There’s something undeniably captivating about a well-designed pantry. This recent project highlights everything a walk-in pantry should be—a perfect balance of beauty, functionality, and thoughtful design.
The walk-in pantry has become one of the most desired features in the modern kitchen. “As traditional style kitchens, home entertaining, and baking enjoy a revival, pantries are one of the most requested features in the kitchen,” says Tom Howley, Creative Design Director. The desire for organisation drives this resurgence: a dedicated space to store essentials, reduce countertop clutter, and bring a sense of refined simplicity to the kitchen.
Historically, households relied on pantries to store dried goods, jars of preserves, cookware, and more. While the core purpose remains the same, today’s walk-in pantries are elevated with bespoke details, providing not only practical storage and workspace but also an opportunity to bring a luxurious, curated feel to your kitchen.
The layout of this bespoke neutral walk-in pantry was carefully planned to maximise functionality in a modest space. Opting for a slim design, this pantry makes intelligent use of vertical storage with open shelves mounted on brackets. The shelving follows an L-shape, creating ample storage while leaving room to manoeuvre.
Next to the door, a wall of illuminated open shelving with Tudor Oak panelled backboards offers both practical storage and visual appeal. This clever arrangement allows for quick access to essentials, which is particularly useful during busy meal prep.
Tom Howley advises, “The first port of call when planning a walk-in pantry is to consider how much space can be allocated to it. This will determine the overall layout of the design—straight line, L-shape, or U-shape. If you’re tight for room, opt for pocket or sliding doors to maximise floor space and create easy access to essential zones.”
Clever storage is what sets this walk-in pantry apart. A combination of open and closed storage keeps the area organised and clutter-free while maintaining aesthetic appeal. Open shelving provides an at-a-glance storage system, perfect for displaying jars, tableware, and frequently used items.
Deep drawers with soft-close technology ensure easy access to pantry staples. These drawers prevent overcrowding and make organisation effortless, ensuring that bulkier food items remain visible and accessible.
For fresh produce like onions, potatoes, and bread, basket storage was incorporated, promoting airflow and adding a rustic charm. Installing shelf-supporting rails beneath the floating shelves offers an ingenious solution to hang utensils for quick and easy access—streamlining kitchen workflows.
The materials and finishes in this Butler walk-in pantry were thoughtfully selected to enhance its beauty and create a sense of space. Painted in Anise, a soothing neutral, the pantry radiates calm. The burnished brass Antrim handles offer a bold contrast, while the Tudor Oak timber accents bring inviting warmth.
Unique Calacatta Gold worktops by Compac complete the design, offering a durable work surface that balances the pantry’s functional and aesthetic elements effortlessly. Together, these finishes create a cohesive space where every detail feels intentional and elevated.
Achieving an organised pantry was paramount for this project, and it was styled with both practicality and visual appeal in mind. Dried goods were decanted into decorative jars with natural wood or glass lids, complemented by hand-written labels. This ensures easy identification and brings a personal, artisanal touch.
The organisational approach adheres to smart principles:
Unexpected touches like brass utensils and wicker storage baskets elevate the pantry’s look, creating a cohesive connection between its practical storage elements and design. Together, these details bring warmth and personality to the space.
If this project inspires you and you want to explore adding your own walk-in pantry, our design team is here to help. Visit one of our showrooms to discuss your space, style, and needs, and create a pantry that is as functional as it is beautiful.