Your New IKEA Kitchen
This guide will help you through all the steps you need to take along the way, including everything from finding your style and measuring your IKEA kitchen to planning, ordering, and installing it.
Introduction
At IKEA, you'll find all the products you need to realize a complete dream kitchen. Whether your kitchen is large or small, IKEA offers a wide range of well-designed and coordinated kitchen products to support every need, style, and personality. IKEA kitchens are designed to be simple enough for you to put together yourself.
Recognizing that a kitchen project involves many choices and decisions, IKEA provides highly skilled kitchen experts at stores and customer services to make the journey convenient and stress-free. For assistance with any steps, a complete service package is available (see page 20 or visit IKEA.ca/kitchenservices).
Find Your Style
Take time to dream and let your ideas take shape. Consider your needs and what your ideal kitchen looks like to find a perfect match at IKEA.
Consider if you prefer a classic style with visible drawers and details, a modern approach with streamlined designs and hidden drawers, or a blend of both.
Discover all the styles, functions, and ideas IKEA provides.
The IKEA Store
Visit your local IKEA store to explore various built-up kitchens in different sizes and styles. Open doors and drawers, check appliance functions, and chat with kitchen experts for ideas.
The IKEA Website
Find abundant stylish and functional ideas on the IKEA website. The kitchen gallery showcases kitchens in different styles and sizes, with each kitchen broken down into its components for easy mixing and matching. Visit IKEA.ca/Kitchens for more.
Measure
Accurate measurements are crucial as they form the basis for your new kitchen plan. Allow ample time for precise measurement, ensuring all measurements are in inches for correct fitting.
A: Measuring Your Room
Step 1: Measure from the floor to the ceiling. Then, measure the distance between walls and from corners to doors.
Step 2: Measure each window, including the frame, and its distances from the floor, ceiling, and room corners. Repeat for doors.
Step 3: Mark anything protruding into the room, such as radiators, ventilation shafts, and pipes. Note the position of existing power outlets and light switches, and mark where you want new ones. Also, note the position of drains and water supply, marking new positions if relocating.
Read more about our Measuring service (page 20) and IKEA Home planner (page 22).
B: Measuring Your Countertop
Accurate countertop measurements are important, especially for custom-made ones.
Step 1: Measure your countertop length along the wall from the corner where it will attach. Always start from the same point.
Step 2: For depth, measure from the wall outwards. Add 0.5 inches for an overhang.
Step 3: For freestanding countertops (e.g., kitchen islands), measure from one end and add 1.5 inches for an overhang.
C: My Kitchen Measurements
Use squared paper where 1 square equals 12 inches to draw your kitchen layout. Record ceiling height and distances between walls (A, B, C). Mark the locations of vents, air ducts, pipes, electrical outlets, switches, water, and gas connections.
Plan Your Kitchen
Now it's time to bring your dreams and ideas to life. Consider all aspects carefully to ensure you achieve your desired kitchen. The following pages offer recommendations and tips.
Think about how you use your kitchen daily and what feels comfortable. Review your existing kitchen and list what you like and what you want to change.
A: Work Flow
A good natural flow between the fridge/freezer, cooking zone, and washing up zone simplifies everyday kitchen life. Keep the three work zones in mind: Preparing/cooking, Washing up, and Food storage. The positioning of these zones and the distance between them is called a working triangle. A good working triangle allows for quick and easy movement between tasks and is beneficial when multiple people are using the kitchen simultaneously.
B: Planning Layouts
Single-line kitchens are ideal for limited space. While not a strict triangle, the three points are connected.
Galley kitchens are excellent for multiple cooks, offering ample space for food preparation and storage.
L-shaped kitchens maximize corner spaces and are suitable for adding a small dining table or kitchen island.
Adding an island to a large kitchen provides extra storage, workspace, and serves as a social hub. Ensure at least 48 inches of space between the island and other cabinets for free movement.
U-shaped kitchens are great for large rooms, offering maximum space and storage options.
Read more about our Planning services (page 21) and IKEA Home planner (page 22).
C: Recommendations (Dos and Don'ts)
01: Place food preparation surfaces between the cooktop and sink for optimal workflow.
02: Ensure adequate distance between opposite cabinet rows to allow doors on both sides to open simultaneously.
03: Mount wall cabinets high enough to avoid obstructing the view over the countertop.
04: Maintain at least 18 inches of space around cooking surfaces for safety measures.
05: Mount the extractor hood/fan at the recommended height above the cooktop, following assembly instructions.
06: Leave space for cover panels if wall cabinets will be placed next to the extractor hood/fan.
07: Use a 2-inch filler piece between base/wall cabinets and the wall to ensure full opening of doors and drawers.
08: Add extra support if the countertop protrudes more than 10 inches over the cabinet.
09: Position the sink and cooktop in the same line to avoid carrying hot objects across the floor.
D: Tips
01: Install ovens at an elevated height to avoid bending down.
02: Locate the dishwasher close to the sink and draining board for easier loading/unloading and to prevent floor spills.
