Pantries have come a long way from the dark, overstuffed closets of the past. Gone are the days of digging through expired canned goods or half-eaten cereal boxes just to find a snack. Today, whether it’s a spacious butler’s pantry or a cleverly organized nook in a city apartment, a well-designed pantry comes down to thoughtful planning, and we’re here to help you make it happen.
Let’s explore how smart organization and a few simple upgrades can transform your pantry into a functional, beautiful part of your kitchen.
Start with Lighting
No one likes a dim pantry—that is why good lighting is key! It can completely transform the space from a dark forgotten corner to a bright, functional extension of your main kitchen.
Here are a few lighting options we think you should consider:
- Overhead Lighting: This includes bright ceiling fixtures like recessed or flush mounts that will help light up the whole space and make everything easier to see.
- Task Lighting: Task lighting works well under cabinets or shelves to brighten your work surfaces. It’s also super handy when you’re chopping veggies or prepping snacks right in the pantry.
- Ambient Lighting: Adding accent lights to glass-front cabinets or open shelves creates a warm, inviting glow that can enhance the overall feel of your pantry. We recommend neutral white lighting in the 3000–4000K range for a soft, yet vibrant atmosphere.
Let’s Talk Countertops, Sinks, and Built-Ins
Your pantry can be more than just a series of shelves stacked with food! If you have the space, adding a countertop can take your pantry’s functionality to a whole new level. Take some time to explore your countertop material options. You can match your kitchen’s existing surfaces, whether it’s quartz, granite, or soapstone, or go for something unique like maple butcher block for a contrasting look.
Here are other features to include for function and visual appeal:
- Compact Sink & Faucet: This is great for rinsing produce or filling a pot without making a trip back to the main kitchen.
- Custom Built-Ins: Custom built-ins are a game changer for your storage needs. Design them to include deep drawers, pull-out shelves, or vertical racks for every day items like baking trays or cutting boards.
- Appliance Station: Keep bulky appliances (like your toaster oven or espresso machine) tucked away but still accessible. To do this, consider adding an appliance garage to neatly conceal them when they’re not in use to keep your pantry looking clean and clutter-free.
Don’t Forget the Doors
Your pantry door is a great place to add personality, and it doesn’t have to match the rest of your home’s interior doors. In fact, choosing something unique can turn it into a standout feature. Whether your style leans more modern or rustic, there are plenty of options to consider:
- Barn Door: Barn doors add some farmhouse charm and slides easily out of the way. We love sourcing them from Etsy, where you can find a wide range of high-quality, handcrafted options.
- Pocket Door: These are great for tight spaces where a swinging door isn’t practical.
- Antique Find: Antique doors from architectural salvage stores like Nor’East Architectural Antiques in Hampton, NH, can add a lot of character and make a beautiful statement piece.
Finishing Touches
We’re big fans of floating shelves—when used strategically. They’re perfect for items you reach for daily and keeps things feeling open and airy. Just remember: open storage means keeping things tidy! Try ditching the plastic and instead store your items (like pasta, rice, and cereal) in glass containers or matching jars. This not only keeps food fresh but also makes your pantry look clean and cohesive.
A few more favorites:
- Lazy Susan: Ideal for corners or deep shelves where things tend to get lost.
- Mini Fridge: Perfect for extra drinks, overflow produce, or holiday leftovers.
- Wine Cooler: Great for storing your favorite bottles at the right temperature.
- Pull-Out Bins: Use these for snacks, cereals, or grouping items together by category.
Designing a pantry isn’t about how much space you have, it’s about how well you use it. If you’re ready to breathe new life into your kitchen pantry, schedule a free consultation with us today to get started!
