Shallow depth cabinets are kitchen cabinets designed with a front-to-back measurement that is significantly slimmer than the standard 24-inch depth found in most base cabinets. At 27estore, our shallow base cabinets are 11 3/4 inches deep and range from 9" to 48" wide. These slim-profile cabinets are ideal for kitchens, pantries, and utility areas where space is tight or where traffic flow is a concern.
What Makes a Cabinet "Shallow Depth"?
Standard base cabinets are typically 24 inches deep, which can be too large for small kitchens, galley layouts, or converted spaces like apartment alcoves. Shallow base cabinets reduce that footprint to around 12 inches or less, making them easier to fit in tight areas without sacrificing essential storage.
Key characteristics:
- Depth around 12 inches (11 3/4" at 27estore)
- Available in multiple widths, including 9", 12", 15", and up to 48", with nearly full customization available for non-standard sizes
- Offered in both single and double-door configurations
- Drawer options available on request
- Often used as lower cabinets along narrow walls or behind doors
When Should You Use Shallow Cabinets?
Shallow kitchen cabinets solve problems that standard cabinets can’t. Use them when:
- You're working with a galley or corridor-style kitchen
- You need extra storage along a wall that can’t accommodate full-depth units
- You want to avoid interrupting the flow of movement in a tight kitchen
- You're designing for small apartments, tiny homes, or ADUs
- You need additional cabinetry in pantries, laundry rooms, or breakfast nooks
These cabinets are also great for turning otherwise unused wall space into functional storage without crowding the room.
Shallow Cabinets and Drawers
One of the most common questions is whether drawers are possible in shallow base cabinets. The answer is yes. Custom drawer configurations can be made to fit the reduced depth, making it easier to store utensils, pantry items, or cleaning supplies without overextending into walking space.
Common Sizes and Options
At 27estore, we offer:
- Single-door cabinets from 9" to 24" wide
- Double-door cabinets from 27" to 48" wide
- Almost full customization available, including non-standard widths
- Drawer configurations available on request
All cabinets are flat-packed and easy to assemble, with soft-close hardware and frameless European styling. They can be finished in solid colors, textured woodgrains, or real wood veneers. While this overview highlights how shallow-depth cabinetry fits into tight layouts, this deeper dive into 12-inch base cabinets explores specific layout strategies and custom sizing options for compact kitchens.
Should You Replace Full-Depth Cabinets with Shallow Ones?
Not always. Shallow cabinets are best used where full-depth cabinets won't fit or where you want to open up the space. In many kitchens, a combination of standard and shallow cabinets creates the best layout by balancing storage, accessibility, and flow.
Final Thoughts
Shallow cabinets are a smart choice for space-conscious design. Whether you're planning a compact kitchen or adding a narrow run of lower cabinets to a tight area, these reduced-depth solutions help you create storage without overcrowding.
Browse our shallow base cabinet collection to explore all sizes and styles.
