Once considered a relic of historic estates, the scullery kitchen is making a notable comeback, redefining luxury and functionality in modern homes. At BOLD Construction, we’ve observed an increasing trend among our custom home clients asking for this smart and stylish kitchen addition. But what exactly is a scullery, and why should it be a part of your dream home?
Let’s explore the allure of this versatile space and how contemporary design is bringing it back into the spotlight.
What Is a Scullery?
A scullery is a secondary room adjacent to your primary kitchen, designed as an overflow area for cooking preparation, dishwashing, storage, and behind-the-scenes entertaining. Historically common in European households, sculleries were used to conceal the mess associated with meal preparation—an advantage still highly appreciated by homeowners who love hosting in a tidy, open-concept kitchen.
In today’s modern homes, a scullery typically includes:
- A secondary sink and dishwasher
- Additional countertop space for meal preparation
- Built-in cabinetry or open shelving for small appliances and cookware
- A secondary refrigerator or freezer
- Dedicated coffee stations or wine storage areas
- Discreet workspace for caterers during gatherings
Essentially, a scullery functions as a hidden working kitchen, and it’s becoming one of the most sought-after features in custom homes and renovations.
BOLD Construction Custom Built Home in Pittsboro
Scullery vs. Butler’s Pantry: What’s the Difference?
Although often used interchangeably, sculleries and butler’s pantries have distinct purposes:
- Butler’s Pantry: Typically a transitional space between the kitchen and dining room, designed primarily for meal staging, fine china storage, and drink preparation. It’s more about presentation and storage.
- Scullery: Engineered for functionality and heavy use, a scullery generally features full plumbing, appliances, and ample workspace for cooking and cleaning. If the butler’s pantry is for show, the scullery is the powerhouse where real kitchen work takes place.
Scullery vs. Mudroom
Both sculleries and mudrooms provide practical storage solutions but serve different purposes and areas of the home:
- Mudroom: Usually situated near the home’s entrance, designed for outerwear, shoes, backpacks, and laundry storage.
- Scullery: Directly connected to the kitchen, it acts as a dedicated culinary workspace.
Key Benefits of Having a Scullery
Maintain a Spotless Main Kitchen
One significant advantage of having a scullery is the ability to keep your primary kitchen pristine, particularly during entertaining. With designated space for prep work and dirty dishes, your guests can enjoy a beautiful, uncluttered kitchen while the practical work happens behind the scenes.
Increased Storage Without Compromising Style
Sculleries provide a convenient location to store bulky appliances like air fryers, blenders, espresso machines, or extra pantry items, allowing your main kitchen to maintain clean, streamlined countertops.
Simplify Entertaining
For those who regularly host gatherings, a scullery acts as a seamless staging area for food and beverages, allowing you to effortlessly manage hosting duties away from guests’ eyes.
BOLD Construction Custom Built Home in Chapel Hill
Why Homeowners Are Choosing Sculleries
Increasingly, our clients who prioritize cooking, entertaining, and organization are choosing to incorporate sculleries into their custom home designs. Whether it’s additional storage, extra prep space, or a discreet area to manage kitchen tasks, a scullery significantly enhances both functionality and property value.