Struggling on where to put a pantry in a small kitchen renovation? Here’s what we recommend:
- Next to the fridge.
- At the end of a cabinet run.
- On an adjacent wall.
- Just outside the kitchen zone.
Consider a Pantry Cabinet Instead of a Full Pantry
A custom pantry cabinet is often the best solution inside a small kitchen.
It uses vertical space from floor to ceiling, which increases storage without increasing the footprint. It also fills narrow gaps where standard base or wall cabinets do not fit well.
Pull-out drawers improve access and visibility. You can see everything at once instead of stacking items behind each other.
Custom pantry cabinets also allow stacked drawers combined with other organizers. This creates storage that supports daily use rather than just holding items.
Small Walk-In Pantry
A small walk-in pantry works when storage is moved out of the main kitchen footprint. This keeps the primary kitchen focused on cooking and prep rather than bulk storage.
In many layouts, the pantry sits just outside the kitchen zone but still close enough to be useful. Think of it as a storage room that supports the kitchen without competing for space.
A walk-in pantry can also be built as a pantry cabinet that reads like part of the cabinetry. From the kitchen side, it looks like tall cabinets. Inside, it functions as a walk-in space for food, small appliances, and overflow items.
This option makes sense when the kitchen itself needs to stay compact and efficient.
4 Ideas Where to Put the Pantry in a Small Kitchen
Fitting a pantry in a small kitchen can be a challenge. If you are thinking of sacrificing this feature in your renovation, think again.
Here are a few ideas to help squeeze a pantry into your small kitchen.
1. Tall Pantry Cabinets Next to the Fridge
This is the most common and practical location. Make use of compact vertical space with stacked pantry pull-outs.
2. At the End of a Cabinet Run
Placing the pantry (or pantry cabinet) on the edge of a bank of cabinets creates a natural stopping point. It avoids breaking up the main work area and keeps tall storage contained to one zone.
3. On an Adjacent Wall
If the main kitchen wall is tight, moving the pantry to a nearby wall can free up space for prep and cooking. This works well in many popular kitchen layouts.
4. Just Outside the Kitchen
In some homes, the pantry sits a few steps away in a hallway or transition space. This keeps the kitchen clear while still maintaining easy access.
