A typical kitchen design includes storage space consisting of cabinets, drawers, and cupboards in a household. Still, these may not seem sufficient at times. For example, you can wonder where to store stuff like appliances, dry foods, dishwashers, cutlery, and other such items. As an alternative, you can think of adding a pantry. While it represents extra space in a smaller kitchen, a well-planned pantry can be a decorative touch to a bigger one. Of course, you may ask why you need a pantry when the kitchen already has storage systems. But decisions like these demand contemplations because some features don’t just cater to immediate needs but also take care of long-term requirements.
For example, you can go back to the idea of choosing a long-lasting kitchen basin. You expect it to perform both functional and aesthetic roles for as long as possible. Similarly, you can look at the utility of a walk-in pantry. In 2021, this kitchen upgrade has drawn enormous attention for allowing people to store more and cook more. So, if you go with it, you already know the perks of having it. Still, a few considerations deserve your heed. Here is a quick rundown onthis to help you visualize your choice better.
Cost of a walk-in pantry
On average, this project can be worth anywhere from $750 to $3,500. Since a lot depends on size, location, and finish, it can be challenging to come with exact figures without knowing the specifics. For example, if you decide to build a 5 x 5 feet small walk-in pantry, you will pay about $750 – $2,000. On the other hand, the cost might shoot up to $2,000 to $3,500 if you build 100 square feet one. On top of this, there will be charges for a permit, drywallrepair, electrical wire installation, etc.
Storage organization
You would need varying heights of shelves to accommodate different types of items – canned goods, cereal boxes, and oversized items. For example, large packaging can be 18 to 20 inches in size, while cereal boxes 14 to 16 inches, and canned items 6.5 to 7 inches. The shelves should provide two inches extra space for the tallest products. But, then, you also have to take a call about depth. Some homeowners believe deeper shelves can be more functional. But these end up creating dead space. Also, some things can escape your eyes due to hiding too far behind. It can lead to wastage of food.
Decorative details
You will want your pantry to match the visual appeal of your kitchen if it is immediately accessible from there. However, you can cut down your expenses on fixtures and finishes when it is not so visible from your cooking zone. Again, it depends on your taste and selection. You can opt for custom cabinets and high-end countertops to lend a luxurious touch to even this storage corner if you don’t have budget constraints. Since it includes a mix of open and covered cabinets, you can choose fine paints and wallpapers.
Some people opt for crown molding as it enhances the overall interior look by many notches. If you also favor this idea, it can be helpful to explore different designs, such as traditional, architectural, colonial, and more, in tune with your existing décor. In addition to this, another attractive feature can be storage baskets. Get these in different sizes, textures, and colors to give your walk-in pantry a dramatic effect. Finally, you could think about what else you can fit in this essentially functional place. Well, how about hanging a pinboard, blackboard, or whiteboard on a wall? It can have your running list of grocery items to keep you updated about the need to restock.
A little splurge
Having a small wine cooler in a strategic nook of the walk-in pantry can reflect your refined taste and personality. If you enjoy wines, you wouldn’t mind exploring this idea. You can find it in the range of $160 to $1,600 at local home improvement stores. At the same time, paying attention to the selection of lights is crucial. While it offers functional value, you can invest in intelligent lighting systems to decorate this space with style. From motion sensor ceiling lights to LED strips, you again have no shortage of varieties.
Another must-have in this area can be an insulated door. For storing your dry food safely, you have to maintain 50 to 70 degrees temperature in the pantry. You can achieve this by installing the insulated door. It will keep everything fresh and cool.
Things to consider
Walk-in pantry building effort demands expert DIY skills. If you are not confident about this, hire a contractor to do the job. Professionals can complete their tasks on time within the allocated budget. But you shouldn’t mind spending a few extra dollars if needed. Besides, if you plan to operate appliances or add a wine cooler to your pantry, you would require electrical connections for these. Your contractor should know this beforehand. Otherwise, it can cost more money and time too. Some people suggest that every shelf should be able to carry 50 pounds of weight. Hence, don’t forget to ensure this in the designs.
The concept of a walk-in pantry has recently gained prominence in the market. While it came into focus this late, you cannot deny the significance of having ample storage space at your disposal. If you can make way for it close to your kitchen, it will be even better. After all, you will not need to walk too many steps to fetch necessary ingredients from one side to another. However, don’t regret if you cannot dedicate an entire room to this purpose. Even a closet can be an excellent addition.
In the kitchen, you work with hundreds of small and large items, including cooking tools, appliances, food materials, and so on. Each of them consumes space. That’s why it doesn’t matter whether you manage to create a small or larger storage area for them. As long as you optimize every single inch, there is nothing to despair. And if you get the right talent, you can ensure the best look for it too.
