The Pantry Project

One of the nice things about our condo's kitchen is the walk-in pantry. Unfortunately, like many other things in a new build, the developer only did the bare minimum when installing shelving. So, we've had quite a few challenges over the last several years really maximizing that space's potential. Not long after we moved in, I added one additional shelf to the top of the pantry to gain some extra space. That helped some, but then we added a panini press and griddle, etc. etc. etc. Pretty soon, these were store in different cabinets, the basement, the trunk (ok, not really) and we forget we have them and then don't use them. It was getting out of hand.

So, in January, Susan and I went to the Container Store and had them help us design a plan using their Elfa shelving. We were excited and brought it all home and stored it in the basement - for 3 months! You know how it is, one thing lead to another and the project kept getting postponed again and again. It didn't take long for us to realize that the Elfa shelving really wasn't helping our storage problem while it was stacked in the basement. In fact, it was creating a whole new problem because of all the space it was taking up in the basement! We decided it was time to act. Well, Susan gave me a little nudge, and then we decided to act. :-)

On Saturday, I emptied the pantry and began the demolition. The wire shelving in the pantry was the Rubbermaid/closet maid type. Until you take it down, you forget how many holes are left in the drywall. For our pantry, I had to repair 75,435 holes. Then it was time to paint. I hate painting. Which is to say, I hate painting. Fortunately, Susan loves to paint so I was off the hook for that portion of the project. While Susan painted, I cleared out the garage to make way for my new grill. (Bday present from Susan, arriving to much fanfare later this week, and the topic of an upcoming post!).

Once all the prep work was done, we started the install. The best part of Elfa is the fact that it only takes a few holes and then you start hanging shelves. We only managed to complete the non-food side. Susan was a real sport and let me take the afternoon off to go see Iron Man with Mark (really enjoyed the movie, two thumbs up, definitely recommend you see it - not completely sure who you are, but feel confident you'll probably enjoy the movie too). Mark and I, through a series of poor communication, ended up seeing the movie at the same time, but at different theaters! It was like something from a sitcom. You think, 'no way that could happen in real life'. But, Mark and I managed to do it. I digress. Half the pantry is up. It's helped us better use the space. And, most importantly, Susan and I had fun working on the project together.

Depending on how many margaritas flow for Cinco de Mayo, we may finish this evening!