How Tall Should a Highboard Be? Dimensions Guide

A highboard is a piece of furniture typically ranging in height between 100 cm and 130 cm, bridging the gap between a low chest of drawers and a full-height wardrobe.

When planning storage space in a room, choosing the right furniture height is a common challenge. A classic sideboard usually finishes at waist height, whereas a standard wardrobe occupies the full vertical space of the room. A highboard acts as a visual break: it offers substantially more volume than a low sideboard while keeping the upper half of the wall clear, making the room feel more spacious and airy.

In this guide, we explain which dimensions suit specific uses and what DIY enthusiasts need to bear in mind during assembly.

Typical Dimensions and Their Spatial Impact

The proportions of furniture determine whether it appears bulky or elegant. When planning storage space, consider the following standard reference values:

• Height: The standard height ranges between 100 cm and 130 cm. Units measuring from around 140 cm upwards are generally classified as tall storage units or multi-purpose cabinets. By comparison, a classic wardrobe 180 high dominates the wall surface, whereas the top surface of a highboard can still accommodate decorative items or lamps.
• Width: Common models are between 80 cm and 160 cm wide. A compact design, often perceived as a square block, might measure 100 cm wide by 100 cm high.
• Depth: For living rooms and dining areas, the standard depth is 40 cm to 45 cm. In narrow hallways, it is better to opt for models with a depth of only 30 cm to 35 cm so that walkways remain unobstructed.

The Right Format for Every Room

Choosing the correct dimensions depends heavily on available space and intended function.

Living Room and Dining Area

In living rooms, highboards are frequently used to store crockery, glassware, or files. In modern interior concepts, they are often integrated into a white high-gloss wall unit or positioned freestanding as a deliberate contrast. A black highboard set against a light wall creates a striking sense of depth. A sufficient depth of at least 40 cm is essential here to accommodate large dinner plates or binders easily.

Hallway and Entrance Area

Entrance halls are often narrow. In these spaces, a slim tall chest of drawers is a practical choice. With a narrower width (often only 50 cm to 60 cm) and reduced depth, it leaves plenty of room to move around. White high-gloss shoe cabinets also frequently utilise highboard heights, employing drop-down flap mechanisms to store as many shoes as possible within a compact footprint.

Bathroom

Floor space in bathrooms is typically restricted by sanitary fixtures. A tall bathroom cabinet makes efficient use of vertical space next to a washbasin or shower. Because towels and toiletries do not require significant depth, 30 cm is usually entirely adequate.

Bedroom

As a complement to a wardrobe, a high-gloss chest of drawers at highboard height is an ideal addition. It allows clothing and linens to be organised at eye level without having to bend down.

Assembly and Fitting: Tips for DIYers

Flat-pack furniture is generally made from coated chipboard or MDF. Successful assembly requires a methodical approach and the right tools.

Tools Required

• Cordless screwdriver with suitable bits (usually cross-head PZ or PH)
• Spirit level
• Wooden mallet
• Hammer drill (for wall fixings)

Key Points to Keep in Mind During Assembly

1. Carcass Assembly: The main structure is almost always assembled using cam and dowel connectors alongside wooden dowels. Take care not to drive the dowels in too deeply, otherwise they can burst through the outer decorative surface.
2. Back Panel: The back panel provides structural rigidity. It is either slotted into a groove or nailed in place. Before securing it, measure the carcass diagonally with a tape measure. If both diagonals are identical in length, the cabinet is perfectly square.
3. Doors and Drawer Runners: Cabinet doors are mounted to the carcass using concealed cup hinges. These hinges can be adjusted in height, depth, and lateral alignment via three adjustment screws until the reveal gaps are uniform. For drawers, drawer runner tracks are standard. A full-extension runner allows complete access to the drawer interior, whereas a partial-extension runner leaves the back quarter inside the carcass.
4. Anti-Tip Protection: This is the most crucial step for any furniture 100 cm in height or taller. A highboard must always be secured to the wall using brackets and suitable wall plugs. When doors or drawers are opened simultaneously, the centre of gravity shifts drastically forward. Without wall fixings, there is a serious risk of tipping.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How tall is a standard highboard? Standard heights range between 100 cm and 130 cm. Units below 100 cm are usually categorised as sideboards or chests of drawers, while units measuring 140 cm and above are classed as full cabinets or tall cupboards.

Do I need to fix a highboard to the wall? Yes. Due to the height and the leverage created by open doors or extended drawers, anti-tip brackets are essential. Use heavy-duty wall plugs suitable for your specific wall construction (masonry, concrete, or plasterboard stud walls).

What is the ideal depth for narrow hallways? For tight spaces or hallways, depths between 30 cm and 35 cm are recommended. This maintains clear walkway clearance while still providing ample storage for keys, hats, or footwear.

How do I align cabinet doors properly? Alignment is done via the concealed hinge mechanism inside. The front screw adjusts the door gap relative to the carcass, the rear screw alters the lateral tilt, and loosening the mounting plate fixing screws allows height adjustment.