When planning a kitchen or storage solution, precise dimensions are the difference between a seamless installation and a costly return. The depth of an IKEA Sektionsbase cabinet is a specific detail that dictates how much recessed space you need in your wall and how close other appliances or fixtures can be. Understanding this measurement ensures your cabinetry sits flush, functions comfortably, and aligns perfectly with your overall design.
Standard Depth Specifications
The standard depth for an IKEA Sektionsbase cabinet is 510 mm, which is just over 20 inches. This dimension is foundational to the IKEA kitchen system, allowing the classic grid of 2x2 or 3x3 modules to function uniformly. This specific depth provides ample room for mounting a full-size dishwasher or integrating the cabinet into a tightly planned run of units without creating a gap behind the door.
Shallow Variations for Specific Layouts
While 510 mm is the norm, the Sektionsbase is available in reduced depths to accommodate awkward corners or to create shallow run cabinets. A common option is the 310 mm depth, which is popular for filling narrow spaces or creating a dedicated cabinet for items that should not be pushed to the back. There is also a 410 mm depth that serves as a middle ground, offering slightly more room than the ultra-shallow option while still saving valuable floor space compared to the standard unit.
| Variation | Depth (mm) | Common Use Case |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Sektionsbase | 510 mm | Main run cabinets, full appliance integration |
| Shallow Sektionsbase | 410 mm | Tight runs, transitional spaces |
| Extra Shallow Sektionsbase | 310 mm | Corners, small storage nooks |
Clearance for Installation and Accessibility
The specified depth is a factory measurement of the cabinet box itself. To achieve a professional finish, you must account for the additional 4 to 6 mm required for the face frame and the door overlay. This brings the total space needed to approximately 515–520 mm. Furthermore, ensure there is a slight gap—often recommended at 3–5 mm—behind the cabinet to allow for leveling during installation and prevent the unit from binding against the wall or skirting board.
Planning Around Appliances
Since the standard depth is 510 mm, your planning for integrated appliances should start with this measurement. If you are installing a dishwasher, verify that its depth does not exceed the cabinet’s cavity; most built-in dishwashers are designed to fit this standard. Conversely, if you are placing a refrigerator next to a Sektionsbase, the fridge will typically protrude further, creating a visual break that you can address with a filler panel or by adjusting the layout.
Impact on Door Swing and Functionality
Dimensional accuracy affects more than just the back wall; it dictates how doors interact with one another. Doors on a 510 mm cabinet will swing open with a standard arc, but if you place two shallow cabinets adjacent to each other, the hinge placement changes to prevent the doors from knocking into one another. Careful planning of depth ensures that drawer fronts and doors clear each other, maintaining smooth access to every section of your storage.
Verifying Your Specific Configuration
Before you finalize your build, always cross-reference the depth with the current product catalog. While 510 mm is the benchmark, manufacturers occasionally refine dimensions for sustainability or structural improvements. Double-checking the measurements for your specific chosen variant guarantees that your detailed plans—electrical, plumbing, and joinery—remain accurate, saving time and potential rework on the installation day.
