This traditional home feature is making a comeback – and for good reason. Explore the benefits of and design options for this hardworking space, then and now, and see how Woodhouse can incorporate a similar feature into your custom timber frame plans.
Once considered a relic of the past, the scullery is making a stylish comeback as homeowners rediscover its unique blend of practicality and timeless charm. Traditionally located near the kitchen, a scullery is a small, functional space intended for tasks like cleaning, washing, and storing pantry essentials and kitchen tools.
Sculleries are known by many names, including prep kitchen, back kitchen, utility room, cleaning pantry, and butler’s pantry. Today, modern timber frame homes have reimagined the scullery into versatile, luxurious spaces, offering enhanced storage and prep areas. Particularly sought-after in high-end homes, the concept has been making an appearance in some of Woodhouse’s latest designs, proving once again this timeless space can elevate both style and functionality.
With features like open shelving, custom cabinetry, and reclaimed wood details that add warmth and character, modern sculleries can combine sophisticated aesthetics with efficiency and practicality. Built-in appliances, such as dishwashers or wine fridges, and extra sinks provide convenience, and a dedicated beverage station enhances the space for both entertaining and day-to-day living. The incorporation of large windows or skylights invites natural light, creating a bright, inviting atmosphere that complements a home’s elevated design.
The epitome of modern luxury, a scullery (or whatever you personally want to call it!) is a natural fit in personalized, efficient and luxurious layouts, like all of Woodhouse’s designs. If your household could benefit from such a space, here are a few ways Woodhouse has seamlessly integrated them into timber frame plans.
Adirondack Cottage V3
An optional butler’s pantry, as seen on the first floor of the Adirondack Cottage V3, conceals kitchen messes and gives caterers a place to set up and stage. See more here.
Situated discreetly off the kitchen, the optional 6’0” x 10’x7” butler’s pantry in this efficient 2,689-square-foot design offers a sleek way to keep food preparation and small appliances out of sight. Plus, direct access to the garage makes returning from the grocery a breeze.
BigSkyRetreat
A spacious 12′-1″ X 8′-9″ pantry in the BigSkyRetreat makes it easy to stash, prep and store goods for entertaining and more. See more of this plan here.
Crafted for elegant, effortless hosting, this spacious single-story layout features an ample 12′-1″ X 8′-9″ dedicated pantry, just off the kitchen. Much like in the Adirondack Cottage V3, the space connects directly to the garage for easy unloading.
BigSkyEscape
The BigSkyEscape boasts a conveniently placed pantry just off the mudroom and garage. Learn more here.
In this luxurious single-story layout, a large pantry near the mudroom helps quarantine messes so the party can flow seamlessly between the kitchen and the connected outdoor kitchen.
GreatCamp
The GreatCamp features a proper butler’s pantry positioned between the kitchen and some of the hardest-working spaces in the home. See more of this plan here.
Alongside a powder bathroom, mudroom, and laundry room, the butler’s pantry in this design helps homeowners make the most of the space between the garage and the kitchen, which is wide-open to the dining and living spaces.
SeaCrest
Clocking in at nearly 12 x 10 feet, the butler’s pantry truly holds its own in the SeaCrest, meaning there’s plenty of room to hide countertop appliances and backup entertaining essentials. See more here.
Ideal for those seeking timeless style and modern luxury, the SeaCrest is a timber frame home ideal for both private retreats and elegant entertaining — particularly if you have breathtaking lakefront views. Within its 4,869 square feet, the plan includes a kitchen fit for a chef and a butler’s pantry for easy entertaining — a must on the coast!
Tellico
A spacious pantry doubles as the laundry room and mudroom, conveniently positioned just off the garage. See more here.
Designed for refined, single-level living, this 1,857-square-foot plan features a kitchen that’s connected to the entertaining spaces, so a spacious pantry just steps away makes hosting friends and hiding messes much easier.
Design Your Bespoke Timber Frame Home
Let us craft a home that reflects your vision of luxury and distinction. Browse our gallery of timber frame plans to explore curated designs that inspire, and connect with a Woodhouse expert to begin the journey of creating a masterpiece tailored to your lifestyle and refined taste.
