Wall cabinet size

[lwhughes149]

I am in the planning stages for wall cabinets that will go up against the pantry cabinets I have just about finished. I have an available space of 40" for the wall cabinets to the left of the pantry, the pantry going in a corner. I plan roughly a 12' opening on the far end for wine bottles and the balance will be a two door cabinet. I understand that smaller units are easier to hang. Would a 40" cabinet be too large, if it is, my plan is to make one unit to include the wine space and then make an additional cabinet. Appreciate all thoughts on this matter.
So you can get a visual of the set of cabinets, the wine space is 12 x 12 and will have an end panel behind it. That end cabinet is two cabinets that go in the other direction. This is an inner wall with 52" going one way and the 40" going the other. The 52" space will have one cabinet 37" long. Not much difference in 37" and 40" is there? Help me before I get into trouble.
One additional question if I may. Discuss the back of the cabinet. Pros and cons for 1/4" plywood backs. I have noticed both applications. Lorraine

[Gofor]

Originally Posted by lwhughes149

...I plan roughly a 12' opening on the far end for wine bottles ... the wine space is 12 x 12 ..Lorraine

Sounds like a big kitchen and set up for a BIG party!!

[Travis Porter]

I personally would make it one 40 inch cabinet. It will be a little heavy to put up, but it is easier in the long run IMO.

As for backs, I normally use 1/4" plywood. I normally give myself a 1" rabbet for the ply so that I can scribe, cut and level. I would put nailers in the top and bottom. As to putting the nailers on the inside or back side, it is a matter of personal preference IMO. I have put them on the inside so I don't lose that much more space overall on the inside.

[lwhughes149]

Thanks Travis, one piece it will be.