Corner Pantry Problems

Posted on: September 14th, 2011 | 2 Comments



The corner kitchen pantry is a ubiquitous feature of most fast houses. Although they promise a sense of residential grandeur and cooking efficiency, the reality is often much less interesting and effective. In most cases they’re really nothing more than a marketing tactic designed to improve the look of the feature sheet rather than the functionality of the kitchen.


There are two main problems. First, the shape and size of the typical corner pantry doesn’t provide a very effective storage space. The shelves are usually too deep and the floor area too small. The second problem is the outswing door. It’s situated at a 45 degree angle to the rest of the kitchen cabinetry and the clearance required for this door to open can reduce the size of the kitchen island or push it too far away from the other counter surfaces. Both of these issues far outweigh the illusion of value that most corner pantries provide.


Watch the video to see John and Matthew analyze the corner pantry problems in two fast house kitchens.


Today’s Slides:

  • Konkinsa

    John and Matthew:
    Yes, you couldn’t miss out a discussion on corner pantries in this Kitchen design month.  I think though you could  do a few more Design Minutes dealing with the corners in kitchens.  My parents had a lazy susan – you probably don’t recommend those.  Or how about in my house where there is a deep dark cupboard in the corner that I just about have to crawl inside to get that hand blender out.    

  • Matthew North

    Hi Konkinsa – your question about how to detail the “corner” areas of kitchens is such a good one that we are doing this topic for our Monday episode. Thanks for the input!