New House

What Is a Butler’s Pantry

Credit: Kvanum

A butler’s pantry is a small room or area in a home that is typically used for storage, food preparation, or serving meals. In large homes, a butler’s pantry may be separate from the main kitchen, while in smaller homes it may be adjacent to or even part of the kitchen. The term “butler’s pantry” is thought to have originated in the 18th century, when homes began to have separate rooms for servants to live and work in. Today, butler’s pantries are often used as coffee stations and a place to store small appliances. They can also be outfitted with a sink, dishwasher, and small refrigerator, making them the perfect place to prep food or wash dishes.

This leads me to our new house plan and our huge pantry. After we saw the first floor design from our architect, I pointed to the pantry and asked Henry what in the world is that space. He laughed and explained it was a butler’s pantry. Of course, I had been in older homes before where these are actually common and I’m sure many people today build homes with butler pantries included, but for me, it just seemed like a waste of money, and you know we are all about budget and where to save.

The more I thought it through and about how it could be functional for me and our family, I kind of liked the idea and we kept it in our plan. I liked the idea of keeping all the small appliances in there to make the kitchen look a little cleaner. It also seemed like it could be useful for prepping if we were hosting a large group of people.

Thinking and dreaming now of all the different ways and things I could put in the new pantry, I started looking for inspiration. I am going to share a few ideas I have with you.

What is the Difference Between a Butler’s Pantry and a Regular Pantry?

You may ask, what is the difference between a butler’s pantry and a regular pantry? A butler’s pantry typically has more counter space and cabinetry than a regular pantry, and it may also include a sink and/or refrigerator. I tend to think of a butler’s pantry as a room that is larger and multipurpose filling the role of a place for food prep while also being used as storage. While the regular pantry is more for storage only.

Great Place to Store Small Appliances and a microwave

A panty is a great place to store small kitchen appliances. We have even thought about putting our microwave in the panty. I had asked this question on an Instagram post a few days ago and many agreed this would be a wonderful placement. This would allow more space on the countertop and would create more of a clean uncluttered look in the main kitchen.

Credit: Kristi Spouse Interiors

I love this butler’s pantry and the placement of the microwave. We do not use our microwave a lot, so this seems like the perfect setup for us.

Credit: Thomas Bernard Concepts

Extra Refrigerator/Freezer Storage

Extra refrigerator and freezer storage is much needed for larger families. Although I’m not one to keep tons of extra food on hand, we do seem to always need more refrigerator and freezer space. This is normally due to our overabundance of what my husband calls “delicious waters” and my son’s obsession with ice cream and pizza rolls. By the way, my husband is referring to carbonated flavored waters…lol.

Credit: The House that A-M Built

Great Way to Stay Organized

A pantry is a great way to help you keep organized. Having designated places to keep every item will help kids find things more easily, cut down on waste, and in general just look better.

Credit: Studio McGee

Perfect for Hosting

A butler’s pantry comes in really handy when hosting parties or family events. It is a great place to do the behind scenes prep work. This will allow you to use your main kitchen for entertaining. It will keep everything looking nice and the main countertops are free for entertainment pieces.

Credit: Kvanum

Is a Butler’s Pantry Worth the Extra Cost?

There are pros and cons of spending the extra money for adding on a butler’s pantry. One of the biggest reasons that I feel it is worth the extra money is the storage space. This extra storage space allows you to buy groceries in bulk and save money. The butler’s pantry also gives you extra counter space to prepare meals while not messing up your regular kitchen, this is especially beneficial for entertaining. Another great thing is the option and extra space to house your smaller appliances such as a microwave, coffee machine, and even refrigerator.

A butler’s pantry can be a great addition to your home, especially if you have a lot of extra space. It will cost a little extra considering you will need extra space, countertops, and maybe even appliances, but can be a great investment for selling. Buyers always love a butler’s pantry! It can also be a great way to organize your kitchen, and make it easier to prepare meals. If you are considering adding a butler’s pantry to your home, it is important to weigh the pros and cons.

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5 Comments

  • Reply Zoe Hunt

    It’s going to be such a nice space, especially for entertaining! I love entertaining, but I hate trying to get all the food ready AND clean all the dirty dishes before guests arrive. And you can keep extra food prepped in the back and bring it out as needed!

    April 22, 2019 at 4:34 pm
    • Reply Brooke

      Hello Zoe! Exactly my thoughts. After thinking about how much I may actually use it, I really started liking the idea of having one. We are pretty excited about it.

      April 22, 2019 at 5:33 pm
  • Reply Donna Versluis

    So, Booke, it’s been a year. Do you LOVE your Butlers Pantry? Have non typical butler pantry items infiltrated it? I’m house shopping and put an offer in on a house with a very nice butlers pantry. Reading your article is making me really hopeful!!

    May 14, 2020 at 4:19 am
  • Reply Donna Versluis

    So, Brooke, it’s been a year. Do you LOVE your Butlers Pantry? Have non typical butler pantry items infiltrated it? I’m house shopping and put an offer in on a house with a very nice butlers pantry. Reading your article is making me really hopeful!!

    May 14, 2020 at 4:20 am
  • Reply Clara

    Hello!
    I’m curious what your pantry ended up like and how much you use it. Have you done a post on it once you’ve lived in the house?

    December 23, 2020 at 6:49 am
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