Add a Scullery to Your Home to Stay Clean and Organized

You may have heard the word scullery before—or maybe not—but do you know what it is and what it’s actually used for?

A scullery is a dedicated space, typically located just off the main kitchen, that’s used for dishwashing and other household tasks.

Historically, the scullery was one of the busiest rooms in large English homes and estates. In fact, in some parts of the UK, the term “kitchen” still refers to what used to be the scullery. The word comes from the Old French term escuelerie, meaning a place for washing dishes.

It dates back to the Middle Ages, when manors and large homes needed a separate room specifically for dirty work like washing dishes and prepping food.

What Goes Into a Scullery Design?

The main purpose of a scullery is to keep clutter and mess out of the main kitchen, making it easier to cook and entertain in a clean, streamlined space. Modern sculleries often include an extra sink and expanded countertop space.

If you entertain frequently, a scullery can be a game changer—it gives you a place to stash dirty dishes out of sight while guests are around. Today, sculleries aren’t just for dishwashing and food prep, either. Many newer versions also include laundry facilities or extra storage for household supplies.

Scullery vs. Butler’s Pantry

While a scullery may look similar to a butler’s pantry, they serve different purposes. A scullery is all about the messy jobs—washing, rinsing, and cleaning—usually involving water.

It’s where the “behind-the-scenes” magic happens, so your main kitchen can stay clean and presentable for guests or family use.

A butler’s pantry, on the other hand, is a storage area for food, tableware, and linens. Historically, it was found in upper-class homes and overseen by a butler, who managed the household’s kitchen goods. It may include counters like a scullery, but its main job is to hold and serve food or drinks.

One key difference? A scullery is almost always located directly off the kitchen.

Modern Scullery Tips

If you live in an older home, you might already have a designated scullery space. And while sculleries are no longer a must-have in modern homes, you can still incorporate one—especially if you love entertaining and want to keep your kitchen clutter-free.

Whatever your reason for wanting a scullery, you can design one that suits your lifestyle and taste. Just because it’s a utility room doesn’t mean it has to be boring.

Design with personality in mind. Whether it’s cabinetry, wallpaper, or a cute printed sink skirt, personal touches can make a huge difference in a practical space.

Not sure you’re ready to go bold in your main kitchen? The scullery is the perfect place to try out colorful paint or fun tile patterns without committing to a full redesign.

To make it truly functional, pair a stylish look with modern amenities.

Think about incorporating flexible features like a mobile island or modular storage to boost adaptability. With the right balance of utility and style, your scullery can become one of the most useful—and unique—spaces in your home.