Kitchen larder or pantry – which is the right choice for you?

A pantry or larder is a smart solution to keeping your kitchen organised and can really elevate the overall aesthetic – they’re not just about functionality as the design can play a huge part too. From walk-in rooms to standalone cabinets, a pantry or larder is key to clutter-free living and the secret behind any bustling kitchen.

If you’re considering installing a pantry or larder, we’ve pulled together a handy guide outlining the main differences between the two, key features and the biggest benefits.

What exactly is a larder?

Kitchen larders are typically integrated cupboards or freestanding cabinets that are built into the kitchen design, providing quick and easy access to the items you store inside. Concealing food and drink goods behind the doors, they’re a genius way to maintain a clean and tidy appearance. Plus, the good news is that a larder can be designed and built around your existing kitchen space.

It’s a good idea to make sure the design of your larder works for you. Don’t think of a larder as a standard cupboard with a couple of shelves. Why not incorporate drawers, wine racks and inside cupboard door shelves to really stretch the space you have?

What exactly is a pantry?

A pantry is traditionally a small, separate room that leads off from your kitchen as an extension. These clever walk-in areas can extend worktop space and can make use of the floor-to-ceiling height to maximise storage potential.

By having open shelves in the pantry, you can easily access jars and tins, leaving space on the worktops for larger appliances. We recommend including pretty storage jars, shelf lighting and possibly some artwork on the walls – this is particularly important if the pantry doors are glazed. By incorporating these, you can ensure that your pantry space is both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

Focus on temperature

Larders tend to be cooler and drier spaces so may be a better option if you want storage for different types of food and perishables. As small rooms or cupboards, the temperature of your pantry may be harder to regulate so it’s important to consider that in your design choice. 

Saying that, you can prevent a pantry from getting too warm by avoiding under-floor heating. If you’re opting for under-floor heating in your kitchen, it’s important to ensure that this doesn’t run into your pantry to keep the space as cool as you possibly can.

Size matters

If you have a smaller kitchen space, larder cupboards are the best option. It’s important to maximise every space you have in the kitchen. Therefore, be sure to make use of cupboard doors on the inside to make room for spice jars for example. This is a great solution if you’re struggling to free up counter-top space.

Pantries are often the best decision if you’ve got the space to allow for one. They typically have more storage space and offer a place to house appliances, cookware and cleaning supplies too. Think about the things you’re always reaching for first and on a regular basis. These are the items you want to keep at eye level and within arms reach. Larger or rarely used items can be tucked away or stored up high.

If you’d like help to upgrade your kitchen, the team at All Done Design can turn your dreams into a reality. Get in touch to find out how we can help.