Pantries, once simply closets or cupboards for storing a few perishables, have become much more elaborate—especially now that people are staying at home more. The walk-in pantry has emerged as the most desirable kitchen feature for home buyers in recent years, according to a 2019 survey from the National Association of Home Builders. More than 85% of homes larger than 3,500 square feet feature a walk-in pantry.
“We’ve been offering pantries for a number of years, but the luxury pantry is the new must-have,” Lisa McClelland, national vice president of design studios for Toll Brothers, told The Wall Street Journal. “For some of our buyers, it serves as a Pinterest- or Instagram-ready organizational space.”
Toll Brothers is offering a new floor plan in the $635,000 to $779,000 price range that features a 70-square-foot walk-in pantry that can include built-in shelves, quartzite countertops, and hardwood floors. It can also be upgraded with spice-rack pullouts, wine storage columns, and built-in lazy Susans for added storage.
Trending hashtags on Instagram like #pantryinspo and #pantrygoals have become popular as homeowners look for inspiration for sprucing up their pantries. “Here in Utah, there are big families, big homes, and lots of food storage; people love a beautiful pantry,” Tracy Bowers, a home organizer based in Salt Lake City, told the Journal. “You don’t want your pantry overstuffed.”