Once a staple in prewar mansions and grand estates, the scullery is having a modern revival—and today’s luxury buyers are taking note. In the ever-evolving world of New York City real estate, kitchen trends reflect not just aesthetics but also how we live, entertain, and organize our homes.

From Closed Kitchens to Open-Concept Living—and Back Again

Over the decades, NYC kitchens have seen a remarkable transformation. In the heyday of co-op living, closed kitchens with staff quarters and private service entrances were the norm—emphasizing formality and separation. Fast forward to the early 2000s, and the rise of open-concept kitchens became synonymous with modern luxury. These expansive spaces flowed into living and dining rooms, perfect for entertaining and family life.

But today’s discerning buyers want more. As luxury residences grow more sophisticated, developers are once again embracing closed kitchens—but with a twist. Many now feature “eat-in” areas and a sleek, upscale design that balances privacy with convenience.

Enter: The Scullery – Your Kitchen’s Secret Weapon

A scullery is essentially a secondary kitchen or prep area—tucked just beyond the main kitchen—dedicated to behind-the-scenes tasks like storage, prep, and cleanup. It allows the main kitchen to remain a polished focal point of the home, ideal for entertaining.

Here’s why more buyers (and developers) are prioritizing sculleries in new construction:

• Hide the Mess
  Dishwashers, sinks, or even a second fridge can be tucked into the scullery, keeping clutter out of sight and your main kitchen pristine.
  
• Extra Storage
  Think custom cabinetry, open shelving, and pantry extensions—all in one discreet, highly functional space.

• Ideal for Entertaining
  Prep and stage meals out of view, while maintaining an elegant open layout for guests to gather in the main kitchen.
  
• Fully Customizable
  From sleek modern finishes to rustic farmhouse charm, sculleries can be tailored to fit any design aesthetic.

The Best of Both Worlds for Modern Living

For those with the space, a scullery combines the functionality of a closed kitchen with the visual appeal of an open one. It’s an increasingly desirable feature in luxury developments, offering homeowners a way to maintain a clean, curated environment while meeting the demands of everyday living and entertaining.

As a real estate agent who’s toured some of NYC’s most beautifully designed homes, I can say this: if space permits, a scullery is one of my favorite features. It’s luxurious, practical, and a standout detail buyers remember.

What’s Next for NYC Kitchen Design?

As new development continues to evolve, we expect to see more emphasis on multi-functional kitchen layouts, integrated storage solutions, and thoughtful separation between prep and presentation. The scullery trend is just the beginning.

Thinking of upgrading your kitchen—or buying in a new development that offers elevated design details like a scullery?Let’s talk about what features matter most in today’s market. Contact the Heather Domi Team to learn more about the latest luxury trends and how to find the perfect space that fits your lifestyle.