Have you tried every trick in the book to keep your kitchen cupboards organized, but still lack sufficient storage space? If so, it might be time for you to build a kitchen pantry. The good news is that you don’t need to have a huge amount of blank space in your kitchen to build a usable pantry … or larder, as it is sometimes called. In fact, a small corner, some wall space or even a hall closet will do.
Different Types of Kitchen Pantries
Here is a look at the four main types of pantries used in most kitchens, along with a fifth alternative that isn’t often seen here in North America:
Walk-in Pantries
This is typically the most desirable pantry option. Much like a walk-in closet, a walk-in pantry is a room within the room. This style of pantry offers the most space for the storage of food and other kitchen essentials. Building a walk-in pantry requires a bit of square footage, but not as much as some people may think.
Image source: Country Living UK and Decorpad
Reach-in Pantries
Smaller than a walk-in, this style of pantry can often be created between wall studs or within a closet. This is the most commonly found pantry style in Canadian homes. Many homeowners consider the allotted space to be insufficient.
Image source: HGTV and Carla Aston
Freestanding Pantry Cabinets
This is essentially a freestanding cupboard. These pantries do not typically require the services of a builder, unless you want something custom made.
Image source: Decoholic and Decorated Life
Pull Out Pantries
A pullout pantry is integrated into your kitchen cabinetry. This is an ideal solution if you d not have any additional wall space. You will need to contact a custom cabinet builder if you wish to have this style of pantry installed.
Image source: House Beautiful and Brit+Co
Butler’s Pantry
This type of pantry is used to store serving items, dishware and silverware, rather than food. The butler’s pantry is not typically found outside of luxury homes here in North America.
Image source: Gallerie B and Tiny Me
Space-Saving Pantry Add-Ons
If you plan to build a walk-in or reach-in pantry there are several different space-saving accessories that you can include. These additions will not only allow you to maximize your storage space, but they also give you the option of storing different types of items.
Lazy Susan
Adding a lazy susan, whether built-in or placed in, will make it much easier to reach any cans or other items stored at the back of your shelves.
Drawers
This is another way to provide 360 degree accessibility to your pantry.
Wine Rack
Whether your future pantry will be large or small, you can add wine rack inserts to keep your favourite bottle nearby.
Countertop
Do you need a place to store small appliances? If you have the space, adding a small countertop may prove to be extremely useful.
DIY or Call a Pro
While some homeowners are lucky enough to be extremely handy when it comes to small building projects, many of us will require the services of a professional. You might need to contact a custom cabinet builder, handyman or even a contractor –depending upon the size of your job.
Ready to get started? Search the listings here on EiEi Home to find the professional nearest you.
