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Stylish and Functional Pantry Design: Simple Ideas That Work
A stylish and functional pantry design can transform the way your kitchen feels and functions. No longer just for storing dry goods, pantries have become considered design features in both modern and traditional kitchens.
Whether hidden behind cabinetry or fully on display as a walk-in space, your pantry can be tailored to fit your lifestyle, bringing calm, clarity and charm to everyday routines.
Begin with Practical Needs for a Stylish and Functional Pantry Design
Every good pantry starts with purpose. Think about what you'll store: dry foods, breakfast items, appliances, or even wine and glassware. Will it be used daily, or occasionally?
Zoning helps here. Group similar items together for easy access and smarter storage.
This kind of personalisation is at the heart of a stylish and functional pantry design, and where bespoke solutions from Harvey Jones make a real difference.
Pantry Style Options to Match Your Kitchen Layout
Your layout should guide the pantry style you choose. There are several options to suit every type of home:
Walk-in pantries are great for larger kitchens, offering extra space and flexibility
Butler's pantries act as a quiet utility zone, ideal for prepping or storing tableware
Tall cupboard pantries save space in smaller homes
Hidden pantries are built seamlessly into cabinetry, offering subtle elegance
Design Tips to Elevate Your Pantry Aesthetic
The details matter. From colour and cabinetry to lighting and texture, your pantry should feel like a natural part of the kitchen.
Use colours that match or contrast with your main units
Mix open shelving with closed cupboards
Consider lighting: LED strips or warm spotlights can enhance visibility and style
Add visual texture with tiling, wallpaper, or painted backboards
Designer Insight: How to Create a Pantry That's Practical and Joyful
We spoke to one of our Kitchen Designers, Charlotte, who shared their top three features to include in any well-designed pantry:
Open Shelving and Accessible Storage
"I think it's really important in a pantry to make everything as accessible as possible whether that's food, countertop appliances, or crockery. Knowing in advance exactly what you plan to store helps you map out the space efficiently. For example, if you're including a coffee machine, that can inform the depth of the worktop and the design of the units underneath. You can also set the height of shelving based on the size of jars or containers you're using.
High-level shelves are a great way to maximise vertical space for items you don't need every day. If they're shallower than your mid-level shelves, they're easier to see and reach a simple detail that makes a big difference."
Lighting and Sockets
"I love using a pendant light inside a walk-in pantry - it adds a lovely touch of character. Rebated warm white lighting under open shelves or even posable wall lights can help you see everything clearly.
Lighting can turn a pantry into something that feels quite magical, almost like an Aladdin's cave of treats. And don't forget sockets! If you're using appliances in there, having plug points is essential."
Colour and Design
"A pantry is a great place to have fun with design. Introducing a pop of colour, patterned tiles, or even wallpaper can make it feel like a special space within the kitchen. That hidden moment of surprise when you open the doors can make your pantry not just functional, but joyful too."
This thoughtful mix of function and flair turns a pantry into a genuinely personal and practical addition to the kitchen.
Seamlessly Integrate Your Pantry into the Kitchen Design
Whether your kitchen is modern, traditional or shaker-style, your pantry should feel cohesive. Consistent cabinetry, matching paint finishes and complementary hardware are key.
Some designs call for contrast, while others blend in entirely. Either way, a well-designed pantry should feel considered, not added on.
At Harvey Jones, we help you craft a stylish and functional pantry design that reflects the look and flow of your space.
Personal Touches to Complete Your Pantry Design
Once the layout is set, finishing touches add personality and warmth.
Group pantry items in labelled jars or matching containers
Use baskets, trays and dividers for texture and organisation
Add art, wallpaper or colour inside the pantry to lift the space
Include small accessories like a step stool or speaker for comfort
It's not just about making it look good, these touches also help you keep the space working well over time.
A well-designed pantry brings clarity, ease and charm to your kitchen. By focusing on layout, style, and the way you live, you can create a space that feels both practical and beautifully considered.
Whether you're working with generous square footage or finding smart solutions in a smaller kitchen, our designers are here to help you bring it all together.
Harvey Jones Kitchens
20 - 22 The Exchange
Nottingham
NG1 2DD
T: 0115 924 3600
www.harveyjones.com
