Why the Scullery Pantry is a Must-Have Kitchen Feature in Today’s Custom Homes

See why scullery pantries are in high demand—and how four custom home plans bring this must-have feature to life

Home design trends are evolving to meet the needs of modern living—and one of the most talked-about features in custom homes today is the scullery pantry.

Often hidden just out of sight, a scullery pantry (also called a scullery kitchen, prep kitchen, or prep pantry) is a walk-in pantry located adjacent to the main kitchen designed to house additional storage, countertop space, and appliances for a clean, clutter-free kitchen. At Travars Built Homes, we’re seeing growing demand for sculleries in custom builds, especially for homeowners who love to entertain or want to keep daily tasks behind closed doors.

What is a Scullery Pantry?

Historically, a scullery was a space used for washing dishes and preparing food, separate from the main kitchen. Today, it is essentially a walk-in pantry that does more. While a traditional pantry typically offers shelving for dry goods and kitchen supplies, a scullery pantry takes it a step further by including features like:

  • Closed doors or pocket entries to keep messes hidden
  • A second sink and/or dishwasher
  • Small appliances like mixers or coffee stations
  • Pantry storage with cabinetry and shelving
  • Additional countertop space for meal prep

In many custom homes, the scullery is positioned directly off the kitchen with a door or pocket entry to hide the mess while cooking or entertaining. Think of it as a miniature second kitchen that allows your main kitchen to shine.

Walk In Pantry with Built Ins | Mebane NC New Homes

Why Homeowners Love Scullery Pantries

Scullery kitchens offer practical benefits and luxurious convenience:

  • Perfect for Entertaining and Hosting: Keep dishes, prep, and clean-up out of sight while hosting guests in your open-concept space.
  • Streamlined Living: Store small appliances, bulk groceries, and supplies without cluttering your main kitchen.
  • Everyday Organization: Assign zones for meal prep, storage, and cleanup so your primary kitchen stays calm and collected.

Plans Featuring Scullery Kitchens

At Travars Built Homes, scullery pantries can be custom-designed into most layouts—just ask! Here are four popular floor plans where a scullery is already included or easily customizable into the design:

This modern Scandinavian-style plan blends sleek design with thoughtful function. The scullery pantry—tucked discreetly behind the kitchen—keeps everyday tasks out of the open-concept living areas, while adding serious storage and prep space. Clean lines meet quiet convenience in this high-functioning layout.

Rendering Copyright ArchitecturalDesigns.com & Associates

The Wembley Place plan offers charm and sophistication with classic farmhouse appeal. Its generous scullery pantry is ideally located between the kitchen and mudroom, providing a seamless transition for grocery drop-off, prep, and storage. It’s a workhorse behind the scenes that keeps the spotlight on your beautiful kitchen.

Rendering Copyright Frank Betz & Associates

Trowbridge is a beautifully balanced plan that blends traditional style with modern needs. The scullery pantry just off the main kitchen helps reduce countertop traffic and creates a natural place to organize meals, supplies, or even serve as a coffee or baking nook.

Rendering Copyright Frank Betz & Associates

A luxurious European-inspired farmhouse, the Eldermere House offers 3825 square feet of refined living. This plan has a butlers pantry, easily converted to a scullery pantry, just beyond the main kitchen, providing a perfect space for prepping meals or tucking away countertop clutter. Its placement enhances flow from the kitchen to the dining and outdoor entertaining areas.

Rendering Copyright ArchitecturalDesigns.com & Associates

Make Your Kitchen Work Smarter—Not Harder

When you build a custom home with Travars Built Homes, you can tailor every space—including your kitchen—to fit your lifestyle. A scullery kitchen is just one of the many features we can help you integrate to bring more ease, beauty, and function to your daily life.

Ready to explore more possibilities? See these plans and more in our online catalog, and let’s start the conversation about building your dream home today.

Get in Touch Today!

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