Build Additional Pantry Space with Stand Alone Cabinet Plans

Expanding our pantry storage can be a game-changer when it comes to keeping our kitchens organized. A stand alone pantry cabinet offers the perfect solution for adding functional space that can be customized to our specific storage needs.

We'll share tips for maximizing your available space, budgeting smartly, and even building your own custom pantry unit step-by-step.

Benefits of Stand Alone Pantry Cabinets

Freeing up shelf space in your kitchen cabinets and gaining extra storage is a top reason to add a standalone pantry. Other advantages include:

• Customization - Size and layout can be tailored to fit your space.
• Specialty storage - Optimize for food, appliances, cookware, and more.
• Convenience - Keep frequently used items readily accessible.
• Flexible placement - Install in the kitchen, garage, basement, and more.
• Affordability - DIY builds can save thousands over custom cabinetry.

For small kitchens, converting unused spaces with a standalone pantry is an accessible and budget-friendly storage upgrade.

Assessing Your Needs and Available Space

Before deciding on a standalone pantry, assess your current storage situation. Take an inventory of kitchen items needing more organized storage. This will help determine what size and style options make sense.

Next, examine your floor plan to find the best spot to add a storage unit that is easily accessible. Standalone pantries are commonly installed in corners, along walls, in closets, or even basement rooms adjacent to the kitchen.

Planning Interiors and Dimensions

With your storage needs in mind, sketch ideas for organizing your pantry's interior. Incorporate features like:

• Shelving - For food, small appliances, cookware
• Cabinets or drawers - For bulk items or lesser-used tools
• Hanging racks - For spices, kitchen tools
• Specialty items like pull out baskets, corner lazy susans, and slide out trays

Standard interior cabinet dimensions help guide your plan. Allow for plenty depth - we recommend 20-24 inches. Width can range from 18 inches for a narrow pantry up to several feet for an extended unit.

Height depends on factors like ceiling space and matching existing kitchen cabinetry. Consider installing on 6-12 inch legs for easy cleaning underneath.

Structural and Design Considerations

For a functional and durable standalone pantry, the underlying cabinetry construction is vital. Evaluate the existing kitchen cabinets to determine a compatible aesthetic.

Cabinet Box Construction

While you can opt for a simple open-faced shelving unit, most standalone pantries include cabinet faces, doors and/or drawers for concealed storage. This requires structural framing including:

• Face frame - Framed structure around front cabinet edges
• Crossbeams - Back frame bracing
• Base - Floor runners or leg posts for stability
• Anchoring hardware - Securing cabinet to floor and/or wall studs

Ventilation and Access Considerations

Due to standalone pantries being enclosed units, ventilation and access are additional factors:

• Allow airflow space at cabinet back or include ventilation slats
• Use durable, smooth-sliding drawer glides
• Install doors that fully open without obstruction
• Include task lighting, like LED strips to illuminate interiors

Matching Your Kitchen Design

To blend your new pantry seamlessly:

• Coordinate cabinet door style - slab, shaker, etc.
• Match cabinet hardware like hinges and handles
• Consistent finishes between units look integrated
• Continue kitchen design details like crown molding

DIY Standalone Pantry Cabinet Plans

Rather than investing thousands in custom cabinetry, many handy homeowners opt to build their own standalone pantry . If you have beginner carpentry skills and basic tools, this manageable weekend project can create serious storage solutions on a budget.

Sourcing Plans

The easiest route is to source an existing building plan designed specifically for standalone pantries. Either purchase pre-made plans, or find free designs online to use. Make sure any downloaded free plans clearly list the following:

• Detailed tools/materials list
• Precut lumber dimensions
• Step-by-step assembly instructions
• Helpful images and illustrations

Working from Plans

With confident understanding of construction steps and parts needed, move forward purchasing supplies. Helpful tips when starting your build:

• Read plans fully before purchasing materials
• Buy lumber and sheet goods in exact plan dimensions
• Use plan's cut list rather than figuring from scratch
• Have store cut sheet goods for easy transport

Then begin construction! Refer back to plans frequently and don't skip crucial framing for cabinet integrity.

Designing Your Own Plans

If you want fully customizable options, design your own standalone pantry plans. Sketch your ideas, allowing for any structural limitations.

Next, use cabinet design software to input dimensions and create detailed plans for construction. Pro-level software allows building 3D models to reference.

For new designers, utilize free resources like online cabinet calculators to determine parts and cut lists. While more complex, drawing original plans grants unlimited customization ability.