03: Keep utensils, pots, and pans near the cooktop and sink for easy access during preparation and cooking. Store cutlery in a drawer near the dining table.
04: Drawers provide excellent overview and easy access. Use drawer mats to prevent items from moving and reduce noise.
05: Place waste sorting bins in a drawer under or near the sink for convenient access.
06: Electrical push openers are useful for opening drawers with your knee or elbow when your hands are full, and help avoid leaving stains on fronts and handles.
07: Optimize space behind cabinet fronts with inner drawers for maximum storage capacity.
08: Use drawer lighting to easily find items, even in low light conditions.
09: Display glassware on tempered glass shelves behind glass doors. Add cabinet lighting to create a cozy atmosphere and make the room appear larger.
10: Utilize wall rails and accessories to maximize wall space, minimize countertop clutter, and keep frequently used items accessible.
11: If space allows, add a cart or workbench for additional storage and workspace.
E: Keep in Mind
01: A sink by the window is pleasant for washing up. Ensure faucets do not block inward-opening windows.
02: Placing a sink next to a wall or at the end of a cabinet row can disrupt workflow by limiting workspace.
03: An oven placed next to a wall can limit workspace and expose the wall to heat and cooking stains.
04: Positioning appliances like ovens, dishwashers, or extractor hoods in corners might obstruct the full opening of cabinets and drawers.
F: Small Space Solutions
When space is limited, compromises may be necessary.
01: Use a small sink that fits into a 24-inch cabinet. Ensure at least 4 inches of space between the sink and countertop edges for structural stability.
02: Aim for at least 18 inches of countertop space between the cooktop and sink for preparation.
03: Maintain at least 8 inches of space between the cooktop and the wall for safe cooking.
04: In narrow spaces, consider using 14-inch deep cabinets instead of the standard 24-inch depth.
05: Maximize storage opportunities by utilizing wall space, freeing up countertop areas.
Order, Get It Home and Install
Once satisfied with your kitchen plan, it's time to order. It is recommended to visit your local IKEA store and consult with kitchen experts before ordering. They can help with any uncertainties and review your plan for fit.
You have three options for placing an order:
- In the kitchen department at your local IKEA store.
- By phone: Call Customer Services at 1 866 866 IKEA (4532).
- On our website: www.IKEA.ca/kitchencontact.
IKEA Kitchens are designed to be installed by you
Start by obtaining the kitchen installation guide from your local IKEA store or online. It provides step-by-step instructions. Always follow the assembly instructions included with product packaging.
If you need help with installation, IKEA offers Kitchen Installation Services. Read more on page 21.
Planning Your Kitchen Project
Here are helpful tips for coordinating delivery, installation, and countertops. Setting an installation date first can help coordinate subsequent steps.
Delivery
Arrange delivery 5-7 days before your installation start date. Clear a space in an adjacent room for assembling and arranging boxes in installation sequence. Upon delivery, check products against your order. Contact 1-866-866-IKEA (4532) or visit IKEA for missing or damaged items.
Preparing
Begin preparation at least 1 week before installation. This includes cleaning out cabinets, creating a temporary kitchen space, removing the old kitchen, patching/painting walls, and preparing flooring and electrical/plumbing.
Installation
The Installation Guide provides step-by-step assembly and installation instructions. For those needing assistance, the IKEA Kitchen Service team can complete the installation. Obtain a quote from a kitchen co-worker or visit IKEA.ca/kitchenservices.
Custom Countertops
After base cabinets are installed, leveled, and appliances are in place, contact your countertop fabricator for templating. Have your sink, faucet, and cooktop available for templating. The fabricator will then install the new countertops at an agreed time. A temporary countertop solution (e.g., plywood) can be used between templating and installation.
Finishing Touches
Once the countertop is installed, complete backsplash, touch up paint, finalize plumbing and electrical connections. Perform a thorough cleaning to enjoy your new kitchen.
Checklist
Before visiting IKEA kitchen experts, consider the following to make planning efficient:
Must Haves:
- My budget
- Timeframe for project completion
- Door style
- My top must haves:
Appliances:
Range: Height: __", Width: __", Depth: __" (Slide-in / Free standing)
Built-in oven: Height: __", Width: __", Depth: __"
Cooktop: Height: __", Width: __", Depth: __"
Extractor hood: Height: __", Width: __", Depth: __"
Fridge/freezer: Height: __", Width: __", Depth: __"
Microwave: Height: __", Width: __", Depth: __"
Dishwasher: (Standard / Integrated)
Work Area Requirements:
- Laundry
- Bar
- Dining/eating area
- Island
- Office/desk area
- Other
Services:
- Delivery
- Installation
Contracting Needs:
- Electrical
- Plumbing
- Flooring
- Backsplash
Considerations:
- Legs
- Cabinet frame colour (e.g., white)
- Finishing panels
- Panels as filler
- Shelf hole cover caps
- Toekick/plinth
- Suspension rail
- Knobs/Handles
- FIXA drill template
- Crown moulding
- Light valance
Lighting:
MITTLED, SKYDRAG (Plug-in systems with built-in LED light source. Requires LED transformer, power cord, and remote control, sold separately. ANSLUTA/TRÅDFRI transformer: Choose based on units connected; up to 3 units (10W)/9 units (30W), total wattage must not exceed limit.)
