Table of Contents
- How Deep Is A Kitchen Worktop in the UK?
- Benefits of Having Extra Wide Kitchen Worktops
- Standard Vs Extra Deep Worktop Sizes
- Why Extra Depth Works So Well In Modern UK Kitchens?
- Best Materials for an Extra-Deep Kitchen Worktop
- Are Extra-Wide Kitchen Worktops Comfortable To Use?
- Are Extra Deep Kitchen Islands Practical?
- Can You Get A Bespoke Extra Deep Kitchen Worktop In The UK?
- Is an Extra Deep Worktop Safe to Install in a Kitchen?
- Final Thoughts
- Frequently Asked Questions and Answers
In the UK we will see kitchen worktops follow the standard 600mm worktop depth. This depth is practical, predictable and, most importantly, fits almost all cabinet systems that are sold in the UK market. But over the past few years, homeowners have started asking for more surface space; they want stronger visual impact and better proportions for open-plan layouts. Because of this demand, extra deep worktop is grabbing more attention in the UK.
Increasing the depth of your worktop means you get more space, of course, but design-wise as well, it looks different. It can be done for a new kitchen as well as in a situation when we upgrade our kitchens. Let us look at all the details, advantages, sizes and materials for kitchen worktops to guide you with your upcoming purchase.
Also Read: Standard Worktop Height | UK Kitchen Counter Guide
How Deep Is A Kitchen Worktop in the UK?
If we talk about a standard UK kitchen worktop, the size is 600mm deep. An extra-wide worktop usually starts at 700mm. This size can be a little bit deeper, that is, 750mm, or hugely deep, like 900mm.
How deep you want your worktop to be cannot be decided at the last minute when ordering your worktop, though. When you order your kitchen cabinets, you have to share this information with your cabinet supplier about how deep you desire your kitchen worktops to be. And then they will hand you the layout.
That additional 100–300mm may not sound dramatic on paper, but in real life it changes how the space feels and performs.
INDIGO QUARTZ
£334.25
Indigo quartz countertops are quickly becoming an unmistakably traditional shading choice. Indigo quartz looks fantastic in both contemporary and classic kitchen designs, It also has a light grey base with white Veins. It can be used indoorsGrey quartz veined with… read more
BLACK METALLIC QUARTZ
£327.50
Black Metallic Quartz is an eye-catching interior surface slab that features a black base with shiny, reflective, metallic flecks. It is given a dazzling finish that makes a perfect addition in both residential and commercial settings. It is a dream… read more
BLACK MIRROR QUARTZ
£293.75
Black Mirror Quartz is designed to absorb light and reflect the shiny mirrored flecks within, giving your home or office a dazzling finish. With many kitchens now incorporating additional lighting such as LEDs and halogen down-lights, starlight surfaces can really… read more
Benefits of Having Extra Wide Kitchen Worktops
Get more usable preparation space with an extra deep worktop
Better clearance behind hobs and sinks
Room for integrated breakfast bars
Improved proportions in larger kitchens
It’s particularly popular in open-plan homes where the kitchen needs to feel balanced against bigger rooms.
Read Next: Standard Worktop Height | UK Kitchen Counter Guide
Standard Vs Extra Deep Worktop Sizes
When comparing depths, it’s not just about measurement. It’s about usability.
600mm Deep Worktop
Fits standard base units
Works well in compact kitchens
Limited rear clearance
700mm Deep Worktop
Extra prep space without overwhelming cabinetry
Ideal for quartz and granite installations
Allows small seating overhang
750mm–900mm Deep Worktop
Strong design statement
Perfect for kitchen islands
Allows integrated seating
Suitable for bespoke cabinetry
Why Extra Depth Works So Well In Modern UK Kitchens?
Modern kitchen design has shifted. Appliances are larger. Coffee machines, air fryers, and statement taps all compete for surface space.
An extra-wide kitchen worktop gives breathing room.
Instead of placing appliances right against the splashback, you gain usable space behind them. This improves both safety and practicality, especially around hobs.
Visually, deeper worktops also create a more premium finish. They look substantial. Intentional. Balanced.
In open-plan homes, that added depth helps the kitchen feel proportionate rather than narrow.
Best Materials for an Extra-Deep Kitchen Worktop
Not every material performs equally at increased depth. Weight, strength, and fabrication matter.
Quartz
Deep quartz worktops are extremely popular because engineered stone offers strength and consistency across larger spans. It handles increased depth without structural compromise and provides a sleek finish ideal for contemporary kitchens.
Granite
Granite kitchens deliver natural character and durability. But if you are planning to install a 700mm extra deep worktop made of granite, go with professional experts only. Granite is extremely heavy, so only experts with many decades of experience can work on it professionally.
Porcelain
A lot of customers ask about porcelain now.
It’s thinner. Feels a bit more modern. Works well if you like that minimal look without chunky edges.
Because it’s lighter than most natural stone, it can suit deeper worktops nicely. That said, depth changes the load slightly. So we always check cabinet strength first, especially with bigger island runs.
Better to sort it properly than fix it later.
Check out More Stone Slabs for your new kitchen countertop.
Are Extra-Wide Kitchen Worktops Comfortable To Use?
How do I actually use my kitchen?
Do I entertain often?
Am I planning an island with seating?
