The Perfect Pantry for Snug Spaces

Kasey
by Kasey
Common kitchen cabinets can only hold so much space, and it can be all too easy to over-stock your shelves with those ambitious trips to the grocery store. So, when it comes to home kitchen customization, I’m all about maximizing the storage potential of those smaller spaces that often go by unnoticed.

One frequent example of these often-underused areas are the narrow absent spaces that are created by the distance between a refrigerator and whatever it rests beside—whether it be a counter-top, dishwasher, cabinet box, an ending wall, etc.
These leftover areas are usually only some inches wide, and don’t really allow much room for modification.


That’s where a rolling pantry comes in.
Introducing the Rolling Pantry



The perfect cabinet complement, a rolling pantry is a great way to organically implement extra storage right into your home’s tighter spaces; and don’t be fooled, they can be functionally paired with much more than just refrigerators.


Among a variety of creative placements, I’ve even seen rolling pantries effectively positioned in laundry rooms between the washing machine and dryer (conveniently stocked with soaps and detergents) to improve the room’s organization and make the chore of washing clothes all the easier. So really, the possibilities can stretch as far as your imagination.
Not to mention, rolling pantries can be found (or crafted at home) to match the color and decorative theme of most existing cabinetry—allowing them to effortlessly adapt into your home’s present aesthetic.


The only question left, then, is how can you best get your hands on one?


Purchasing a Rolling Pantry


If you aren’t the handy type, never fear! A purchased pantry can work just as well as a home-built one.


Rolling pantries of every size can be located for order online, with prices ranging as low as $25, to some that go well over $100.


The differences are usually dictated by size, brand recognition, and quality of craft, though you can often find great buys at a low price if you are willing to look hard enough (the model pictured above only set me back by about $30) so take the time to shop around and find what would be your best fit.


Building a DIY Rolling Pantry


Building a rolling pantry, on the other hand, requires a bit of carpentry skill and some extra effort, but this method also comes with the benefit of having full control over the design and style of your own personalized pantry.


Everything you need to craft one should be find-able at any general hardware store, but the primary materials you will want to pick up are:
Wood Boards – Multiple pieces cut and sized to act as the different parts of the frame and shelves for your pantry.  
Casters – At least four caster wheels that are strong enough to support the hefty weight of a filled pantry, which will allow you to roll the unit in and out of place.
Dowels – For each exposed shelf, you will need a dowel to act as a railing and hold your stored items safely in place while the pantry rolls about. Alternatively, more wood can be used to fashion the railings.
Knob or Handle – A knob, or a handle, can be optionally attached to the face of your rolling pantry in order to make it easier for you to pull and roll it from its stored position.


And Keep in Mind:


The specifications of these listed supplies will vary depending on the needs of your own pantry; such as the necessary strength of the casters to support the weight of what your pantry will hold, the exact measurements of wood cuts needed for the pantry to comfortably fill its intended space, and the breed of wood that you choose to use.


If at all unsure, its best to research what kinds of materials will best serve your needs before procuring any supplies.


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