Kitchen storage has evolved from just an oversized cupboard to spaces that rival the primary bedroom’s walk-in closet. What was once an afterthought in kitchen design, the pantry is now one of the most highly desired features in a new home.
Today’s kitchen pantry provides more space, convenience, and a little bit of luxury. Here are the must-haves for today’s pantry.
Maximized Storage
A walk-in kitchen pantry offers homeowners the convenience of clearing up valuable counter and cabinet space in the kitchen. Unlike traditional pantries, which are often just a couple of extra shelves, a walk-in pantry can be designed to maximize space and hold more than just a few cans of vegetables, providing a sense of relief from kitchen clutter.
Your walk-in pantry should include cabinets with pull-out drawers and shelving, which can be used to hold and organize canned food, snacks, and dry staples without being difficult to reach. The pantry can be for more than just food; it can also be used to store small appliances, which is a great idea since it will reduce clutter in your kitchen.
More than just a Functional Space
Like we’ve seen with laundry rooms, the pantry has become more than just a functional space. Your walk-in kitchen pantry is an opportunity to reflect your unique style and your home’s aesthetic. It should be a place that boosts your mood while you’re doing a task you may not prefer: cooking a meal.
Lighting plays a vital role in the ambiance of your pantry. Having overhead lighting that isn’t overpowering but is bright enough to allow you to find what you are looking for is a must. We like using motion-activated lighting to make the space more convenient and save energy.
We also recommend having some open shelving mixed with closed cabinets to allow for maximum organization while giving the space some character. Lastly, the floors should not be an afterthought. Installing decorative yet easy-to-clean tile will make the space look more lively.
Kitchen Adjacent and Accessible
Your walk-in pantry should be close to your kitchen so you aren’t hauling items all over the house. It should also be set up in a way that is easily accessible for all abilities—this is really important for those who plan to age in place and also smart to consider for resale, providing a sense of security for all family members
To enhance accessibility, you should include features like sliding doors that can be opened without taking up extra space. You could also include countertops or an island in your walk-in kitchen pantry, which can act as an easy spot to prepare food or unload your groceries.
For heavier, more bulky items, like a stand mixer or air fryer, you could have a base cabinet with a lift so you can avoid bending and lifting, which can lead to injury. Today’s kitchen pantry is more than just a functional space. It should reflect your personality while also storing your kitchen goods. Creating a space that works for you and your kitchen needs will be the perfect addition to your kitchen and make your everyday tasks so much easier.
If you’d like to learn more about including a walk-in pantry in your kitchen remodel, we’re here to help!
Related: Smart vs. Traditional: Choosing the Best Home Automation for Your Renovation
