The general rule for kitchen construction is that the sink, main refrigerator, and stove should be in close proximity to each other.
But remodeling or building a kitchen is full of many big decisions! Is it recommended to place a stove at the end of a cabinet run?
I have a stove at the end of my cabinet run, and I recommend it. It’s important to follow proper installation recommendations to avoid fire hazards. Especially in smaller spaces, the stove may be easier to access at the end of the counter. Doing this may also increase the amount of continuous counter space in your kitchen.
Installation Recommendations
Whether you place your stove at the end of the cabinet run or not, here are some installation rules to follow.
Spacing Near a Wall
The third picture above is an example of how a stove may be placed at the end of a cabinet run against a wall. The picture was taken before they installed wall protection or backsplash.
Unless you use wall protection, there should be at least thirty-six inches between any range and sidewall. There should be at least two inches of space between it and the back wall. A freestanding range requires no space between it and the back wall.
Wall Protection
Wood frame walls covered with drywall are considered combustible. Backsplash is needed to serve as wall protection that protects from cooking splatter, oils, and excessive heat that would be damaging to drywall.
The backsplash should be made of durable, nonabsorbent, and easy-to-clean material that will not discolor easily. Ceramic, porcelain, glass, or metal tiles are a perfect choice for heat resistance and style!
Spacing Near a Window
Most building codes require a range to be a minimum of twelve inches away from a window due to the risk of fanning the flame or blowing out the flame on a gas burner. If this happened, it could allow gas to accumulate – potentially unnoticed.
Keep in mind these are merely recommendations. There are photos online of stoves directly in front of curtainless windows. When it comes to the proper placement of kitchen appliances, follow all the recommended safety tips.
Stove at the End of Cabinet Run
Benefits
You should not have any more than nine feet and no less than four feet of space between each kitchen appliance to allow easy maneuvering during meal preparation.
It may work out better for you to place your stove at the end of the cabinet run. By doing this, you could increase the amount of continuous counter space in your kitchen.
It may be better to place your stove farther away from the window, especially if the window adorns curtains. Many people choose to have their sink under the window while placing the fridge and stove at opposite ends of the counter.
Having the two largest appliances at each end of the counter run creates a complete and tidy look.
Drawbacks
Placing your stove at the end of the counters could limit how much room you have to move while cooking, especially if it’s against a wall.
If an end wall is present, make sure it has the proper protection to avoid damage, discoloration, and fire hazards.
Without an end wall beside the stove, people (more so, children) may be at risk of accidentally touching or bumping into hot burners as they walk by.
Having counter space on both sides of your stove may be beneficial for meal preparation and make it less likely for anyone to accidentally touch the stove top.
In Conclusion
Having your stove placed at the end of the cabinet run can be beneficial, especially if your kitchen has limited space.
As long as there is wall protection on any wall closer than thirty-six inches from the stovetop, I don’t see why there shouldn’t be any increased risk of fire by having your stove there.
Any windows within thirty-six inches from the stove should not have curtains on them.
Having all (or most) of the counter space together instead of on either side of the stove can make your kitchen more roomy and accessible.
Besides a few installation rules that need to be followed, having your stove at the end of the counter run could actually be the optimal choice for your home!