Countertop:
Pre-cut: Laminate, Wood. Custom made: Quartz, Laminate.
Sink:
Pre-cut / Custom made.
Interior Solutions:
- MAXIMERA drawer (25-year warranty, fully extendable, soft closing, available in low, medium, and high sizes)
- Drawer dividers
- Drawer mats
- Glass sides for medium and high drawers
- Waste sorting/recycling bins
- Cutlery solutions
- Open storage (e.g., wine racks)
Island:
- Island support kit
- Island assembly kit
Definitions:
Legs: For side-by-side cabinets, legs can be shared. Corner base cabinets require specific numbers of legs (e.g., 38x38" needs 5 legs, 47" needs 6 legs).
Finishes: Finishing panels cover exposed cabinet sides or create gables (e.g., for refrigerators or dishwashers). Panels as filler hide gaps (minimum 1 inch required against a wall) and are cut from cover panels.
Toekick/plinth: Calculate needed lengths by measuring base cabinet widths and exposed sides, then dividing by the toekick length (87 inches).
Suspension rail: Calculate needed rails by measuring all cabinet widths (base and high cabinets) and dividing by the suspension rail length (84 inches).
FIXA drill template: A tool for accurately marking knob and handle placement.
Crown moulding/Light valance: Calculate needed strips by measuring wall cabinet widths and exposed sides, then dividing by the strip length (87 inches).
Services
You can do it yourself, but you don't have to. IKEA's service offer provides flexibility in choosing products and deciding how much you want to do yourself versus what services you want IKEA to provide.
Delivery
Whether shopping in-store or online, IKEA will handle heavy lifting and deliver purchases to your home or business. Options include buying online for home delivery within days, or Click and Collect for pre-ordered items ready for pickup.
Buy it in the Store
Visit an IKEA store to experience products firsthand, consult with kitchen specialists, and get questions answered. Most items are flat-packed for immediate transport or delivery.
Measuring
For precise room drawings, IKEA Kitchen Specialists can measure your room, checking window/door placement, power sockets, and wall conditions.
Kitchen Consultation & Planning Service
Get help with ideas and planning your new kitchen. Experts guide you through IKEA offerings, providing functional solutions for cabinet placement, appliances, storage, lighting, and sinks. Services include 30-minute in-store/online consultations, in-store assisted self-planning, up to 2-hour in-store one-on-one planning, remote online planning, and up to 3-hour in-home planning.
Visit IKEA.ca/kitchenservices for pricing and booking.
IKEA Kitchen Installation
IKEA customers can expect skilled and careful project completion. The IKEA kitchen service team understands IKEA cabinet system installation methods, ensuring longevity. Installation services are available to help you achieve your dream kitchen. Obtain a free installation quote from a co-worker or visit IKEA.ca/kitchenservices.
Warranty
A 5-year installation warranty is provided by the IKEA kitchen service team for IKEA SEKTION kitchen products. Non-IKEA products, ENHET, and KNOXHULT kitchens have a one-year warranty. The warranty covers defects in workmanship and material, excluding issues from accidents, customer alterations, misuse, abuse, or neglect.
More Information and Guidance
IKEA Home Planner
Design your SEKTION kitchen in a 3D environment, getting detailed pricing. Print or save your designs and product lists. Discuss your design with IKEA kitchen experts in-store for advice.
Learn more at IKEA.ca/kitchenplanner.
IKEA.ca/Kitchens
Find inspiration and ideas on the IKEA website to refresh your kitchen or create a new one. Explore products to personalize your dream kitchen.
ENHET Kitchen configurator
Use the ENHET kitchen configurator for a fast and smooth purchase. Browse ready-made kitchen solutions online, customize features like fronts, countertops, sinks, faucets, knobs/handles, and appliances with one click.
ENHET Kitchen System
This buying guide provides essential information for efficiently planning your new ENHET kitchen.
IKEA Kitchens and Appliances
These guides cover all products and steps for planning, measuring, ordering, delivering, and installing IKEA kitchens and appliances.
Installation Guides
Two installation guides offer step-by-step instructions for installing SEKTION or ENHET kitchens independently.
View and download all IKEA kitchen guides on IKEA.ca.
Need Help?
Contact IKEA through various channels:
- Online: Read FAQs at IKEA.ca/FAQ.
- In Person: Speak with staff in-store.
- By phone: Call 1-866-866-IKEA (4532).
Installation Services: Save time and effort. Visit IKEA.ca/kitchenservices for full details.
Remember, it's okay to change your mind. For more information, see the Return policy on IKEA.ca/returnpolicy.
© Inter IKEA Systems B.V. 2020