Client Stories:

A Multifunctional Modern Pantry for a Newly Renovated Home

client: Norma and Leo Dean

location: Indianapolis, IN

design consultant: Norma and Leo Dean

Wine storage and pantry storage in a light wood finish created by California Closets

Pantry cabinets with etched glass cabinet in a wood grain finish custom created by California Closets

What They Wanted

Instead of downsizing, the Deans, a retired couple, decided to renovate their home to suit their needs. They put in an amazing new kitchen and bathroom, new floors and other great elements—now they needed a reimagined pantry that would serve as a coffee bar, wine storage and pottery storage. Since the door to the pantry is usually open, the Deans wanted the space to harmonize with their modern remodel. Particularly, they wanted the design to incorporate some pieces of art. How the pantry looked was just as important to them as its function.

Pantry storage with pull out drawers for in a light wood grain finish by California Closets

How we did it

With the door being open all the time, it was important to Simon that the design sparked a wow factor. Friends and family would use this room to pick out a bottle of wine or make a cappuccino, so the space needed to look stunning. To open up the room, she added reeded glass doors with Ecoresin Hollywood Silver and mirror backing. Making space for a coffee and wine bar also meant getting the electric outlets in the right places, as well as installing a proper countertop for pouring. Space was left above the system for pottery while sliding shelves underneath the countertop provided easy-to-access storage.

final result

Even though this is a 'pantry,' this room is so much more than that. The Deans love how it doesn't look like storage space—and that it fits the style of a picture they showed me of a French kitchen.

Simon made a pantry look like a piece of art while providing her clients with the space they needed for their multiple storage needs. They were amazed at how creative this usually utilitarian space turned out.