The Rise of the Scullery: Why Luxury Homes Are Adding a Second Kitchen

By: Justin Sharer, Owner of Sharer Design Group and Bespoke Cabinetry Expert

In today’s luxury home design, one of the most talked-about features isn’t a grand foyer or even a sprawling primary suite—it’s the scullery. Sometimes referred to as a “second kitchen” or “prep kitchen,” the scullery is making a strong comeback, and for good reason. While the main kitchen remains the showpiece of the home, designed for gathering and entertaining, the scullery provides a behind-the-scenes workspace that keeps the mess—and the stress—out of sight.

Traditionally, sculleries were a hallmark of historic estates, where household staff handled the behind-the-scenes work of cooking and cleanup. Today’s version, however, is less about formality and more about function. Homeowners are embracing this second kitchen as a way to balance modern entertaining with everyday living. In a scullery, you might find a second sink, dishwasher, refrigerator, or even a full range, allowing families to prepare meals, tuck away dirty dishes, or store bulk groceries without disrupting the beauty and flow of the main kitchen.

For those who love to host, the scullery is a game-changer. Guests can mingle in the main kitchen, enjoying wine and hors d’oeuvres, while the real cooking happens just a few steps away. Cleanup can wait, hidden behind closed doors, while the party continues in a clean and polished space. This separation creates a more relaxed atmosphere for entertaining, especially in open-concept homes where the kitchen is always on display.

Beyond entertaining, sculleries offer practical everyday advantages. Families with busy schedules find it helpful to have a secondary prep area for school lunches, meal prep, or coffee stations. Extra storage in the scullery also helps declutter the main kitchen, keeping countertops clear and elevating the sense of luxury. With pantries, wine storage, or even secondary ovens, the scullery is often customized to fit each homeowner’s lifestyle, blending beauty with efficiency.

As high-end homes continue to evolve, the scullery is proving to be more than a trend—it’s becoming a must-have feature. By pairing the elegance of a showcase kitchen with the hardworking practicality of a hidden one, homeowners can have the best of both worlds: a space that wows guests while making everyday living smoother and more enjoyable.