickboard is the panel at the bottom of your kitchen cabinets that covers the gap between the floor and the cabinet. A kickboard of at least 150 mm to 223 mm (approximately 6 to 9 inches) provides enough space for the footplates of a wheelchair, allowing you to get closer to the countertop.