As cliche as it may be to say the kitchen is “the heart of the home”, for many of us this is true! The kitchen is where we congregate, converse, and create. It’s where the action happens.
Upon entering, you hear music, smell familiar scents (like today, chicken stock slow-simmering on the stove), and then of course…see random members of the family milling about.
But this isn’t necessarily unique to just our kitchen. Anyone can create this welcoming environment! From your first apartment to long-time family abode, we’re here to share the most important elements to make your kitchen space inviting.
Light and Bright
Having good lighting in your space is essential. We are fortunate that our kitchen is filled with an array of windows and natural light, so we get to soak in that precious morning and afternoon sun that you’d die for around this time of year. Having good lighting, whether natural or created, helps to open up your kitchen and create a cleaner feel. However, if you don’t have this element, opt for a light paint color – white is always a great option – to brighten up a space.
Warmth and Texture
It’s also inviting to add elements that lend warmth and texture to the room. When you think kitchen, everyone’s idea that comes to mind may be a little different, but I think it’s safe to say that we all want to feel like our kitchens have some life and character to them, no matter your design style.
Our go-to piece in our kitchen that lends to the feel of warmth and texture is our counter height white oak table that is weathered from constant call-to-duty. Again though, something as simple as displayed breadboards can do the trick. Textiles are another easy way to add interest without clutter. Choose colored dish towels, or a patterned rug for in the front of the sink.
Pare Down Essentials
I’m addicted to anything having to do with cooking and the kitchen (no surprise to anyone who knows me). Food52 and Williams Sonoma are my version of Home Depot. Yet, I have learned over the years to choose what to pick out of my online shopping cart wisely. Less clutter equals a more efficient kitchen. Despite the appeal of the latest and greatest gadget, I like to stock those that can multitask over a one-trick pony.
The small electrics and tools I reach for on repeat are my mini Cuisinart food processor, Kitchenaid stand mixer (we have the matte white edition, couldn’t find the link anywhere!), Vitamix, Microplane zester, salt and pepper grinders, wooden spoons, whisk, vegetable peeler, handheld juicer and can opener, and three good knives – paring, bread, chefs, and I recently added a sushi knife (which is great but not essential).
When it comes to dishes, we have one set of pure-white dishes (seen in the photo above) because you’re able to create any mood you want with that one singular set.
Greenery
Having natural elements like potted plants or fresh flowers add a sense of calm and grounding to the kitchen. Plants like English Ivy, succulents and herbs (especially basil) thrive in an indoor environment. In a space where many of the components are hard-edged, such as countertops and appliances, the addition of plant life detracts from these utilitarian aspects. The added bonus? You have fresh herbs right at your fingertips!
We hope these kitchen tips have helped you to look at your own space with a pair of fresh eyes! No-ones kitchen is perfect, but making those little changes (that you may not have even noticed before) to pare down and simplify your space might make all the difference!
xoxo Kim & Tess
