I’m a child of the 70s. I was never particularly nostalgic until I hit my 40s, and suddenly everything from my childhood started pulling me back — Earth, Wind & Fire’s greatest hits that I listen to often, the unique mid‑century modern furniture pieces I find myself eyeing on Facebook Marketplace, old family photos I sorted through before our big move. Our old house on Laramie Circle held so many memories, especially around cooking and the holidays. The colors, the patterns, and the mid‑century energy from that time have stayed with me, and I find myself drawn to anything that echoes that warmth.
My husband and I were privileged to build our own home here in rural North Carolina, finishing it last year. We’ve lived in it almost a year now, and by accident, we ended up building my dream home. I never expected that. It felt strange to even say it.
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A Home That Became My Dream Home Without Me Realizing It
People often talk about “building your dream home,” and for a long time, that phrase never felt like mine. Maybe it was because I didn’t think I’d ever do it or have the opportunity. Maybe it just felt a little cringe — like something people say casually, but not something I ever pictured myself saying. And honestly, I was so distracted by all the details and the work involved that I wasn’t even aware of the energy that was being created within our decisions throughout the home. So when everything finally came together, the surprise was real. I didn’t set out to build my dream home, but somewhere along the way, it became one. Not because it’s perfect, but because it feels like us.
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Designing a Pantry With Heart and History
I wanted space I’d never had before — room to move around, room to see everything, room to breathe. I wanted counters where I could set things down without juggling. I wanted open shelving that felt easy for a family of four, especially since we entertain throughout the year.
And then there was the wallpaper.
Bright, vibrant, unapologetically 70s. My kitchen didn’t have a pantry growing up — we didn’t have that kind of space — but the energy from my old house on Laramie Circle still lives in me. The colors, the patterns, the warmth of that home shaped what I’m drawn to now. So even though this pantry looks different from the one I grew up with, the feeling behind it is the same. The open shelving, the warm wood countertop, the mid‑century energy — it all came together in a way I didn’t expect.
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Built From 25+ Years of Organizing Experience
This pantry didn’t come from Pinterest. It came from decades of mental notes — 25+ years of organizing pantries for clients, noticing what works, what doesn’t, how families move, what systems feel calm, and what details make a pantry feel like home.
Every pantry I’ve ever organized left an imprint. Every client’s style, energy, and layout taught me something. All of that shaped this space.
And I didn’t build it alone. My husband helped bring it to life — the shelving, the lighting, the layout. Together, we created a pantry that feels nostalgic and modern at the same time.
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Why This Pantry Feels Like Home
When I look around — from the wallpaper to the countertops to the organizing supplies and the light fixtures — I see a space I had a hand in choosing. I chose the energy. I chose the colors. I chose the feeling.
The bright wallpaper feels like joy.
The open shelving feels like freedom.
The clear bins feel like calm.
The whimsical wire basket feels like personality.
The vintage plate feels like memory.
This pantry isn’t just organized. It’s mine. It’s a space that makes me smile every single day.
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A Touch of Mid‑Century Charm
I wasn’t planning on adding décor to the pantry, but when I found a vintage plate at a thrift store, I couldn’t walk away. The yellow pattern reminded me instantly of my childhood home — the colors, the shapes, the warmth. And lately I’ve been drawn to vintage plates and bowls in general; there’s something about their patterns and weight that feels familiar. Even though my kitchen didn’t have a pantry growing up, these little pieces carry the same energy. The plate ties perfectly into the wallpaper and adds a small nostalgic moment that makes the pantry feel even more personal.
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My Top Three Pantry Tips
These are the same tips I give clients — simple, practical, and easy to maintain.
1. Reset and clean often
Pantries get messy fast. A quick reset keeps everything functional.
2. Use clear organizing supplies
Clear bins make grocery lists easier, prevent overbuying, and help everyone know where things belong.
3. Create a little moment in your pantry
Make it fun. Add glasses, entertaining dishes, a pop of color, or something quirky. A pantry can be functional and interesting.
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Fall Pantry Refresh: Preparing for the Holiday Season
Fall is when life speeds up — school routines, sports, holidays, hosting. Before the rush hits, I always recommend starting with a pantry refresh. It’s grounding, simple, and sets the tone for the entire season.
A few things I always do:
• Clear out expired or forgotten items
• Refill everyday staples
• Make space for holiday cooking
• Check organizers and replace anything worn
When your pantry is ready, everything else feels more manageable.
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The Three Organizers I Chose for My Pantry
1. The Whimsical Wire Basket
I could’ve gone with something clear and simple, but I loved the lines and the design. It felt playful and mid‑century — a perfect fit for the wallpaper.
Approx. price: ~$13 (discontinued)
2. The Clear Pull‑Out Bins
These are perfect for my son’s school snacks. The size is ideal, and the visibility makes daily life easier.
Link: https://www.containerstore.com/s/kitchen/pantry-organizers/the-home-edit-tall-drawer/12d?productId=11012914
Price: $29.99
3. The Extra‑Large Clear Cereal Canister
Practical, clean, and keeps cereal fresh longer. It’s one of those items that quietly makes life easier.
Link (4‑pack): https://www.containerstore.com/s/kitchen/food-storage/the-home-edit-cereal-canister/12d?productId=11012913
Price: ~$39.99–$49.99
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Final Thoughts
This pantry is more than shelves and bins. It’s a blend of childhood memories, professional experience, mid‑century inspiration, and the life my family is building now — especially for soon‑to‑be empty‑nesters. It’s functional, nostalgic, and full of personality, and it reminds me every day that home is something we create intentionally.
Sidney Young, Professional Organizer — Need Organizing, North Carolina
