Pantry Design – Elements of a Beautiful Pantry
Elements of a Beautiful Pantry
While cleaning the pantry last week, I thought I would share a bit about a favorite spot and the design elements of my pantry. I know I’ve shared this space before, but it’s just one of those places that makes me smile. Also, Mr. M and I spent hours deciding the design and layout of our kitchen and pantry to maximize the space and cram as much functionality in as we could. We went back and forth on this side of the pantry. He wanted inexpensive shelving, and I wanted more. I won’t get into that. Our budget just wouldn’t allow for my vision. So back to the drawing board where I needed to be savvy design-wise and dollar-wise…so inexpensive shelving won out.
Design Element #1: Open Shelving
I LOVE functioning pantries with open shelving. Open shelving is functional but also so beautiful as it offers a space to display beautiful collections of white dishware, copper, glassware, artwork, and white bowls of fruit. With simple boards painted white and held up by white metal brackets. That’s it!
Design Element #2: Paint Color
A Color that tends to work well in a pantry is soft white. White doesn’t go out of style and it lends to making the space feel larger, airy, bright and clean. While the white in my pantry is somewhat on the bright side, I don’t feel that it leaves my space feeling stark. I feel that white renders my pantry light and spacious and works well with the Agreeable Gray of my kitchen.
Design Element #3: Window
Any window in a pantry is king! I love the extra light that the window provides. Having a window makes this space feel more open and airier and not like a closet. Yes, my pantry is painted ALL white.
Design Element #4: Collections of White Serve Ware
This side of the pantry holds pretty vintage dishes, classic white stacks of plates, a vintage crock, and glassware…the details really make a space. I’ve always loved the mix of old and new, and there are so many creative display ideas for a pantry. Open shelving that is inexpensive can make a space so unique! Of course, I love hunting for pretty things (usually vintage, so much more fun!) and couldn’t wait to fill my inexpensive shelves with all sorts of white dishware and touches of copper – all elements added to a beautifully styled pantry. Our dishes had been in storage for so long – I almost couldn’t remember what I had. Today, these shelves are full of a mix of the old and new. A vintage platter with beautiful blue flower edging – even with staining it makes a pretty backdrop for a new scalloped platter and bowl.
Design Element #5: Flooring
Don’t overlook your pantry floor. This compact room is perfect place to make decorative statement. So, set the scene with sleek hardwoods, or add a pop of personality with playful tiles or pretty durable linoleum.
Design Element #6: Pretty – Vintage Storage Jars
One clever way to dress up your pantry is to let your dry goods double as decor. Take your favorite pastas, sugars, and flours out of their mismatched packaging and store them in glass jars instead. The right jars will keep the ingredients fresh, while adding that punch of pretty showcased on your shelves.
Design Element #7: Baskets
Baskets are effective elements of a beautiful pantry. Not are they great for storage but they look beautiful hanging around. Put those bread baskets to function as pretty wall decor when not in use. They add beauty and natural texture.
What is your favorite pantry detail? What would you include in your dream pantry? Tell me below in the comments! Thanks for stopping by Rustic and Refound.