To begin with, consider the size of the space. A minimum aisle width of 34″ is ideal. This is because it can be uncomfortable to unload groceries in a narrow aisle. You should also leave 15″ of space for a countertop. Another important consideration is lighting. Although it doesn’t need to be expensive, good lighting will help you locate things easier.
Less is more when it comes to shelf depth
While deep pantry shelves might be appealing, they’re often not practical. They’re difficult to access and create clutter. Instead of having deep shelves, opt for two or three rows of shallow shelves. If you must use deep shelves, consider using door trim instead of cabinetry. One row of deep shelves can hold about one row of cans, while two rows could house many cans.
The ideal depth for pantry shelves is 16 to 20 inches. The reason is that you can fit in more items if the shelves are narrow. Long shelves, however, are more likely to need frequent restacking. In addition, they can cause items to be overlooked. Lastly, a shallow shelf is ideal for storing pet food.
Grouping specific categories together
When designing a pantry, a good rule of thumb is to group similar items together. For example, separate baking items, spices, and breakfast foods. Also, separate canned fruit and vegetables and soups from the rest of the pantry. You’ll be able to easily identify which items are double-ups and which are low in stock.
Once the items are in their categorized containers, group them together on the pantry floor, counters, or tables. This will make them easier to reach. Place bulky items higher up on the floor, while light-weight cans and jars should be on the lowest level. The highest-level shelves should be reserved for frequently used items.
Using a general zone or grouping system for pantry items is also a good idea. For instance, canned goods can go in one category, while baking ingredients go in another. The best way to group items is to use containers and large bins. Jars with lids are especially useful for corralling.
Avoiding door jams
Keeping in mind the size and placement of doors is essential when designing a pantry. Ideally, the doors should open outward and not inward. However, some homeowners opt to eliminate the door altogether. Another important consideration when designing a pantry is lighting. You may want to use pendant or puck lights to give the space a modern feel.
When it comes to doors, you can choose from an array of designs and styles. For instance, you can choose between sliding doors that operate on rollers or tracks, pocket doors that slide, and pivot hinges. In addition, you can choose a door design that matches the overall style and color of the room.
Adding a chalkboard to the front of your pantry
Adding a chalkboard to the front edge of your pantry cabinet is a great way to add functionality to your pantry. You can use a chalkboard to write down important reminders or grocery lists. You can even write your weekly menu on it! Adding a chalkboard can also be a great way to add personality to your pantry design.
Chalkboard panels can be painted onto the front of your pantry door for a fun and useful decoration. If you don’t want to put up a chalkboard, you can also add a metal panel for displaying your favorite artwork or tacking messages. Metal pantry doors can be a beautiful work of art. You can even have metalsmiths make a custom door for your pantry if you want a more unique style.
Adding a baker’s rack
Adding a baker’s rack can improve the design of your pantry space. Besides storing items, these racks can also serve as decorative accents. They are made of metal and can give your kitchen a country or industrial look. In addition, they are lightweight, making them convenient for storage and display.
Baker’s racks were traditionally used for baking purposes, as they provided extra storage space and a counter for rolling dough. These days, they are more decorative, and are designed with plenty of compartments to store everything from utensils to cookware. Some models even come with wheels, making them easy to move around the space.
While baker’s racks can be found in many colors, black is a classic option and can blend well with modern decor. For a rustic look, you can also opt for a stainless steel baker’s rack. Metal baker’s racks are versatile and can be used outside as well. Wrought iron baker’s racks are also popular, and they can work well in your kitchen or even in the living room.
