I don’t know if you feel the same way, but I always feel like I need more storage! Last year, when we were remodeling the kitchen, we had to cut a hole in the pantry to get behind the wall with the stove. Our pantry is located under the stairs, but it was only a reach-in. The original dimensions were 22″ deep and 34″ wide. So, while my husband was out of town I decided to “remodel” our pantry.

I tore out the shelves and drywall, and here’s what I was left with. I knew I would need more light, since it would be SO much larger. It went from 22″ deep to now 91″ deep! I found some small spot lights. I did all the wiring myself, but I would suggest hiring someone.

I ran the wiring for two lights and an outlet for my cordless vacuum. Then I measured, and measured again…the lights had to fit between the stairs. I had to ask my neighbors for some help hanging the ceiling pieces, but I got them all up and moved on to the walls. I used panels that mimicked bead board, but that were already white gloss.

Tip: If you use the pre-painted boards, make sure you put tape where you want to cut for the outlets. The saw will leave marks.

This will show you just how little the previous pantry space was. It also shows that I have a little bit of a flooring dilemma. Any suggestions?

Here is the somewhat finished project. I just used trim and moldings to hide all the seams and imperfections, then caulked.

I LOVE the extra storage!

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