At HKS, we appreciate that the kitchen is not only a place where culinary creations come to life. It is the hive of your home where life happens, and memories unfold. It can therefore be overwhelming to choose a style that reflects your personality and meets your functional needs. At HKS Interiors with a host of options to choose from, finding the one that resonates with you best can be an exciting journey.
Pantries are now back in style, and if you are wondering exactly what they do and how they can be utilised in your kitchen, in this blog, we’ll explore the concept of a pantry, delve into the various types available, and guide you through creating a specialised breakfast pantry to start your mornings smoothly.
What is a Pantry?
A well-organised pantry can transform your kitchen into an organised haven, making meal preparation a breeze and keeping your culinary essentials at your fingertips. They are a dedicated space in or near the kitchen that stores food, dishes, linens, and other essentials. The primary purpose of a pantry is to keep non-perishable food items and other kitchen essentials organised and out of sight, helping to declutter the main kitchen area. They also provide a designated area to keep items tucked away yet accessible when needed.
Types of Pantries
Depending on the size of your kitchen and your family’s needs, there are several types of pantries you can consider for your design:
Walk-in Pantries: A favourite for large kitchens, walk-in pantries offer ample space, often with multiple shelves on every wall. They provide excellent storage for bulk groceries, appliances not used daily, and even kitchenware for special occasions.
Cabinet Pantries: Integrated into the kitchen’s cabinetry, these are perfect for smaller spaces. Cabinet pantries can be as simple as a single cupboard with well-organised shelves or a more elaborate set-up with pull-out drawers and organisers.
Pull-out Pantries: These pantries are excellent space savers. Installed as part of the cabinetry, they pull out to reveal racks or shelves that are easily accessible from both sides. This design maximises the use of narrow spaces in the kitchen.
Freestanding Pantries: A versatile option for those who need flexibility. Freestanding units can be moved and come in various styles and sizes, making them suitable for any kitchen layout.
How to Create a Breakfast Pantry
If you have a busy household, a pantry is a great way to make your morning routines quicker and more efficient. A dedicated breakfast pantry can streamline your morning routine by putting all your morning necessities in one place.
Ideally, your breakfast pantry should be located where you prepare breakfast. If you have a large area, consider using a section of your main pantry as the breakfast zone. For smaller spaces, a cabinet pantry near the breakfast table or cooking area works well. Fill your breakfast pantry with items you use every morning such as coffee, tea, cereals, bread, spreads, and snacks. Consider what you reach for most and keep these items at eye level. You can then use baskets or bins for grouping similar items, like baking ingredients or different types of bread. Use clear, airtight containers for storing bulk items such as cereal or oats, keeping them fresh and making it easy to see when you’re running low. If you have the space, install a small worktop in the pantry area with a coffee maker, toaster, or other appliances you frequently use in the morning. This creates a dedicated space for preparing breakfast quickly and efficiently without cluttering the main kitchen area, perfect for busy families.
An efficiently organised pantry enhances the functionality of your kitchen and transforms how you use your cooking and dining spaces. By choosing the right type of pantry for your home and setting up an area for your morning routine, you can ensure that starting your day is as smooth and stress-free as possible. Whether building a new home or remodelling your kitchen, consider how a thoughtfully designed pantry can improve your daily life.
No matter where you are in your journey, our designers are here to guide you on how to get started. They can provide inspiration and direction as you plan your upcoming project. You can call us on 01435 866166 or email sales@hks-uk.com.