Before & After: This $350 Pantry Makeover Is Ridiculously Impressive

Before she made it over, Torie says the space just wasn’t working well and serving its purpose for her family. “It was very unorganized with no designated spot for specific items,” she says. “The state of the pantry also made it difficult to figure out what foods we had in stock.”

So, in order to really make a change for the better, Torie says she spent about two months prior to the redo on research — figuring out how she could leverage items she already owned and sourcing products that could work in other areas of her home if she decided to switch things up. She kept her eyes peeled for sales and coupons.

For a clutter-free look that functioned well for her family, she ended up going with wire and woven baskets and clear food storage, and she labeled practically everything. She tucked away appliances on top shelves; stored cans, bottles, and sauces just below; and placed everyday snacks in lower-down baskets so they can be easily grabbed. “With a growing family, it is easier for the littles to get their snack items, etc., without moving things around to look,” Torie says.

All together, Torie says she spent about $350, and she loves how accessible and functional the space now feels. “Grocery runs are easier now,” she says. “I can just walk in and make a quick list without rummaging through things. Only regret is not doing it sooner.”

For anyone else working on a home project, whether organization-based or otherwise, Torie recommends focusing on your ultimate vision for the space, then turning to researching, planning, and budgeting. “This allows for an understanding of how the project can be executed,” she says. “Plans almost always change, especially when working on bigger projects. Not losing sight of the initial goals and plans are key when those changes need to be made.”

Inspired? Submit your own project here.