Assessing the value of a pantry: Experts affirm its worth, and here are the essential components to consider
A well-designed walk-in pantry can significantly increase the monetary value of a property, as it is a highly desirable feature that improves kitchen functionality and storage capacity. Homes featuring walk-in pantries are known to sell at a premium, with properties in St. Louis selling at 8.6% above list price [1].
The added value comes from several factors:
- Enhanced storage and organization: Walk-in pantries provide ample, dedicated space for food, kitchen appliances, and bulk items, reducing clutter in the kitchen itself and improving ease of use and efficiency.
- Perceived luxury and convenience: A walk-in pantry signals a higher-end, thoughtfully designed kitchen that appeals to buyers seeking modern living conveniences [2][3].
- Improved kitchen layout and functionality: A pantry enables better kitchen workflow, allowing the main kitchen area to remain clean and streamlined while still providing enough storage space.
- Square footage and usability: While not necessarily increasing total home square footage (unless built as an addition), the pantry adds "functional space" that buyers perceive as a bonus, similar to how adding rooms or ADUs (Accessory Dwelling Units) enhances value by increasing usable living/storage area [5].
Other contributing factors to the pantry’s monetary value include:
- Quality of design finishes and layout: Well-organized shelving, lighting, ventilation, and durable materials that maximize storage flexibility raise the pantry’s appeal [4].
- Integration with kitchen style: A pantry that complements or enhances the overall kitchen design increases perceived home value, especially when paired with modern, updated kitchen features [2][4].
- Market trends and buyer preferences: Since only a small percentage of homes offer walk-in pantries, having one becomes a standout selling point, increasing competitive advantage and value in markets where this feature is coveted [1].
Three elements are imperative when choosing a pantry or larder: how it looks, how well it’s made, and how much storage it contains. Thoughtful design elements, such as durable cabinetry, integrated lighting, adjustable shelving, custom accessories like spice racks and wine storage, enhance both the practicality and aesthetic appeal of a pantry.
If space is limited, a pantry cupboard can be the next best option. A corner shelf or a fitted pantry cupboard can be smart solutions for making the most out of smaller kitchen floorplans. For busy households that manage large weekly food shops, a well-designed pantry becomes an essential feature.
Cassie Jones, the brand manager at Masterclass Kitchens, a British kitchen manufacturer, emphasizes the importance of a beautiful and practical pantry. "Attention should be paid to the material and finishing touches," she says. "A pantry should not only be functional but also aesthetically pleasing."
Richard Davonport, the managing director at Davonport, a luxury cabinetmaker and designer, agrees. He states that adding a pantry can add up to 5% value to a property, which is similar to renovating a bathroom.
Al Bruce, the founder of Olive & Barr, a Shaker kitchen company, adds that a pantry adds value to most homes, but only if designed to meet the homeowner’s needs. "A pantry should be tailored to the homeowner's lifestyle and cooking habits," he says. "Slate is naturally cooler than quartz or marble, making it a traditional choice for pantries."
In conclusion, a well-designed walk-in pantry boosts property value by enhancing kitchen utility, elevating the home's luxury feel, and addressing a rising buyer demand, translating into higher sale prices and faster market movement. The exact monetary premium will depend on location, pantry design quality, and overall market conditions, but evidence shows premiums up to nearly 9% above list price where this feature is scarce and valued [1][4].
References:
[1] https://www.realtor.com/news/trends/walk-in-pantries-are-the-hottest-home-feature-right-now/ [2] https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/2616536/list/10-pantry-design-trends-to-watch-in-2021 [3] https://www.hgtv.com/design/real-estate/expert-advice/why-a-walk-in-pantry-is-a-must-have-feature-in-your-kitchen [4] https://www.realtor.com/advice/home-improvement/10-pantry-design-ideas-that-will-improve-your-kitchen-storage/ [5] https://www.realtor.com/advice/home-improvement/tiny-house-hacks-make-the-most-of-your-small-space/
- To boost a property's monetary value, consider adding a walk-in pantry, a desirable feature that enhances kitchen functionality and storage capacity.
- The added value comes from factors like enhanced storage, perceived luxury, improved kitchen layout, and increased square footage or usability.
- Quality of design finishes, integration with kitchen style, market trends, and buyer preferences also contribute to the pantry’s monetary value.
- When choosing a pantry, consider its design, construction quality, and storage capacity, with thoughtful design elements like durable cabinetry, integrated lighting, and custom accessories enhancing both practicality and aesthetic appeal.
- If space is limited, a pantry cupboard can be a smart solution, making the most out of smaller kitchen floorplans.
- For busy households managing large weekly food shops, a well-designed pantry becomes an essential feature.
- When designing a pantry, consider its aesthetic appeal and functionality, as both are crucial for homeowners seeking a beautiful and practical space.
- Material choices like slate, known for its cooling properties, can be a traditional choice for pantries, tailored to the homeowner's lifestyle and cooking habits.
- Evidence shows that a well-designed walk-in pantry can increase a property's value by up to nearly 9% above the list price, particularly in markets where this feature is scarce and valued.
