What Is a Kitchen Larder Unit?

Types of Larder Unit

Larder units come in several configurations. A standard larder has fixed or adjustable shelves throughout. A pull-out larder (also called a pantry unit) has internal frames that pull out for easy access to everything stored at the back. A larder housing can also be configured to hold a tall fridge-freezer with storage above or below.

Installation Considerations

• Larder units are tall and heavy — site access and ceiling height must be assessed before ordering
• Pull-out internal fittings must be installed in the correct sequence during assembly
• If the unit is flanked by wall units, the wall units must be set back to allow the larder door to open fully

Where Larder Units Work Best

Larder units are particularly effective in galley kitchens where wall space is premium, in open-plan kitchens where a dedicated storage column keeps work surfaces clear, and in family kitchens where food storage capacity is a priority.

Larder Unit Types Compared

Weight and Access Planning

A fully loaded pull-out larder can be heavy once stocked with tinned and jarred goods, so the internal frame runners need to be rated for the load and the unit itself firmly fixed to the wall or floor — this is worth confirming with your fitter, especially in a household that keeps a well-stocked pantry.

Do Larder Units Need Ventilation?

Only if they house an appliance — a fridge-freezer larder housing needs the same ventilation clearance as any other integrated fridge. A dry-goods larder with solid doors does not need ventilation, though some homeowners prefer a small vent to prevent condensation build-up in humid kitchens.