Getting the right pantry dimensions can make all the difference when it comes to building a practical and well-organized storage space. From walk-in pantries to small corner pantries, there are so many ways to organize your space that it is difficult to know where to begin.

Designing a pantry from scratch gives you an ideal opportunity to get the most out of your space. You should seek to create an efficient, user optimal, and space effective area at the same time.

We have a few design tips and tricks to help you do just that.

Pantry dimensions are standard by type, as experts have determined the space needed for efficient and usable panty design.

Average Walk-in Pantry Dimensions

Experts recommend a walk-in pantry to be at least 5 feet by 5 feet, allowing for shelving, optional countertops, and a 36-inch walkway. For multiple users or wheelchair access, aim for a 44–60 inch aisle. This size is ideal for a U-shaped layout, offering storage on three sides with enough space to move comfortably.

Large Walk-in Pantry Dimensions

A large walk-in pantry offers space for extras like a coffee station or food prep area. If your layout and budget allow, aim for dimensions between 6–8 feet wide and 6–8 feet long. This size supports custom cabinetry, shelving, and generous storage options.

Small Walk-in Pantry Dimensions

For a small walk-in pantry, a minimum size of 4 feet by 4 feet can work if space is tight. To maintain a 36-inch walkway, avoid cabinetry on all three sides—instead, add storage along one side and the back wall to maximize function without crowding..

Narrow Walk-in Pantry Dimensions

A narrow rectangular space can still make an efficient pantry. Aim for dimensions around 3–4 feet wide and 5–6 feet long. For best use of space, install shelving along one side and the back wall.

Corner Pantry Dimensions

Corner pantries work well when you have limited floor space in your kitchen.

• Average Corner Pantry Size – A popular corner pantry size measures 48 inches from the back corner along each wall that extends from it. With a pantry shelf depth of 10-12 inches, this will still give you enough space for maneuverability.
• Small Corner Pantry Size – Ensure that you have at least a 45 inch length along each perpendicular wall extending from the corner if you have a small corner that you want to turn into a pantry. Reduce pantry shelf depth to 8- 10 inches.
• Large Corner Pantry Size – Large walk-in corner pantry dimensions range from 5-6 feet from the corner along each perpendicular wall. This pantry size allows you to maximize the shelf depth and allows you to add narrow countertops if you desire.

Reach-in Pantry Dimensions

If you have a long, narrow space near the kitchen that’s too small for a walk-in, a reach-in pantry is a great alternative. Standard reach-in pantries are about 5 feet wide and 2 feet deep—ideal for easy access and efficient storage.

When there’s no extra space for a dedicated pantry, built-in or freestanding pantry cabinets are a smart solution.

• Batwing Cabinet – Similar to French refrigerator doors, a batwing cabinet features double doors that open from the center above lower cabinets. Shelves on the inside of each door help maximize storage.
• Pull-out Cabinet – Pull-out cabinets feature designs that allow you to pull out the inside shelves of the cabinet. This gives you the ability to utilize even the far back spaces in the cabinet maximizing your cabinet usage.
• Freestanding Cabinet – Rather than use built-in cabinets for a pantry, opt for a freestanding hutch or cabinet. This works well in historic and traditional-style kitchens.
• Corner Cabinets – Corner cabinets are good options to utilize for corner pantries or if you are creating a pantry from built-in cabinets.

Pantry Door Size

Door size and style depend on your pantry layout and design preference. Hinged doors are common and usually swing outward, which requires clear floor space in front. Sliding barn doors are a great space-saving alternative, especially for tight areas, since they glide along the wall.

• Standard Pantry Door Size – The most typical pantry door width is 24 inches if you are using a single pantry door. Other width options to consider are 28, 30, 32, and 36 inches. Standard door height is 80 inches.
• Double Pantry Door Size – For a large pantry or a reach-in pantry, double doors are optimal. There are no standard double door sizes, but you can find double doors that are 60, 64, and 72 inches wide and 80 inches tall.
• Corner Pantry Door Size – You can use a standard door size for corner pantries, but you will set these doors at a 45-degree angle. Unless you have a large wall space, barn pantry doors are not a good option as there will not be enough adjacent wall space to open the door to the full.

Pantry Shelf Sizes

• Standard Pantry Shelf Depth – Most pantry shelves range from 16–20 inches deep, but depth can vary based on placement and pantry size. Use 12-inch deep shelves for higher spots to improve access, and opt for shallower shelves in small pantries to keep walkways clear. Spice shelves typically need just 6 inches of depth.
• Pantry Shelf Height Options – Shelf spacing depends on what you’re storing. Leave 18–24 inches of space above the floor for bulky items or appliances. For other shelves, use 18–20 inches for large items, 14–16 inches for cereal boxes, and 6–7 inches for canned goods.

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