I've found the most affordable way to create a pantry in a small kitchen - this IKEA shelving unit is the ultimate solution for customised storage

When you think of a pantry, the vision of an expansive, perfectly organised walk-in room often comes to mind. It's a premium, wishlist-level kitchen feature, but with a small kitchen, it's not always achievable.

This is where this genius IKEA IVAR shelving unit comes in. Whether you have a small kitchen where fitted kitchen pantry ideas aren't possible, or you want to retrospectively add storage to an existing design, this standalone IKEA unit is the solution.

For just £120, it's the most affordable way to create a pantry by a mile. Here's why it's worth buying.

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While built-in pantries can look stunning in a kitchen, sometimes an abundance of fitted cabinetry can overwhelm a space, particularly in a small kitchen.

Freestanding kitchens are the traditional way that cooking spaces were designed, and this old-school design trend is coming back in 2026. While there are some premium freestanding units to choose from, there are also ways to get the same look on a budget.

This IKEA IVAR unit is the perfect example of a freestanding pantry unit that has all of the practical storage elements without taking up too much space.

The simple pine construction of this pantry is undoubtedly IKEA, and therefore it would naturally complement a Scandi-inspired kitchen scheme.

However, if you prefer a more traditional look than a contemporary one, then this unit is also really easy to customise.

Natural pine can be painted to match any wall or kitchen cabinetry shade, so with just a quick lick of paint this pantry will blend into the rest of your space.

Adding a kitchen cupboard curtain around it will also keep pantry clutter confined, while adding an inviting cottage-inspired touch to the space.

As with everything IKEA produces, the simple design has many more carefully thought-out features than you initially might think.

The top of the unit acts as a shelf for jars or even small appliances like a coffee machine or toaster, providing you with vital extra worktop space that is always handy in a small kitchen.

The four baskets below have a traditional grocery store aesthetic which will make thrown-in fruit and vegetables look like they've been artfully curated. For anything less visually pleasing, the bottom drawer will keep pantry items subtly hidden in the slatted-design.

There are so many ways to build upon the IVAR storage unit, too. IKEA has many different tsyles of shelving in the IVAR family s you can choose the exact height and size that works for your kitchen then add on the specific baskets and drawers you desire.

Shop freestanding pantry storage

Built-in kitchen cupboards aren't the only option for effective storage - there are so many ways to build a pantry that fits your specific needs and space, whether big or small. These hidden pantry ideas will make sure yours is kept tucked away as well as possible.