Grounded in published
industry standards
KitchenAI360 references publicly documented industry standards when checking layout parameters. This page explains exactly which standards we use, how we use them, and — equally important — what we do not guarantee.
Our transparency principle
We believe you should know exactly what data sources we reference and what they cover. We do not use proprietary scoring systems or undisclosed rules. Every flagged item in a review links to the published guideline it is based on.
What we reference
The following published standards form the basis of KitchenAI360's specification checks.
NKBA Kitchen Planning Guidelines
National Kitchen & Bath Association
Scope
The NKBA publishes a set of kitchen planning guidelines covering recommended clearances, workflow zone placement, appliance spacing, and landing area requirements. These guidelines represent current industry best practice for residential kitchen design.
How KitchenAI360 uses it
KitchenAI360 uses the NKBA clearance and spacing recommendations as the primary reference when checking kitchen layout parameters. Where a layout may conflict with a guideline, the platform flags the item and cites the relevant guideline number.
The NKBA guidelines are recommendations, not legal code. They represent professional best practice, not mandatory minimums in all jurisdictions.
International Residential Code (IRC)
International Code Council (ICC)
Scope
The IRC establishes minimum construction and safety requirements for one- and two-family dwellings. Relevant sections cover minimum kitchen clearances, ventilation requirements, and utility rough-in positioning.
How KitchenAI360 uses it
KitchenAI360 references selected IRC clearance requirements where they apply to layout parameters. This is limited to the dimensions and spacing requirements most directly relevant to kitchen layout review.
The IRC is a model code. Local jurisdictions adopt and amend it independently. KitchenAI360 does not account for local amendments or jurisdiction-specific requirements.
ADA Standards for Accessible Design
U.S. Access Board / Department of Justice
Scope
The ADA Standards specify minimum dimensions for accessible residential and commercial spaces, including kitchen clearances for wheelchair turning radius, countertop heights, and appliance reach ranges.
How KitchenAI360 uses it
When accessibility considerations are indicated, KitchenAI360 references ADA clearance minimums for relevant layout parameters. This is intended as informational guidance for accessible design planning.
ADA compliance for commercial and public accommodation spaces requires professional assessment. KitchenAI360 does not provide ADA compliance certification.
What we do not guarantee
Being clear about our limitations is part of our commitment to accuracy. Read this section carefully before relying on KitchenAI360 output for professional or construction decisions.
Not a compliance certification
KitchenAI360 does not certify that any kitchen layout meets code, ADA requirements, or any other legal standard. The platform provides reference information based on published guidelines — not a compliance audit.
Not a substitute for professional review
All guidance produced by the platform should be reviewed by a qualified professional — kitchen designer, architect, contractor, or building official — before it is acted upon. Design decisions that affect construction, permits, or occupancy safety require professional sign-off.
Does not account for local code variations
Building codes in the United States are adopted and amended at the state and local level. The IRC is a model code; your jurisdiction may have adopted a different version, or applied local amendments. KitchenAI360 does not know or account for your jurisdiction's specific requirements.
Does not cover commercial kitchens
KitchenAI360 is designed for residential kitchen planning. Commercial kitchens are subject to different standards, including NSF, health department requirements, and local fire codes. These are outside our scope.
Standards are updated periodically
The NKBA, ICC, and ADA periodically update their published guidelines and standards. We reference a specific version of each and will note when our references are updated. We cannot guarantee that the version we reference reflects the most current edition at all times.
AI output is not perfect
The platform uses AI to interpret and apply specification guidelines. AI systems can produce incorrect or incomplete outputs. All flagged items and specification notes should be treated as input for professional review — not as definitive findings.
What falls outside our scope
- Structural engineering assessments
- Electrical, plumbing, and mechanical code compliance
- Local authority having jurisdiction (AHJ) interpretations
- Commercial kitchen or food-service facility requirements
- Fire safety and egress code review
- Historic preservation or HOA restrictions
Questions about our approach?
If you have questions about the standards we reference or our methodology, we are happy to discuss it. Reach out or request a demo.