Having a pantry in your kitchen is such a great thing. It’s just nice to have everything in one place. Even though mine is quite small, I appreciate being able to keep all our food in one area and you can bet its nice and tidy. However, its also one place that can get messy and out of hand.

My husband and I converted a small coat closet to create our pantry. I knew there wouldn’t be enough space in the cabinets so it was a given. Although I always keep it organized, about two to three times a year I take everything out, clean it and reorganize. Since the door was always in the way, we took it off and hung a cute curtain that matched the country feel of our space. Much better.

There are plenty of ways to keep your pantry looking neat. Here are some great design ideas I found to help you create a useful space in your home.

If you have to create your own pantry, purchase a small cabinet with shelving, drawers and enough room to house all your perishables. In some cases, you can even make it look like it was always there.

Photo Credit: Better Homes and Gardens

Or you can build a recessed pantry where you have an open wall space.

Photo Credit: Better Homes and Gardens

Using frosted glass to cover the pantry is a modern way to keep it hidden while still being able to see what it’s inside.

Photo Credit: Better Homes and Gardens

Keep it cool with unique style and get creative with the doors.

Photo Credit: Shelterness

I love the idea of a cubby style pantry. You can have so much with materials and labels with this one.

Photo Credit: Better Homes and Gardens

If you have a modern or contemporary kitchen and don’t mind having stuff out in the open, a simple bakers rack or metal shelving would work wonders. Even if have a rustic kitchen this would work. Just use wood or another natural element for more warmth.

Photo Credit: Better Homes and Gardens

Or just leave your walk in pantry all open. Just make sure its neat!

Photo Credit: Quaker Rose

If you’re handy, try repurposing another piece of furniture to use. Items like an armoire would work perfect.

Photo Credit: Better Homes and Gardens