10 Unexpected Storage Features to Include in Your Custom Pantry Design
- Josh Klein
- Oct 27
- 5 min read
You know that feeling when you walk into your pantry and can’t find anything—even though you just went grocery shopping? You’re standing there, holding a bag of rice, thinking, “Did I seriously just buy a third jar of pasta sauce?”
Yes. We’ve all been there.
And that’s the thing about pantry chaos—it sneaks up on you. One minute it’s neat and labeled, and the next, it’s a game of edible Jenga every time you reach for a snack. But here’s the good news: It doesn’t have to be this way.
At Closet & Cabinet Experts, we believe a custom pantry design is about more than just how many shelves go on the wall. It’s about creating a space that works for the way you live, cook, and snack. The right features can turn your pantry from “just storage” into the most functional (and dare we say, satisfying) room in your home.
Let’s dig into 10 of our favorite — and often unexpected — pantry storage ideas that make all the difference.
1. Pull-Out Baskets That Keep Chaos in Check
It’s dinnertime, and you’re grabbing onions or potatoes. And instead of rummaging through a dark corner, you glide out a neat basket and voila—everything you need, right there.
Pull-out baskets are one of those custom pantry storage solutions that seem small but completely change the way you use your space. They keep produce fresh, prevent things from getting lost in the back, and make cleanup a breeze, too.
Pro tip from our Savannah designers: Woven metal or wire baskets let your veggies breathe, so they last longer.
2. Tiered Shelving That Puts Everything in Sight
Cans, jars, and bottles love to play hide-and-seek. But with tiered shelving? You’ll never have to dig again!
Think of it like stadium seating for your pantry. Each row steps up just enough so you can actually see what’s there. Surprisingly simple feature, yes, but it’s one of those innovative pantry features that makes you wonder how you ever lived without it.
And yes—your soups, sauces, and spices will thank you!
3. A Built-In Wine Rack (Because You Deserve It)
Whether you’re a “Friday night glass” kind of person or love hosting friends, a built-in wine rack is a smart and stylish touch for your modern pantry design ideas.
Keeps bottles safely stored at the right angle and turns a functional pantry into something that feels a little luxurious. Also, in Savannah homes, we’re seeing more clients integrate small beverage stations—wine rack, mini fridge, and glass storage—all tucked right inside their custom pantry.
Because why shouldn’t the good stuff have a good home?
4. Slide-Out Shelves for Heavy Items
If you’ve ever tried lifting your slow cooker off a high shelf, you know it’s not for the faint of heart. Slide-out shelves are a game changer for all your heavier appliances or bulk pantry goods.
They bring everything to you, so you’re not bending, reaching, or risking a shoulder injury every time you make chili. Plus, they make deep pantry cabinets feel twice as big.
Many homeowners come in thinking they need more space—but what they really need is smarter space. Slide-outs make it happen.
5. A Built-In Charging Drawer (Yes, Really)
Okay, this one surprises people. But trust us—it’s genius!
Add a hidden charging drawer with outlets for tablets, phones, or rechargeable kitchen gadgets. No more cords tangling on the counter. No more hunting for that one free plug.
A small upgrade in your custom pantry design, but it actually keeps your counters clean and your gadgets ready to go. Especially handy if your pantry doubles as a “command center” for your family schedules or grocery lists.
6. Pull-Down Racks for Hard-to-Reach Storage
Got tall cabinets? Don’t waste that space!
Pull-down racks let you access high shelves without a step stool. They’re also perfect for storing rarely used baking supplies, holiday ingredients, or overflow snacks. And they even blend seamlessly into your pantry design.
No bulky mechanisms, just smooth, clever engineering.
One of those smart pantry organization upgrades that feels subtle but makes your everyday life way easier.
7. A Lazy Susan for Corners That Actually Work
You know that deep, awkward corner in your pantry where items go to disappear forever? The Lazy Susan solves it in one satisfying spin.
Today’s versions aren’t the squeaky, wobbly ones from the past—they’re now sleek, sturdy, and designed to fit beautifully into custom pantry storage solutions. You can organize baking goods, condiments, even snacks for the kids.
One of our most-requested features in Low Country homes because it’s practical and just plain fun to use.
8. Door-Mounted Storage (Because Every Inch Counts)
The back of your pantry door is prime real estate. Use it!
From your spice racks to shallow bins for snacks or cleaning supplies, door-mounted storage is an easy way to gain extra space without expanding your footprint.
Also, we often design adjustable door systems—so you can change up what you store seasonally. Baking in the fall? Make room for spices. Summer entertaining? Hello, napkins and paper plates!
9. Slide-Out Can Organizers That Save Your Sanity
Nobody likes the can shuffle. You stack them neatly one day, and two weeks later, it looks like a grocery aisle after a hurricane.
Well, slide-out can organizers solve that. They make it easy to rotate stock (so nothing expires), and you can instantly see how much you’ve got.
Also one of our favorite pantry storage ideas for busy families because it saves time and frustration. And in Savannah, where hurricane prep means having extra canned goods on hand, this feature is extra useful.
10. Hidden Zones That Make Your Pantry Feel Custom
This is where a truly custom pantry design shines—personalized zones for the way you live.
We’ve built hidden snack drawers for kids (so they stop climbing shelves), tall pull-outs for pet food, and even sections for small appliances that plug in right where they live.
Here’s what’s trending in Savannah homes right now:
A “breakfast zone” with cereal, coffee, and a toaster shelf.
A “grab-and-go” section near the door for lunchboxes and protein bars.
A pull-out bin system for recycling and compost.
These thoughtful touches make your pantry flow naturally with your daily routine. And no one-size-fits-all here—just smart, local design.
Why Smart Storage Makes All the Difference
The right pantry isn’t about being fancy. It’s about being functional.
When everything has a place, your mornings run smoother. You waste less food. You stress less. And you actually enjoy being in your kitchen again!
That’s what we love most about designing custom pantry storage solutions—watching that sense of calm click into place for our clients.
And because we’re a locally owned company—not a franchise—you’re not getting a cookie-cutter design. You’re getting advice from people who’ve designed thousands of pantries right here in Coastal Georgia and Low Country South Carolina.
We know the humidity. The family habits. The “I need a spot for my sweet tea pitcher” kind of details that make a space truly yours.
The Most Popular Custom Pantry Design Features in Savannah
Savannah homeowners love a blend of beauty and practicality. The top requests we see?
Pull-out baskets and can organizers – because visibility = less waste.
Built-in wine racks – coastal living deserves good storage for good bottles.
Hidden appliance shelves – no more cluttered counters.
Adjustable shelving systems – life changes, and your pantry should adapt with it.
Our designers in the Savannah showroom often say it best: “We design pantries for real life—messy, busy, beautiful life.”
Ready to Love Your Space Again?
You don’t need to figure it all out alone.
No pressure. Just honest advice, smart ideas, and a design you’ll love for years.
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