Properly designing your pantry is crucial, or it may lead to inefficient use of time, space, and funds, claim the experts.
In the heart of every kitchen lies the pantry, a space designed for storage, organization, and convenience. For luxury cabinetmaker and designer, Richard Davonport, founder of kitchen specialists Davonport, a well-designed walk-in pantry is a crucial element in any kitchen.
Good lighting is essential for visibility and ambiance. Layered lighting, such as bright overhead lights for general illumination, LED strip lights under shelves to brighten corners, and motion-sensor lights for deeper or darker pantry areas, can make a significant difference. Natural light, if available, adds freshness and warmth.
When it comes to power, strategically placed electrical outlets can accommodate small appliances like coffee makers, microwaves, or even mini refrigerators. Outlets should be accessible yet discreet to maintain aesthetics and safety.
Proper ventilation is crucial to prevent moisture buildup, food spoilage, and odors. Incorporate passive ventilation via vents or active ventilation with an exhaust fan if the pantry contains any appliances generating heat or moisture. Good ventilation is also important to maintain a fresh environment and prevent mold.
While not always necessary, considering a water line and sink can be beneficial for utilities like a coffee station or for quick handwashing and cleaning. This is particularly useful for large walk-in pantries functioning as mini prep areas.
Maximizing vertical space with adjustable shelves, pull-out drawers, baskets with handles, Lazy Susan turntables, and vertical dividers can help make the most of your pantry's storage capacity. Choosing sturdy materials like wood or lacquered materials that are easy to clean is a practical choice. Label compartments and use clear stackable containers to keep items visible and organized.
When choosing materials and finishes, opt for light colours like soft white, taupe, or muted grey to make the space feel larger and brighter. Durable, easy-to-clean materials like quartz, laminate, or treated wood balance function with aesthetics.
Stacking baskets provide a space-saving solution and prevent items from being lost or forgotten at the back of shelves. Wire baskets offer a rustic charm, while clear baskets offer a sleek, modern touch. A pantry cupboard may be a more flexible solution if you're looking to add a pantry solution to an existing kitchen as they are available as freestanding units.
Bi-fold doors can be a great solution for a pantry cupboard with limited space for large opening doors. Plan for outlets at various heights to accommodate different appliances and their cords in your pantry design. Adequate lighting is essential for a walk-in pantry to ensure all items are visible and easy to locate.
When considering the size of your walk-in pantry, a minimum size of 4ft square is suggested if you only have a small space to work with. For comfortable and efficient use, Charlie Smallbone, founder of bespoke furniture brand Smallbone of Devizes, suggests a walk-in pantry should be at least three metres wide by one metre deep.
Carefully thought-out storage is a must in a walk-in pantry to avoid an out of sight out of mind approach. Additional storage options, such as racks for spices or smaller items, can further enhance organization in a walk-in pantry. Pull-out shelves or drawers can make it easier to access items at the back of deep shelves and are perfect for storing canned goods and smaller kitchen tools.
Claire Garner, a kitchen design expert, emphasizes the importance of visibility in pantry organization, reducing waste and avoiding overbuying. Proper ventilation is also key to keeping the pantry cool and preventing the build-up of moisture, which can spoil food.
Charlie Smallbone's current venture, Ledbury Studio, was born of his desire to harness the beauty of natural materials while creating practical kitchens that exude style and elegance. By following these practical design tips, you too can create a functional and stylish walk-in pantry that enhances the usability, safety, and comfort of your kitchen.
- A well-designed walk-in pantry is a cruical element in any kitchen, according to luxury cabinetmaker Richard Davonport.
- Good lighting is essential for visibility and ambiance in a walk-in pantry.
- Layered lighting, such as LED strip lights under shelves and motion-sensor lights, can make a significant difference in a walk-in pantry.
- Proper ventilation is crucial to prevent moisture buildup and odors in the pantry.
- Strategically placed electrical outlets can accommodate small appliances like coffee makers and mini refrigerators in the pantry.
- Maximizing vertical space with adjustable shelves, pull-out drawers, and other storage solutions can help make the most of a pantry's storage capacity.
- Choosing light colors like white, taupe, or muted grey for materials and finishes can help make the pantry feel larger and brighter.
- Bi-fold doors can be a great solution for a pantry cupboard with limited space for large opening doors.
- A pantry cupboard may be a more flexible solution if you're looking to add a pantry solution to an existing kitchen as they are available as freestanding units.
- When considering the size of your walk-in pantry, a minimum size of 4ft square is suggested, but a larger size of at least three meters wide by one metre deep is recommended for comfortable and efficient use.
