A scullery refers to a small room or area in old houses and institutions, typically located near the kitchen, where dishes were washed and food waste was disposed of.
A scullery, initially associated with housemaids in historic homes, is now more than just a dirty kitchen's extension. Originally built for hosting and guests' blissful obliviousness towards the messy kitchen chores, today's sculleries serve various purposes in our everyday lives.
Traditionally, sculleries were a part of grand Victorian-era homes, complete with a sink, cabinet storage, and even a dishwasher in the modern world. Biltmore House in Asheville is an excellent example of these homes, mirroring the "upstairs-downstairs" vibe seen in period dramas like Downton Abbey.
While none of us may be living like Lord Grantham or Cornelius Vanderbilt, the practicality and versatility of sculleries still attract our interest. So let's dive into how to utilize this additional kitchen space for our benefit.
Scullery vs. Butler's Pantry
With home design magazines and social media influencers setting the trends, a more popular design edition today is the Butler's Pantry. While both sculleries and butler's pantries serve similar functions, they differ in key aspects.
The primary distinction between a scullery and a butler's pantry is that a scullery is often plumbed, while a butler's pantry is not.
Now, let's take a closer look at how to transform your scullery into a personal favorite space at home.
3 Ways to Utilize Your Scullery
A Wet Bar
Convert your scullery into a private, elegant retreat for cocktails and social gatherings. Opt for a dark, moody palette, or choose a light, modern style with an abundance of warm lighting. Regardless of your choice, a scullery bar will provide a perfect hideaway for serving your guests.
A Prep Kitchen
Even if not used for dish washing, a scullery makes for an ideal prep kitchen. Create your "mise en place" in this space, away from the main kitchen's mess. Design it with necessary tools, knives, and a concealed trash can for proper waste disposal. With a scullery, cleaning up becomes a problem for Future You.
The Appliance Library
If you desire a tidy kitchen workspace, a scullery can act as the perfect appliance library. Store unused appliances in this hidden spot, allowing your countertops to stay clutter-free. With a scullery, you can have your high-use appliances within easy reach while keeping your main kitchen more aesthetically pleasing.
Make the most of this architectural gem in your house by tailoring it to your specific needs. Whether renovating or redesigning, your scullery can be a testament to your home's efficiency and elegance. Let your creativity run wild!
The concept of sculleries, once reserved for housemaids and hidden away in grand Victorian-era homes like Biltmore House in Asheville, is now being revived and reinvented by modern homeowners. Southern Living magazine often features inspiring kitchen design ideas that incorporate sculleries, offering credit lines for home improvement projects.
One of the key differences between a scullery and a Butler's Pantry is that a scullery is often plumbed, making it perfect for installing appliances needed for prep work or washing. This feature, showcased in popular home design trends, makes sculleries a valuable addition to today's kitchens.
Homeowners can utilize their sculleries in several ways, transforming them into personal favorites. For example, turning it into a private wet bar can create a charming setting for cocktail parties, or using it as an appliance library allows for a tidy and clutter-free main kitchen.
Inspired by the versatility and historical significance of sculleries, homeowners can redesign or renovate their homes to incorporate these functional spaces, enhancing their homes' overall efficiency and style.
