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What would you do if your kitchen reno budget doubled overnight?

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photo12
2 posts

Couldn’t agree more about deep drawers - once you’ve had them, there’s no going back. I built my own a few years ago and still get a little thrill every time I pull one out and see everything at a glance. One thing I’d add: vertical storage for baking sheets and cutting boards. It’s such a simple fix but makes a world of difference. Heated floors sound fancy, but honestly, I’d rather have a spot for every gadget than toasty toes. Maybe that’s just me...


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jartist62
2 posts

Deep drawers are a game changer, I’ll give you that, but I’d actually splurge on a full-height pantry with pull-out shelves if my budget doubled. Way more efficient for bulk storage than just adding more drawers. Curious - anyone here regret skipping a walk-in pantry?


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psychology671
2 posts

Curious - anyone here regret skipping a walk-in pantry?

Skipped the walk-in on my last flip and honestly, no regrets. Here’s how I look at it: 1) Full-height pantry with pull-outs gives you almost the same storage, but you don’t lose floor space. 2) Deep drawers under counters are perfect for pots, small appliances, even bulk snacks. Walk-ins look cool, but unless you’re storing Costco-level hauls, they’re not always practical. If I had double the budget, I’d focus on better lighting and maybe a second dishwasher before going for a walk-in. Just my two cents.


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12 posts

Never had a walk-in pantry in our 1920s place, and honestly, I don’t miss it. We use a tall cabinet with shelves and old-school bins - works fine for us, and I like not having to walk into another room just to grab flour. If I suddenly had double the budget, I’d probably splurge on custom cabinetry or maybe one of those fancy built-in coffee stations, but still wouldn’t carve out space for a walk-in. The charm’s in making the most of what you’ve got, right?


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7 posts

If my reno budget doubled, I’d focus on stuff that actually adds value long-term - think higher-end appliances or better counters, not a walk-in pantry. I’ve flipped a few older houses and honestly, most buyers care more about smart storage and quality finishes than a big pantry room. Those tall cabinets with pull-outs? Way more efficient in tight spaces.

I get the appeal of a walk-in for some folks, but I’d rather use the extra cash for things you see and touch every day - like soft-close drawers or maybe splurging on a killer range. The “charm” factor matters too; sometimes keeping the original layout just works better, especially in these older homes where space is at a premium.

Funny thing - I once renovated a 1930s kitchen and the best feedback was about the clever storage we squeezed into every nook, not the size of the pantry. People remember good design, not just square footage.


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