What’s old is new again: The secret room making a comeback

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Published Date 10/17/2024

No. You’re not in Downton Abbey. But when you’re looking for homes, one of the listings says the place includes a “butler’s pantry.” Will you run into a real butler in this house?

Nah. Jeeves won’t greet you with canapés and a glass of sherry. So what is a butler’s pantry anyway? Realtor’s Jennifer Kelly Geddes offers insight on these compact yet flexible rooms that add flair and function if you like to entertain.

So what is it? Once upon a time, in the grand homes of yesteryear, there existed a room sometimes known as a scullery. It was a treasure trove where families stored their precious silver, china, and grand serving dishes — so valuable that butlers would lock it up tight.

Fast forward to today, and butler's pantries are experiencing a renaissance. These charming nooks have found new life as staging areas for meals and stylish storage spaces. Strategically nestled between the kitchen and dining room, they're the perfect spot for keeping all your entertaining essentials. Fancier butler's pantries even boast their own dishwasher, mini-fridge, or sink.

These ante-rooms can help keep your kitchen clutter-free, act as a host's best friend for party prep, and showcase your finest dinnerware like a museum exhibit. Plus, they can be customized to match your home's style perfectly. But how can you create a butler’s pantry if you don’t already have one? Geddes says there are clever ways to create your own. You could transform a hallway between rooms, repurpose an empty nook, convert a closet into a mini-pantry, or use pocket doors or sliding panels for a hideaway effect. The possibilities are as endless as your imagination.

Butler's pantry doesn't have to hold the fancy stuff, however. It’s your ball game, so get creative with your space. Turn it into a cozy beverage bar, make it a pet paradise, create a snack station for the kiddos, or make it a wine bar. Whether you're a party animal or just love a tidy kitchen, a butler's pantry might just be the secret ingredient your home is missing.

Realtor, TBWS

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