COVID-Inspired Wellness Design Trends Take Over Kitchen Remodels

Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, more homeowners switched to bulk shopping to reduce trips to the grocery store, a trend which highlighted the need for larger, more functional kitchen spaces. According to Forbes, the “working pantry” is an up and coming design preference in homes with space for more expansive kitchen remodels. 

Walk-in spaces or cabinetry-based configurations offer additional storage and room for food preparation with sophisticated features such as snack stations, baking centers, wine storage, and coffee prep. Walk-in pantries are taking on the look and efficiency of serving stations and are conveniently sited in the perimeter of the kitchen just feet away from the primary appliances and work zones.

Health-focused private chef James Barry, CEO of seasonings brand Pluck, also prioritizes quick, easy access in his pantry space.  “I want everything to be visible. So pantry door shelves are a plus. The deeper the shelf, the harder it is to see everything,” he observes. “If the shelf is wide and deep, a rack that elevates or tiers the pantry items is great.”

The chef keeps his spices and cooking tools close to the work zones where he’s using them, he says, and has his pantry hold gear he uses less. “Small appliance storage is ideal, even larger appliances that are infrequently used. I'm on the fence about built-in appliances in the pantry.” He notes that they’re harder to clean in tighter quarters. “When I look at a kitchen space, I don't just look at aesthetics, but practicalities.” 

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