Are you looking to maximize your kitchen storage space and bring a designer look to an area that might otherwise focus on function? Consider turning a boring or inefficient pantry into a stylish and upgraded one or building a bespoke pantry to help keep your home organized and looking beautiful.
Today’s pantry trends emphasize functionality and style, making the best use of space while providing homeowners with personalized, smart, and showpiece-worthy storage solutions. From custom pantries and walk-in designs to concealed units and pantries that integrate with existing cabinetry, there are many ideas to transform an average or unorganized storage area.
Below are some of the top pantry trends and tips for bringing your kitchen storage space to the next level, whether you plan to stay in your home for years or sell it soon.
Bespoke Pantries
When you build a custom pantry from the ground up, you can be thoughtful in layout and tailor your storage solution to meet specific organizational and aesthetic needs. Trends in bespoke pantries include custom cabinetry inside and out and personalized shelving solutions to maximize efficiency and beauty.
Walk-In Designs
Larger walk-in pantries are on trend due to the ample storage space they provide, some areas large enough to hold food prep stations with a countertop and sink. Consider a walk-in pantry if you have the room and need a place to hold multiple small appliances along with your non-perishables and kitchen items that don’t fit in cabinets (and more counter and drawer space).
Concealed Units
A concealed pantry blends seamlessly into the kitchen’s cabinetry and overall decor. It’s sometimes hidden behind cabinets or integrated into a wall to provide a streamlined and clean look. If you want to minimize the eyesore that a pantry can sometimes be, think about adding a concealed unit (choose handleless cabinet doors).
Colorful Pantries
Colorful pantries can give a kitchen a fun and personalized focal point (think pops of color through paint, wallpaper, and decals). Go with a bold hue or pattern to make a statement, a muted shade for a more subtle design effect, or a combination of colors that coordinate with your kitchen’s countertop or backsplash.
Contrasting Cabinetry
Some of the most striking pantries incorporate contrasting materials and colors to create a look that adds visual interest, keeping a kitchen from feeling boring or uninspiring. You can achieve this style by using different materials or colors on the upper and lower cabinets and shelves or within the pantry itself, always taking care to maintain a sense of cohesiveness.
Recycled and Repurposed Materials
Reclaimed woods and repurposed cabinet hardware add an eco-friendly touch to a pantry remodel. To make the most of this sustainable pantry trend, consider repurposing glass jars and other storage containers to hold your dry goods and kitchen essentials.
Dedicated Zones
Organizing your pantry by food type (baking goods, canned foods, cereals, beverages, etc.) and even having dedicated zones for small appliances, paper goods, and other kitchen essentials keeps everything in its place, offering greater efficiency. You don’t need a large space to separate into zones. Simply start by grouping similar items and selecting appropriately sized storage containers, then optimize vertical space by storing like items together where they fit best and are within easy and logical reach.
Fun Features
Have you dreamed of setting up a coffee bar but don’t have the room? Reserve a section (or shelf) of your pantry for an espresso machine, milk frother, flavored syrups, and other coffee must-haves. Are you wondering what to do with a little extra space in your pantry (and that random electrical outlet)? Install a wine refrigerator, ice maker, or small dishwasher.
Why Consider a Custom Pantry
If you’re thinking about remodeling your kitchen—even a small renovation—consider making a custom pantry party of your redesign. Buyers love homes with ample and creative storage solutions, and having a well-organized and attractive pantry can be a huge selling point.
Even if you don’t plan on moving for a while, you can enhance your kitchen’s functionality and enjoy an upgraded design with a pantry makeover. Designer pantries elevate a necessary part of a home beyond mundane and into the must-have realm.
Other Custom Pantry Features
Here are even more features to consider when adding a custom pantry.
Decorative lighting. Install a pendant light or under-cabinet lighting to play up your pantry’s features and create a designer-looking space.
Uniform and decorative containers. Custom pantries get a visual and functional boost with storage containers that fit the space, are uniform, and have clear labels.
Custom shelving. Add custom-built shelves to accommodate existing small appliances, containers, and kitchen accessories. Get as personalized as you want, designing your pantry to efficiently and beautifully store everything you use regularly for everyday living and entertaining.
Are you looking to sell or buy a new home? Let Better Homes and Gardens® Real Estate walk you through the process.