Kitchen Islands, Pantries & Storage Upgrades in Tacoma, WA

If your kitchen feels cluttered, the fix is usually layout and storage, not more stuff. Artisan Kitchen Works builds kitchen islands, pantry upgrades, and pull-out organizers that fit Tacoma homes. We plan it in 3D, confirm clearances and power, then install cleanly so the kitchen works better every day.

  • Most islands need about 36 to 42 inches of clearance around them.
  • If your kitchen is tight, a peninsula or slim island often works better than forcing a large island.
  • If we add outlets or change plumbing, permits may apply. We can coordinate that through our Kitchen Permits & Project Management page.
Kitchen Islands, Pantries & Storage Tacoma

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(253) 204-7271

401 Broadway Suite 100 Tacoma, WA 98402

Our Tacoma-focused specialty features add real function to any footprint—from compact galleys in Proctor to bigger open plans in University Place—using smart storage, clean power planning, and low-maintenance finishesSee our full approach on the Kithcen Remdoeling.

Islands That Fit Your Space

Seating, Clearances, and Power

A great island feels natural to walk around and comfortable to sit at (map clearances & seating in 3D).

  • Clearances Target 36″–42″ walk paths around all sides; leave 48″ behind dishwashers/ranges where possible.
  • Seating Depth: Plan 12″–15″ knee space (more for counter-height stools).
  • Power: Code-correct outlets on island ends/backs; optional USB-C or pop-ups (island circuits & code-compliant hookups)..
  • Workflow: Keep prep near sinks; leave a landing zone beside ranges and fridges.

Peninsula vs. Island

Deciding on the best centerpiece for your kitchen’s size.

  • Peninsula: Excellent in tighter rooms; adds seating and storage without extra aisle width.
  • Island: Best for open plans; can separate cook and snack zones and improve circulation.
  • Customization: Both can accommodate sinks, cooktops, and pull-out storage based on workflow needs.

Pantries & Storage Systems That End Clutter

Pantry Options

  • Tall Cabinets: Adjustable roll-outs, shallow shelves to avoid “stuffed in the back.”
  • Walk-In / Step-In: Narrow shelves (10″–12″) keep items visible; add door racks.
  • Utility Add-Ons: Broom/vacuum slots, charging cubbies, and labeled bins.

Organizers That End Clutter

  • Pull-Outs & Deep Drawers: Pots/pans, mixing bowls, and containers live where you use them.
  • Tray/Sheet Dividers: Vertical partitions near ovens make baking simple.
  • Blind-Corner Solutions: LeMans or Magic Corner units bring contents out to you.
  • Spice & Oil Pull-Outs: Narrow pull-outs flanking the range keep flavors at hand.

Hidden Functionality

  • Appliance Garages: Hide toasters/espresso under lift doors with dedicated outlets.
  • Charging Drawers: Tuck phones and tablets away while they power up safely.
  • Pop-Up Outlets: Seamless power integration in the island or countertop.

Small Kitchen Solutions (Galley & Condo Friendly)

  • Slim Appliances: Use 24″ & 27″ European-size dishwashers, fridges, and ranges to free up aisle space.
  • Pocket/Barn Doors: Remove door swing conflicts at pantries or laundry pass-throughs.
  • Vertical Storage: Ceiling-height cabinets; shallow shelves on unused walls.
  • Aisle Strategy: Maintain 42″ between runs when you can; minimum 36″ works with careful planning.

Eco & Accessibility Upgrades

Eco & Low-VOC Choices

  • Low-VOC Finishes: Cabinet paints and sealers that improve indoor air quality.
  • LED Everywhere: Under-cabinet task lights and dimmable pendants lower energy use.
  • Easy-Clean Surfaces: Quartz or porcelain backsplashes to cut down on chemical cleaners (low-care counters & splash options).

Accessibility & Aging-in-Place

  • Wider Clearances: Aim for 42″–48″ main aisles for easy movement.
  • Lever Hardware: Easier on hands; soft-close hinges reduce effort and noise.
  • Pull-Down Shelves: Bring uppers within reach; seated prep zones (30″ high).

Our Process: Storage-First Planning

1

Measure & Habits Review

What you cook, what you store, and which zones frustrate you daily.

2

Layout & Feature Mapping

Island vs peninsula, aisle widths, outlet plan, and organizer list developed.

3

3D & Finish Boards

See appliance garages, pull-outs, and seating in context before ordering.

4

Build & Install

Clean cuts, solid anchors, code-correct power, and tuned door/drawer reveals.

5

Walkthrough & Tuning

Adjust organizer heights, verify outlet access, and review care/maintenance.

FAQs

Yes, sometimes. If clearances are tight, a peninsula or slim island gives you prep space without blocking traffic.

Most kitchens need about 36 to 42 inches of walking space around the island, and more if seating is involved.

It depends on length and legroom, but we plan seating so people can sit without blocking the main walkway.

Yes. We plan outlet locations early so power is safe, practical, and placed where you will actually use it.

Sometimes, yes. If electrical or plumbing changes are involved, permits may apply and we can coordinate the steps.

Often, yes. A peninsula can add seating and prep space while keeping the kitchen easier to move through.

Pull-out pantry shelves and drawer-style lower storage usually make the kitchen feel cleaner and easier to use.

Yes, in many cases. We look for unused wall space, awkward corners, or areas that can be reworked into tall storage.

Deep drawers, pull-out shelves, and vertical dividers reduce bending and make it easier to see what you own.

An appliance garage is a cabinet space that hides small appliances. It can be code-friendly when it’s planned with safe clearance and power.

Often, yes. We aim for a clean, intentional match, or we design the new work so it looks like a planned upgrade.

Yes. We can specify low-VOC products and materials that are easier to maintain day to day.

Wider aisles, lever hardware, pull-down shelves, better lighting, and easier-reach storage usually make the biggest difference.

Yes. Starting with a storage-first plan and 3D layout helps you decide confidently before ordering materials.

Tell us what annoys you daily in the kitchen. We measure, map, and propose a layout that fits how you cook and move through the space.

Book a Storage-First Planning Session

Tell us what drives you crazy in your kitchen. We’ll measure, map, and model islands, pantries, and organizers that match how you live—then install with tight lines and clean power.

Call: (253) 204-7271

Fast reply with next steps for your Tacoma home.