The Pan Storage Plan: Choose from these 4 options…

Ugly pans need a home too. When you're building a new kitchen, it’s easy to focus on countertops and backsplashes but don’t forget about where all your pots and pans are going to live.

Plan ahead with one of these pan storage setups.

Hanging Pan Slider

This one is especially useful if your pans come with loop-style handles and matching lids. Glideware makes a slider that installs inside your cabinet, and you can hang your pans (with the lids stacked right on them) along a rail that slides out like a drawer. Just a heads up: if your lids have round knobs instead of flat handles, this setup might not work as smoothly.

Pull-Out Pan Rack

This is a great pick if you’re working with standard lower cabinets. The rack mounts inside your cabinet and lets you store pans upright for better visibility and access. Rev-A-Shelf makes one that you can install as-is, or you can grab the mounting kit so the cabinet face attaches to the rack and pulls out like a drawer. It’s functional, affordable, and super helpful if you’re tired of digging through stacked cookware.

Pull-Out Pan Drawers

These are my personal favorites, especially the ones with a dedicated upper lid drawer. Made by Hinge Designs, these are sleek and organized. You get smooth pull-out access to your pans, and the lids don’t end up tossed in a random pile. This is one of those upgrades that instantly makes your kitchen feel more high-end and well thought out.

Out In The Open

Hanging your pans out in the open might not be everyone’s favorite look, but it’s a classic option. It keeps everything within reach and can add a rustic or industrial feel to the kitchen if done right. That said, if you’re not into the visual clutter or have beautiful clean cabinetry, this one might not make the cut.

Plan Ahead For Storage That Works

If you’re in the planning stages of your kitchen, this is the time to figure out where everything will go, especially bulky items like pots and pans.

Want even more ideas like this? Before you build, go through the Ultimate Home Building Checklist. It’s packed with tips, smart upgrades, and real-world advice to help you avoid regrets, delays, and those “we should’ve thought of that” moments.