Purchasing Pre-Built Pantry Cabinets

Alternatively, ordering a pre-fabricated pantry cabinet allows enjoying the finished product without the work. As with all purchasing decisions, do your research:

• Vet brands for quality reputation
• Compare costs and value per square foot
• Browse sizing options and interior add-ons
• Factor in hiring professional installation help

Customization Available

Just because its pre-built doesn't mean you can't customize. Many cabinet manufacturers offer:

• Modification of height, width, and depth
• Door style and finish selection
• Add-on accessories like drawers, trays, and bins
• Countertop and molding upgrades

Discuss special order options upfront to saveLater adding modular accessories like extra shelving and racks can expand storage functionality down the road.

Streamlined Installation Process

Ordering an off-the-shelf pantry cabinet means simpler installation after delivery. Depending on size, sliding units into position and leveling is manageable for one person. Anchor to studs for stability; more extensive assembly may require professional assistance.

Creative Storage Solutions

Filling your extra pantry space is the best part! Think through smart solutions to sort and arrange items for efficiency.

Specialty Organizers

Designate zones for different supplies with specialty organizers like:

• Slide out trays - For spices, oils and small jars
• Spinning corner carousels - Easy access for awkward corners
• Vertical divider racks - Neat separation for baking pans
• Wine bottle holders - Safely store and display collections

Labels and Inventorying

Keep your new pantry's contents identifiable at a glance with labels. Numbered labeling corresponding to inventory lists prevents losing track of items shoved at the back.

Integrating into Your Kitchen

A standalone pantry expands your overall kitchen storage footprint. Rethink space usage to continuum your cooking zones.

Revamped Kitchen Storage Setup

With a dedicated pantry absorbing the bulk goods and equipment, rearrange your main kitchen cabinets and drawers. Designate zones like:

• Appliances and electronics
• Meal prep tools
• Serving ware
• Daily use dinnerware

Expanding Existing Cabinets

For a seamless custom built-in look, flank additional matching cabinetry along side your standalone pantry. Building out full walls of storage helps large kitchens maximize every inch.

Repurposing Wasted Spaces

Take advantage of the narrow gaps beside refrigerators or between fixtures. Just 12-24 inches of unused space can accommodate pull out pantries.

Budgeting Considerations

There's no denying standalone pantry cabinets require an upfront investment. But in the long run, the added storage capacity can save you time and money.

Cost Comparison

On the lower budget end, sourcing DIY plans and building your own freestanding pantry costs a fraction compared to custom cabinetry. Expect to spend:

• DIY pantry - $300-$1000+ depending on size and materials
• Custom pantry - $2000+ for installed cabinets

Cost Factors

With pre-built and custom cabinets, cost is calculated per square foot based on:

• Interior fittings - shelving packages, drawers
• Door styles and exterior finish options
• Delivery fees
• Installation labor

Factor this against the long term value extra storage provides - potentially saving thousands over a kitchen remodel down the road.

Maintaining Your Standalone Pantry

A well constructed standalone pantry cabinet should provide decades of reliable use. Follow manufacturer care guidelines for finishes and surfaces. Additionally:

• Use organizers and don't overload shelves to prevent sagging
• Check door hinges and slides for smooth operation
• Spot clean interiors regularly
• Freshen with baking soda or charcoal occasionally

Periodically inspect for any cracks, leaks, warped boards or hardware issues. Addressing minor repairs quickly preserves structural integrity.

Inspiring Design Ideas

Standalone pantries present opportunities to incorporate fun custom details!

Stylish Touches

Personalize with:

• Glass front cabinet doors or inserts
• Custom color choices
• Unique hardware like vintage glass knobs
• Handpainted signs or family photos

Functional Flourishes

Elevate usefulness with:

• Cubbies for cookbooks
• Message boards for recipes and lists
• charging station for small appliances
• Recessed lighting on dimmers

Browse Pinterest boards and Houzz photos for stand alone pantry ideas from innovative home chefs short on traditional kitchen space!

Revamping your kitchen storage with the addition of a standalone pantry cabinet opens up a world of organization possibilities! Maximizing unused spaces to build custom food pantries enhances efficiency right where you meal prep.

Now that you know what to consider when installing standalone pantries, the project possibilities are endless. Just think through your family's needs, measure your available space, and review cabinet construction basics.

You can make a personalized pantry unit with some planning and commitment. Or, opt to order customized dimensions pre-built so you can start organizing immediately!