Create a pretty, practical pantry and work area
Let’s whip up a perfect pantry with these expert tips.
If you’re an avid baker or cook,
working in a motivating atmosphere can be just as important as producing eye-appealing and delicious results. Worry not, no matter the size of your space, creating a pantry that is both pretty and practical is achievable with some planning.
In the dream pantry shown here, courtesy of The Container Store, an Elfa Décor system serves as the foundation. Once that is in place, gather up what you already have; then be on the lookout for pieces that fit your unique style and color scheme. Here are some of our favorite ways to store pantry items with form and function in mind. • Use clear containers for pretty ingredients like colorful sprinkles and cupcake liners. Whimsical cookie cutters or molds also look nice in big glass jars.
• Display collections for a bit of color and pattern. A variety of fun oven mitts looks great hung on twine as a banner, or hang assorted attractive aprons on hooks.
• Use big serving pieces to break up full shelves. Festive cake and cupcake stands and serving platters on open shelves are eye-catching. Colorful mixing bowls and baking dishes can also do the trick.
• Change up shapes when you can. Vintage rolling pins in a giant mixing bowl or shiny utensils and colorful spatulas in large pitchers add vertical interest in a sea of round items. • Favorite cookbooks propped between cookie jars look great in a pantry.
• Of course, don’t forget to put your showpieces on display, perhaps a gorgeous stand mixer in your favorite color.
Show us your “uniquely you” pantry by tagging us on Instagram @cottagesandbungalows or #cottagesandbungalows, and you may just see your photo featured on our Instagram page.