The Prep Kitchen is a functional solution to crowded open concept kitchens
Prep kitchens—also called prep pantries—offer a secluded spot to prepare food and drinks, away from the hustle and bustle of open concept kitchens.
The kitchen is a very important room in a house. It’s where meals are made, where many of us start and finish our days, and one of the most utilized rooms in a home. It’s no wonder that homeowners like to put a little extra functionality When space is available, designers incorporate the prep kitchen into their kitchen designs.
This idea of an ancillary workspace isn’t new. The 19th century saw the introduction of ancillary workspaces in American and English homes. butler’s pantries This term is still being used today to describe the storage of silverware, china, and serving pieces.
Today, we’re seeing prep kitchens, also known as prep pantries, become increasingly popular. This modern alternative to a butler’s pantry is no longer just reserved for the richest (although it does require a home with some space to spare): It is becoming an increasingly popular choice for homeowners of all kinds who entertain regularly or just want to keep their kitchens clutter-free.
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What is a Prep Kitchen?
Prep kitchens are also known as prep pantries. They are separate spaces attached to the main kitchen that are specifically designed for food preparation. Prep kitchens are similar to regular pantry but have more counter space, shelving and often appliances such as dishwashers, stoves or coffee makers.
So what’s the difference between a butler’s pantry and a prep kitchen or pantry? While both are additional rooms to the kitchen designed for storage and preparation, modern butler’s pantries tend to be smaller walk-through areas or hallways where glassware and barware is stored and that lead to the dining room. Butler’s pantries are primarily used as places to prepare drinks or stage food before serving, and may have a bit of counter space along with things like a bar sink or drink/wine fridge. Prep kitchens, on the other hand, are more spacious and can be used to perform all types of food preparation and daily kitchen tasks. They are not affected by any other activities, such as homework, working remotely, entertaining, or anything else that might take place in an open-plan kitchen.
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Prep Kitchen Functionality
“In modern times, prep pantries are attractive to those who entertain frequently since it keeps the ‘mess’ out of the main kitchen,” says professional organizer and pantry expert Melissa Gugni.
Every host knows that guests are bound to gather in the kitchen, no matter how you prepare it. Even if your floorplan is not open, they will still be there. The kitchen is the natural heart of the house. It is a great idea to have a separate area where you can prepare food and drink while still keeping the kitchen clean.
A prep kitchen can be helpful for some households even when you’re not entertaining.
“I am finding that larger families like them, too, since they keep the kitchen chaos confined to the side. I have helped design prep pantries with lower drawers and cabinets customized for kids’ snacks and things that are easy for them to grab,” Gugni says.
What to Put in a Prep Kitchen
A good prep kitchen is one that is customized to the homeowner’s needs and lifestyle, according to Gugni.
“For entertaining, a fridge, ice maker, wine fridge, oven, and dishwasher would be ideal,” she says. “For a family, a blender, toaster, coffee maker/grinder, baby food maker, bottle warmer, and other appliances (particularly ones that don’t look great aesthetically!) can fit well.”
Prep kitchens must have ample counter space for food preparation, enough storage, and a sink. Gugni also recommends integrating your dry goods storage within your prep kitchen: “It is both practical and can look so beautiful—I am partial to open shelving on one wall for jars of grains and beans and spice” she says.