First, we obviously had to remove all the shelving. I didn't bother fixing the holes in the walls or anything like that because I knew the cabinets and shiplap would cover it.
We actually got these cabinets and countertops for free because my husband was working for a homebuilder and they were getting rid of them (bonus). But you can definately find afforable cabinets and countertops and then just have them installed, or install yourself. I will admit, I was all about the DIY in my younger years, but now I have found some trusted friends who do I use to contract jobs. It takes a little work but if you ask around you can find people who do work at really fair prices.
I wanted to be able to see into the space better so I had the doorway widdened. Unfortunately, it coudln't be widdened as much as I wanted because there we a beam in the way. So we could only go about 5 inches wider, but it still made a difference.
Here it is in the background of me showing off my outfit :) Here is what the pantry used to look like...
I am not without my DIY skills completely though, I caulked and painted... which was no small feat.
I'm pretty good at painting, even in my old age ;). A few months later I installed this adorable plaid wallpaper that added the perfect finishing touch.
And no, I didn't bother moving the bag of carrots or making my cork board look pretty for this picture. If we could all agree that's not necessary and move on that would be great. k, thanks.