Kitchen Planning Guide, Guideline 29, Proper Oven Placement

Guideline 29

There should be at least 15" of landing space which is at least 16" deep next to or above the oven if the appliance door opens into a primary traffic pattern. At least 15" x 16" of landing space which is no more than 48" across from the oven is acceptable if the appliance does not open into a traffic area. (Fig. 1) (Measure the 48" distance from the center front of the oven to the countertop opposite it.) For further instruction on these requirements see Guideline 31.

Guideline 29 Examples

Unacceptable Unless Counterspace Is Adjacent To Appliance		Acceptable To Have Landing Space Across From Appliances

In the top example (Fig. 2) the oven opens directly into a major traffic pattern leading from the utility area to the family room. This is a dangerous installation which should be avoided unless there is landing space on either side of the oven. In the bottom example (Fig. 3) the oven is located within the cook's primary work space, away from the family traffic pattern. Therefore, a landing area can be directly opposite it.

Guidelines used by permission from the National Kitchen & Bath Association