Pantry Makeover: Transforming Under-the-Stairs Storage into a Stylish/Organized Pantry

Our floor plan didn’t originally include a pantry, but since we opted out of having a basement, we decided to transform the space under the stairs into our very own pantry! This area turned out to be surprisingly spacious, offering us ample room for all our food and snacks. Now that we’ve created this organized space, it’s time to stock up even more! I’m excited to share the journey of our pantry makeover with you!

The Beginning

Let me start by saying, our contractor was not the easiest to work with. He consistently up-charged items, and we were aware of this because we had researched prices ourselves before deciding to work with him. With this in mind, we decided to take on the pantry project ourselves. My husband took charge and did an outstanding job with the pantry design and execution.

The Materials

For the pantry makeover, we chose laminate pieces and L-brackets from Lowe’s. My husband measured, cut, and installed them with my assistance—I held things in place and provided input on placement! To save money, we opted for laminate, but this presented a challenge with the rough, mismatched edges. I had the idea to use spackle on the edges, sand them down, and paint them to match the shelving. This solution worked perfectly, and you can’t even tell the difference.

Pantry Organization

Even though we didn't have it in our budget for a large, separate room pantry, this space under the stairs is still my pantry, and I’m determined to make it functional and beautiful. Someone once told me, “it’s a closet,” but to me, it’s a special room that deserves attention and care. It makes me happy to treat it with the same importance as any other room in the house. Here's your sign: if it makes you happy, go for it!

To organize our pantry effectively, I purchased several items from Amazon, including clear storage bins, wire shelf organizers, and baskets (leave a comment below if you would like any links). These tools have been crucial in maintaining a neat and accessible pantry.

Pantry Decor

For decor, I added a few practical and charming touches. An antique cookie jar with a floral print now holds my vintage rolling pins. It’s both decorative and functional until I find a better storage solution.

I also moved my adorable antique dog planter from the piano to the pantry. It looks perfect on the shelf and adds a personal touch. Additionally, I’ve ordered a vintage grocery sign from Etsy. The pinkish color of the sign will complement the pantry decor beautifully.

To make a bold statement, I’m going to wallpaper the ceiling of the pantry. I have leftover green floral wallpaper from Lilyoake that I used in our dining room. I plan to use this for the ceiling, creating a cohesive look with the rest of the house.

In Conclusion

As we put the finishing touches on this pantry makeover, I will post the finish product here. I’m incredibly proud of what my husband has accomplished through this DIY project. He had never tackled a project like this before, but he’s done an amazing job, and I’m looking forward to more DIY projects with him in the future. Remember, if others don’t see the significance in what makes you happy, don’t let it get to you. Everyone has different tastes and priorities. So, here’s to enjoying our newly transformed pantry and making the most of every space in our home!

Until Next Time!

Brittany