Blog

Feb
17

Why the Scullery has become a must-have in the modern kitchen

By Jay Hawkinson

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A Concept 32 designed scullery for a home in Boulder, Colorado


As kitchens evolve to meet the needs of modern homeowners, an old concept is making a strong comeback—the scullery. Traditionally used in grand homes to keep the main kitchen clean and organized, sculleries are now being integrated into contemporary designs to provide extra storage, workspace, and functionality as well as a place to keep appliances out of sight. So what is a scullery and how does it compare to the traditional pantry or a butler’s pantry?

Let’s explore why a scullery might be the perfect addition to your kitchen remodel.


scullery /ˈskəl-rē/ noun : a room for cleaning and storing dishes and cooking utensils and for doing messy kitchen work


A scullery is essentially an auxiliary kitchen space, typically located adjacent to the main kitchen. It is designed to handle messy tasks like dishwashing, food prep, and small appliance storage, keeping the primary kitchen clean and presentable. Sculleries often feature sinks, dishwashers, additional counter space, and ample shelving for dry goods and cookware.


Compare to:


pantry /ˈpantrē/ noun : a small room or closet in which food, dishes, and utensils are kept


We all know that kitchen pantries are often closets or small rooms off to the side that are used for non-perishables and extra container storage. The scullery is more than just a pantry; it’s like a kitchenette combined with a pantry. A butler’s pantry, on the other hand, is more focused on storage and staging, while a scullery acts as a fully functional secondary kitchen. Many modern designs blend the two concepts, offering a multi-purpose space that serves both storage and cleaning needs.



A hidden scullery designed for Just Construction in Denver, Colorado


The scullery enhances a modern kitchen.


Modern open-concept kitchens are beautiful but can easily become cluttered when entertaining guests. A scullery acts as a hidden workspace where homeowners can store dirty dishes, prepare meals, or even house small appliances like microwaves, coffee makers and air fryers out of sight. Here are some benefits of adding a scullery to your kitchen:



  • Keeps the Main Kitchen Pristine: By shifting dishwashing and meal prep into a separate space, the main kitchen remains tidy and guest-ready.

  • Increases Storage and Organization: With extra cabinetry and shelving, a scullery provides more storage for bulk items and kitchen essentials.

  • Enhances Entertaining: When hosting, you can prep food and clean up without disrupting the ambiance of the main kitchen.

  • Boosts Home Value: A well-designed scullery adds luxury appeal and practicality, making it a desirable feature for potential buyers.


If you love entertaining, appreciate being organized, or simply want to keep your beautiful kitchen looking sleek, a scullery can be a game-changer. Whether you opt for a full secondary kitchen or a hybrid scullery-butler’s pantry, this addition can elevate both the function and aesthetic of your home.


Thinking about incorporating a scullery into your kitchen remodel? Let’s discuss how this feature can work within your space and lifestyle needs. Contact us today for a free, no-strings-attached consultation; we want bring your ideas to life.


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