Or do I just want a bit more elbow room?
Answer these to yourself.
For many UK homes, 700mm is the sweet spot. Noticeably better than 600mm. Not over the top. Sensible. Practical.
750mm and 900mm? Great for islands. Brilliant for statement kitchens. But they need proper planning.
Done properly, an extra wide worktop doesn’t just look impressive in photos. It makes cooking easier. Cleaning is simpler. And the whole room feels better balanced.
Are you thinking about upgrading your kitchen with extra deep worktop? Do not skip having a proper chat with an experienced fabricator first. Measurements matter. Support matters. Access for installation matters.
Must Read: How Much Support Does A Kitchen Worktop Need?
Are Extra Deep Kitchen Islands Practical?
Absolutely and in many cases, they work best here.
Kitchen island worktop depth often exceeds perimeter runs because islands serve multiple purposes:
Food preparation
Casual dining
Social space
Storage
An island with 900mm depth can comfortably support seating while maintaining preparation space. It also creates visual weight, anchoring the room.
You can request a free quote for your new kitchen worktops here.
Can You Get A Bespoke Extra Deep Kitchen Worktop In The UK?
Yes. Most stone fabricators offer bespoke worktops, especially in quartz, granite, and porcelain.
However, there are practical considerations:
Cabinet reinforcement may be required
Overhangs need structural support
Sink and hob positioning must be adjusted for your extra-deep kitchen worktop
Installation access must be assessed
Bespoke fabrication allows exact sizing — whether that’s 720mm to align with custom cabinetry or 880mm for a specific island design.
It’s rarely a “one size fits all” decision.
Send your query to info@work-tops.com for bespoke countertops.
ROSE QUARTZ SEMI PRECIOUS
£2,372.75
Rose Quartz Semi Precious Stone Slab is a fantastic decorative stone slab that is popularly used by both residential homeowners as well as commercial property owners. It has a soft visual appearance that features repetitive designs created by colours like… read more
BLUE AGATE SEMI PRECIOUS
£2,372.75
Blue Agate Semi Precious Stone Slab is a fantastic decorative stone slab that is popularly used by both residential homeowners as well as commercial property owners. It has an enchanting visual appearance that features multiple pebble like designs in blue,… read more
LAPIZ LAZULLI SEMI PRECIOUS
£4,060.25
Lapiz Lazulli Semi Precious Stone Slab has a striking visual appearance created by deep blue colour. This stunning decorative stone slab is popularly used by both residential homeowners as well as commercial property owners. Also, this stain-resistant semi-precious slab is… read more
Is an Extra Deep Worktop Safe to Install in a Kitchen?
Before committing, consider:
Cabinet Support
Standard base units are built for 600mm tops. Increasing depth shifts weight distribution forward.
Overhang Limits
For seating areas, safe unsupported overhang is usually limited unless brackets are installed.
Appliance Positioning
Hobs and sinks may need repositioning to maintain safe clearances.
Room Proportions
In smaller kitchens, excessive depth can restrict movement.
A professional site survey ensures everything works structurally and aesthetically.
Read Next: Design Ideas for Luxury Home Bar UK | Bespoke Stone Worktops
Final Thoughts
An extra deep kitchen worktop is about how your kitchen actually feels to use. Every day. Think about it.
Are you always running out of prep space? In busy family homes, the added depth gives you breathing space. You’re not balancing chopping boards on the edge. You’re not wiping splashes off the wall constantly. Things just feel… less cramped.
And in open-plan kitchens? It looks right. Proportional. Solid. Not skinny or squeezed in.
But here’s the honest bit: it’s not for everyone.
If the kitchen is tight on space, going for extra deep worktop can make walkways feel narrow. If the cabinets aren’t reinforced properly, weight becomes an issue because stone is heavy. Especially quartz and granite.
Frequently Asked Questions and Answers
How Deep Is An Extra Wide Worktop?
In most UK kitchens, standard depth is 600mm. So if you order anything from 700mm upwards, your worktop will be considered extra deep. Common sizes are 700mm, 750mm and 900mm.
Is a 700mm Worktop Better Than 600mm?
For a lot of households, yes. It gives you more prep space straight away. You’ll notice it when cooking. But it usually doesn’t require a full redesign of your cabinets. That’s why many homeowners choose it as a practical upgrade.
Can I Install A 900mm Quartz Worktop?
You can, but it needs to be planned properly. Quartz is strong, but it’s heavy. Cabinets may need reinforcing. Overhangs for seating need support brackets. This isn’t a DIY job. Professional templating and installation are essential.
Are Extra Wide Worktops Only For Large Kitchens?
No, you can install a wide kitchen worktop, like 700mm depth in a medium-sized kitchen as well. It just needs careful planning so walkways stay comfortable and the room doesn’t feel tight.
Do Extra Deep Worktops Cost More?
In most cases, yes. You’re using more material. There may be extra fabrication involved. And sometimes cabinet adjustments are needed. That said, many people feel the extra usability makes it worthwhile.
Can We Install 900mm Porcelain Worktops?
Porcelain is usually slimmer than quartz or granite, which gives it that sharp, contemporary edge. Looks great in open-plan kitchens. You can go for 900mm depth, no problem, but it needs decent support underneath. Call 0330 113 5868 for a proper site check to avoid headaches down the line.
