1. Where should the pantry go? It’s important that your pantry is near where you are preparing food. You need to get in and out of your pantry quickly when cooking. If the pantry is positioned where it hinders the flow of kitchen traffic, you’ll have to walk too far to grab essential ingredients. Replenishing the pantry can also be addressed at the planning stage. If possible, have a countertop that is just outside the pantry - this will provide a good place to set down groceries and sort/organise all your stock.

2. What kind of door works in the space? Make sure the door doesn’t get in the way. When space is at a premium, the best options are sliding or folding doors. An outward-opening door gives more room for pantry shelves and is the next best option - but only if there is plenty of space to swing the door wide open. A door that swings inward may work, but it can make an already small space even smaller. The space behind the door of your pantry will be limited and reduces the amount of items you can store inside.

3. How should the shelving be arranged? The heavier the dishware and servingware the lower they should be stored. Put wider shelves at the bottom and work up from there. The most used items should be on shallow shelves closest to the entrance with shorter items at the front and larger items behind so everything can be seen clearly. Try to avoid putting shelves from top to bottom with no break. Think about installing a counter height shelf that is a bit wider (16”-20”). This can hold larger, taller items and appliances, while also opening up a bit of extra counter space for food prep.

4. How can top shelves be accessed? If you are going to have floor-to-ceiling storage, store things you regularly use from eye level down. Make sure you leave room for a step ladder. Some can be folded down and hung from a hook for easy access. One way to see what is on the upper shelves of your pantry without clambering up a step ladder is to install glass shelving or wire racks on the upper level.

5. Does the pantry need any special features? Wine racks, pull out baskets, large platter cubbies, spice racks, lazy suzans, large cubbies for appliances. Plan ahead for permanent useful features that suit your needs.

6. Utilize free wall space without overcrowding the pantry? Keep it slim and simple. Paint a portion with chalkboard paint to keep important notes. Use hooks at different heights to hang aprons, utensils and towels.

7. Where can you store larger items and what are they? Small appliances and larger cookware dishes/pans can be stored in the pantry. To accommodate these bulky items, create some large but uniformed cubbies – this will make it easier to access them.

These 7 easy steps can help to make your pantry a success. If you ahve any further questions please do not hesistate to contact us.