A Pretty Pantry

Your pantry should be more than a storage space—it can be a beautifully curated extension of your kitchen that blends function with design. In our Highland Hacienda project, we created a pantry that feels intentional, elevated, and highly usable. Here’s how you can achieve a similar look in your own home.

1. Start with Warm, Timeless Cabinetry

Choosing the right cabinetry sets the tone for your entire pantry. For Highland Hacienda, we used rich, warm-toned wood with a natural finish that brings depth and texture to the space. This not only gives the pantry a timeless look but also makes it feel connected to the rest of the home’s design.

Tip: Opt for custom or semi-custom cabinetry so you can maximize every inch of your pantry while achieving the exact color and style you want.

2. Incorporate Mixed Storage Solutions

A functional pantry should have a variety of storage types—closed cabinets to hide away less attractive items, drawers for easy access, and open shelving for everyday essentials or display-worthy pieces.

Tip: Use deeper drawers for bulkier items and smaller drawers for things like linens or kitchen tools. Open shelving should house beautiful ceramics, glassware, and cookbooks to make the space feel inviting.

3. Select Durable, Elegant Countertops

Counter space in a pantry is invaluable for unloading groceries, prepping ingredients, or setting up a coffee station. We chose a dark stone countertop that contrasts beautifully with the warm cabinetry and is durable enough for daily use.

Tip: If your pantry doubles as a prep area, choose a low-maintenance material like quartz or honed granite that resists staining and scratches.

4. Style Open Shelves with Intention

Your pantry shelves don’t need to look like a store aisle—they can be styled like a mini display. We balanced practical items (plates, bowls, mugs) with decorative accents like art, pottery, and neutral-toned serving dishes.

Tip: Keep the color palette consistent so it feels cohesive. Mix heights and textures for a layered look that still feels tidy.

5. Add Statement Lighting

Good lighting is both functional and atmospheric. In Highland Hacienda, a sculptural gold fixture adds a touch of drama while casting a warm glow, making the pantry feel like a designed room rather than a utility space.

Tip: If you have high ceilings, choose a chandelier or pendant that brings personality to the space. For smaller pantries, consider under-cabinet lighting for functionality.

6. Blend Appliances Seamlessly

Rather than having appliances stick out, integrate them into your cabinetry. In our design, the built-in coffee maker and ovens are surrounded by matching wood panels, creating a cohesive, custom look.

Tip: If you love to bake or entertain, consider adding a second oven or beverage fridge in the pantry to free up your main kitchen for other tasks.

7. Prioritize Flow & Accessibility

A pantry works best when everything is easy to find and access. Group similar items together, keep everyday essentials at eye level, and reserve higher or lower shelves for items used less frequently.

Tip: If you’re building or renovating, plan the layout so you can move easily between the pantry and kitchen—bonus points if it’s tucked away but still close enough for quick access while cooking.

By combining thoughtful storage solutions, warm finishes, and intentional styling, you can create a pantry that’s as beautiful as it is functional—just like our Highland Hacienda project.