Today’s kitchen pantries have more to do than simply store cereal, pasta and snacks. We want them to house appliances – big and small – and look beautiful at the same time.

Those of us who have the capacity are leaving our open kitchens pristine while building a working kitchen in a hidden, back pantry. Others are opting to show off their pantries, as long as there are drawers and doors to shelter some of the less attractive necessities. Whichever camp you fit into, see how you can upgrade your pantry to match the current trends.

Secondary Kitchens

The kitchen is the heart of the home. It’s where the family gathers daily and where most parties start or end. With our kitchens becoming entertainment spaces, some homeowners have begun reconfiguring these rooms.

The pantry takes on the role of secret prep station so that the open kitchen can stay spotless.

You can – if you have the funds and the space – include all the major appliances in the pantry. Or, if you’re lacking in one or both, build in counter space, a small sink and perhaps a mini fridge for preparing and chilling appetizers and charcuterie boards.

Design your hidden pantry to fulfill your particular requirements. Include shelves for tall items like decanters and drawers for smaller essentials such as extra linens.

Of course, the right storage configuration is essential in a modern-day pantry. Do your gatherings tend toward the formal? Make space for champagne flutes and decorative trays. Are you more casual? Devote a drawer to paper napkins and plasticware.

When you’re ready to take the leap, use our free and low-cost design tools to get started on your working pantry.

Showy Storage

Many of us don’t have the luxury of an entire additional room devoted to food prep and storage. But we still want our kitchens to evoke envy. What to do? Let your pantry be a star!

Instead of covering it with a curtain or behind a door, make it attractive enough that you’ll be proud to show it off. Our MasterSuite collection, available only through authorized U.S. dealers, has a range of finishes and hardware options to complement your existing cabinetry.

Incorporate doors and drawers into your exposed pantry to maximize its efficiency.

There’s no wrong choice when it comes to creating your modern-day pantry. Hidden or open, your kitchen’s storage should simply bring you joy and serve you.