Does a pantry add value? Yes say the experts but make sure you add these key elements into the mix

If you're keen to make sure your investment into a new kitchen reaps its rewards, you may be researching pantry ideas – after all, it's a popular kitchen trend that shows no signs of abating.

But, does a pantry add value, or is it simply a case of having plenty of kitchen cabinets so you have a bountiful supply of storage options?

Experts say it does add value to most homes – as long as you follow these key rules and you genuinely need one. Otherwise you may be better off spending your budget elsewhere.

Ask yourself how does a pantry add value to your life, not just your wallet

While monetary gain is always worth considering when investing in walk-in pantry ideas or extra kitchen storage space, it's also important to think about how a pantry can add value to your living experience.

"The value a pantry adds to a home depends on the homeowner’s lifestyle and how well the space is designed to meet their needs," says Cassie Jones, brand manager at Masterclass Kitchens. "For those who rely on takeaways or ready meals most nights of the week, a pantry may not be the best investment. Instead, allocating budget elsewhere in the kitchen would be more beneficial," she suggests. "For example an oven that they can turn on via their smartphone on their commute home.

"However, for busy households that manage a large weekly food shop, a well-designed pantry becomes an essential feature, providing much-needed organisation and reducing kitchen clutter," she confirms.

Cassie Jones

Cassie Jones is the brand manager at British kitchen manufacturer Masterclass Kitchens. Crafting beautiful, functional spaces with nearly 50 years of expertise, their range is vast and whether you're seeking a chef’s pantry, cocktail cabinet or a family kitchen they offer tailored, affordable luxury to suit every lifestyle.

How much monetary value does a pantry add?

With kitchen costs taking up a large proportion of any self build or home renovation project, adding pantry costs on top of this could seem a little excessive. So is it worth it, and will a pantry add value to the potential sale price if you choose to sell?

“Adding a pantry definitely adds value to your home," says Richard Davonport, managing director at Davonport, "but also sell-ability as it is a much-desired feature these days.

"Typically, a pantry can add up to 5% value to a property, which can be the same as renovating a bathroom," he says. "But don’t forget, out of the 5% added value, you will have costs associated with that."

Al Bruce, founder of Olive & Barr agrees, telling us, "a well designed pantry can add a huge amount of value and appeal to potential buyers, and is definitely worth considering when designing a kitchen.

"The cost of this is entirely dependent on the property, but you can typically expect it to add 5-10% of the value of kitchen. It’s no secret that a great kitchen can add to the value of a property, and the pantry contribution only adds to that."

Richard Davonport

Richard Davonport is a luxury cabinetmaker and designer, and the founder and Managing Director of kitchen specialists, Davonport. The company designs and makes bespoke kitchens from its workshop in the heart of East Anglia.

Al Bruce

Al Bruce, founder of Olive & Barr, began his career 25 years ago studying to be a cabinet maker at college. His natural skill in the craft of cabinetry and keen business acumen saw him quickly rise up through the ranks of the handmade kitchen industry. With a natural flair for design and a deep passion for the industry, Al finally opened his own Shaker kitchen company in 2018.

The three golden rules to adding value

Of course, adding an extra element to your kitchen will only truly add value if it's done well and appeals not only to you, but also future owners. That said, if you are starting the process from scratch, how can you make sure your pantry design adds the most value?

"If space allows, walk-in pantries (or back kitchens) add the most value," says Al Bruce. "They can be designed as a kitchen feature with glass doors, or hidden to sit flush within the cabinetry and therefore giving a secret door feel. Having a room dedicated to a pantry provides ample storage for busy households and is highly desirable."

"However, if space is limited then a pantry cupboard can be the next best option," says Richard Davonport, "and is definitely a feature that people love."

But, regardless of size, there are also three elements that are imperative when choosing a pantry or larder. How it looks, how well it's made and how much storage it contains.

"A pantry that is both beautiful and practical is essential," says Al Bruce. "Paying attention to the material and finishing touches will undoubtedly elevate the entire look and feel to the space.

"Well-made cabinetry that is designed to stand the test of time is a must, and on a practical level, adding stone or slate shelving to the pantry is a great way to keep groceries and dry goods fresh, while also regulating the surrounding temperature to keep the pantry cool.

"Slate is naturally cooler than quartz or marble," explains Al, "hence why it is the more traditional choice, especially for pantries."

And of course, with the whole purpose of a pantry being to provide extra storage for goods and small appliances, “carefully thought-out storage is a must in any type of pantry, as this is the role it is designed for," confirms Richard Davonport.

"Look to include a mix of intelligent storage solutions, from deep drawers and bespoke racking to open shelving and utensil rails. A good amount of worktop space is also important as you can store or even use small appliances but also unpack shopping directly into your pantry.”

Increasing your storage space with items such as this corner shelf from Dunelm can be a clever way of making the most out of your pantry space. And, to make your pantry practical, choose air tight containers that can be clearly labelled. This pack of 24 PurKeep food storage containers from Amazon is available for under £30.

Dealing with a smaller kitchen floorplan? You may still be able to add value, and even save money with a pantry, says Cassie Jones.

"A corner pantry is a particularly smart solution, making use of awkward spaces while providing ample storage without requiring an extension, as is a fitted pantry cupboard.

"Thoughtful design elements, such as durable cabinetry, integrated lighting, adjustable shelving and custom accessories like spice racks and wine storage, enhance both the practicality and aesthetic appeal and ensure your pantry adds value, regardless of the overall size and shape."

FAQs

How much will a pantry cost?

“Typically, a walk-in bespoke pantry can cost approx. £15,000 to design, build and install, but can go much higher depending on the features you may wish to add," says Richard Davonport.

"For example, if you are adding a sink area and if you are having cabinets made, such as those to match your kitchen," your costs may increase. "The size of your pantry will also make a difference to the cost too."

What can prevent a pantry from adding value?

"The space is typically a compact area, so a well thought out design is imperative," warns Al Bruce. "Without this, a potential buyer may feel the layout and design simply do not work and therefore they need to allocate budget to redesign for a more suitable flow."

Ready to add a pantry into the kitchen mix? Be sure to follow these golden rules of pantry ventilation to make sure your new pantry stays cool and your food stays fresh.