Perfect Pantries: What You Need to Know Before Designing Yours

The pantry is one of the most functional spaces in a home, playing a key role in organization and efficiency. A well-planned pantry enhances convenience, maximizes storage, and contributes to the overall flow of the kitchen. Placement and design can even add to a home’s resale value, while a pantry that’s too small or poorly located may limit functionality and appeal to future custom home buyers.

Brian Baber, Franchise Owner of AR Homes® Panama City (BCB Construction), explains: “Pantries that are too small or in the wrong location can be deal killers when trying to sell your home. Pay special attention here.” Taking the time to plan the size and placement of your pantry can make a big difference in both everyday convenience and your home’s resale value.

1. Location, Location, Location

A pantry should be conveniently positioned near the kitchen to make unloading groceries easier. One common mistake is placing it too far from the garage, requiring you to carry heavy bags across the home. With our custom home designs, you can personalize your pantry layout to include direct access from the garage or a rear entryway, creating a more functional and efficient space. Whether you’re looking for a walk-in pantry, hidden storage, or custom shelving, the right design enhances both convenience and organization.

2. Walk-In vs. Built-In: What’s Best?

From a functionality and resale standpoint, walk-in pantries are often the preferred choice. Even in homes with limited space, a walk-in design can still work. Pantry shelves are typically 12 inches deep, requiring only a 42-inch-wide corridor to allow for shelving and clear space.

If a walk-in pantry isn’t an option, built-in cabinet pantries offer a practical alternative. A growing trend is designing them to blend with the surrounding cabinetry, creating a streamlined, cohesive kitchen design. With custom home design, the pantry can be tailored to maximize both storage and efficiency while complementing the overall aesthetic of the home.

3. How Big Should Your Pantry Be?

When in doubt, opt for a slightly larger pantry than you think you will need. A well-sized pantry offers more than just food storage. It can accommodate small appliances, oversized cookware, and bulk items, helping to keep your kitchen organized and clutter-free.

If space allows, think about adding a grocery landing table, an 18-inch-deep surface where you can temporarily set down bags as you unpack. For a space-saving option, consider a fold-down ledge that can be tucked away when not in use. Both choices enhance convenience and make everyday tasks easier.

4. Features for a Functional Pantry

A great pantry is all about thoughtful details:

• Lighting: Install bright LED lighting or motion-sensor switches for hands-free convenience.
• Adjustable Shelving: Opt for flexible melamine or California Closets-style shelves to adapt to changing storage needs.
• Deep Top Shelves: Perfect for seasonal items or rarely used appliances.
• Canned Goods Storage: Shallow, 4–5-inch-deep shelves make it easy to see and access your cans.
• Cleaning Supply Storage: Include a narrow section for brooms and vacuums to keep your space organized.
• Family Organization Area: A corkboard or whiteboard is a great way to manage grocery lists and schedules.

5. Extra Refrigerator? Yes, Please!

If space and budget allow, adding an extra refrigerator or freezer inside the pantry can be a practical upgrade. Keeping it in the pantry, rather than the garage where it consumes more energy, improves both efficiency and convenience.

Be sure to communicate this choice with your builder early in the process so they can properly wire the space with a dedicated circuit to meet your needs. Thoughtful planning like this ensures your pantry is both functional and future ready.

6. Designing on a Budget? Prioritize These Two Things:

If you need to make budget-conscious decisions, prioritize these two essential elements:

• Plan for a walk-in pantry, even a compact one, as it adds both functionality and value.
• Incorporate storage for cleaning tools like brooms, vacuums, and mops to keep everything organized.

Brian Baber, Franchise Owner of AR Homes® Panama City (BCB Construction), emphasizes the importance of including a pantry in your home design: “The biggest mistake you can make on the pantry is deciding not to include one at all. A walk-in pantry is an enticing feature for prospective buyers.” Skipping the pantry entirely and relying solely on kitchen cabinets can impact not just your daily convenience but also your home’s resale value. Thoughtful planning now can make all the difference later.

Make Your Pantry a Priority

A well-designed pantry should enhance your lifestyle, providing an efficient storage solution that supports cooking, grocery shopping, and daily organization. With careful planning, this essential space can become a functional centerpiece of your home.

When designing your dream home, make the pantry a priority. Investing in thoughtful design now ensures you will enjoy its benefits for years to come. Ready to explore pantry options tailored to your needs? Let’s discuss how to bring your vision to life.

The content and representations on this Builder’s page/microsite are solely that of the Builder and are not a representation by AR Franchising, Inc.