Not Just For The Butler Anymore: The Butler's Pantry

Think a butler’s pantry is only for those with a butler? Then think again. This convenient addition to a home is not reserved for those with staff members at their beck and call. In fact, for those of us who do all the prep work ourselves, when entertaining guests, a butler’s pantry is a great option! The butler’s pantry has come a long way from its original purpose of keeping one’s silver safe. (I bet you can’t guess who kept the key.) Now a butler’s pantry can come in all shapes and sizes and will greatly depend on the amount of entertaining, and the type of entertaining, that you do. If you’re just needing a space to keep the extra linens, table clothes and fancy serving dishes, then you’ll be looking for a small butler’s pantry with some cabinets and counter space. This will give adequate storage without taking up too much realty in your new home. However, if you are the master of entertaining, a butler’s pantry can help a lot more than just storage! A wet bar in your butler’s pantry will make it a perfect place to prepare the mixed drinks for an evening with friends. You can have all your ingredients and an ice machine right within reach and not in the way of the meal prep in the kitchen. Prepare drinks, wash out glasses and even refill the appetizers without having to head back into the kitchen. And if wine is your forte, a wine refrigerator can be incorporated to tailor perfectly to your needs. As in any part of building your new home, there are many options available, you just need to choose what is right for you. What will make the most sense in your home and what will make you most happy? If that means dedicating a little extra space and money in your new home to have a fabulous butler’s pantry, it will be worth it.