Martha Stewart’s Kitchen Cabinets Teach the Strongest Storage Lesson in 25 Years – Still Inspiring After a Quarter Century

The best kitchen designs are smart enough to never fall out of fashion, and Martha Stewart's pantry in her Maine home is an unrivaled example. Skylands, the 1925 Duncan Candler house Martha purchased in 1999, is defined by its remarkable attention to detail, and the evident thoughtfulness behind every design choice – led by the tall, vertical cabinets in her pantry.

When it comes to smart kitchen storage ideas, vertical cabinets have stood the test of time for longer than 25 years. In Martha's example, she ensures every inch of space (right up to the ceiling) is put to use, turning air into functional storage.

It's a lesson that transforms the functionality of a small kitchen, but it's also worth following in a larger home, just like Martha's. You don't need a compact room to want to use your space strategically – because being smart with storage won't ever fall out of style – even after all these years.

Shop Martha's pantry

Following Martha's example has its benefits in every kitchen. However, it could have deeper benefits if you're thinking of moving.

'One of the things I love most about design is turning challenges into opportunities. As both a designer and a realtor, I know how much value clever design adds to a home, not just in resale value but also in day-to-day living. Especially in smaller houses or apartments, every inch counts. One of the most common mistakes I see is ignoring vertical space. People pack drawers and stuff cabinets, but they forget that there’s often a whole wall’s worth of room just waiting to be used,' comments Eric Bramlett, a realtor and owner of Bramlett Real Estate.

'A while back, I worked with a client who had a small kitchen in central Austin. They loved to cook, but their counters were always cluttered and their cabinets overflowing. We took a step back, looked up, and transformed their space with floor-to-ceiling cabinetry. Suddenly, they had a place for everything – spices, cookware, even their bulky stand mixer. And it looked incredible. We mixed in a few open shelves and added under-cabinet lighting, and the kitchen felt bigger, brighter, and much more usable.'

Plus, its benefits go beyond functionality. As Martha reminds us, it’s also a design element in its own right, and Eric agrees.

'Whether you’re using sleek modern shelves or rustic reclaimed wood, it can add visual interest and make your kitchen feel intentional and pulled together. And if you’re thinking about resale value, buyers notice a well-designed kitchen. It tells them the home was cared for and thought through.'

Start seeing your walls as more than just boundaries. Floor-to-ceiling storage can free up counter space, highlight your style, and even improve resale value. Small changes, thoughtful design, and a little inspiration from Martha can make every inch count.