The Modern-Day Scullery: Function, Beauty, and the Ultimate Kitchen Upgrade
The Fiction—and Function—of the Modern-Day Scullery Room
Once a staple in grand historic homes, the scullery was where the real work happened—washing dishes, prepping food, storing supplies—tucked away from the formal entertaining spaces. But in today’s modern homes, the scullery is having a serious design revival.
At Inspired Spaces, we’re seeing more homeowners across Janesville and Southern Wisconsin embrace this timeless concept with a contemporary twist. Think of it as a secret weapon in your kitchen layout: a hardworking, beautifully designed space that keeps clutter (and chaos) out of sight, without sacrificing style.
What Is a Scullery Room, Really?
A modern-day scullery is like a secondary kitchen space, often located just off the main kitchen or pantry. It's where you can:
Stash dirty dishes while entertaining
Hide countertop appliances (toasters, blenders, air fryers)
Prep food out of view
Store extra dishware, serveware, and dry goods
Keep your main kitchen visually clean and minimal
It’s part utility room, part butler’s pantry, and 100% practical luxury.
Why Add a Scullery to Your Home?
Here in Janesville, where open-concept kitchens and entertaining are a way of life, a scullery offers the best of both worlds—beauty and function. It’s especially useful for:
Busy families who want to keep everyday messes tucked away
Avid hosts who entertain frequently
Homeowners who prefer clean countertops and organized storage
Design lovers who crave a hidden “wow” moment
Plus, sculleries can be as simple or as custom as your space allows—ranging from a walk-in pantry with a sink, to a fully outfitted prep kitchen with cabinetry, refrigeration, and task lighting.
Scullery Design from our Golden Ridge project.
What Should Go Into a Modern Scullery?
The beauty of a scullery is how customizable it is. Depending on your needs, you might include:
Additional sink and dishwasher
Open shelving for easy access to cookware or dry goods
Cabinetry that matches (or complements) your kitchen
Built-in coffee stations or beverage fridges
Task lighting and durable countertops for food prep
We often help clients style sculleries with the same intention as a kitchen—layered textures, curated finishes, and thoughtful design touches that make it feel just as special.
Sculleries Designed for Today’s Lifestyle
At Inspired Spaces, we approach each project with fresh eyes. A scullery doesn’t have to look like an old-world prep room. It can be modern, minimal, farmhouse-inspired, or bold and moody. Whatever your aesthetic, we’ll help you design a space that’s both functional and beautiful—right down to the cabinet hardware and lighting.
Let’s Design Your Dream Scullery
Ready to rethink your kitchen storage or layout? Let’s talk about how a custom scullery could elevate your home and make daily life just a little easier (and a lot more stylish). Whether you’re building new, remodeling, or just dreaming big—we’re here to help bring it to life.