A few weeks back, we opened our mailbox to an always-pleasant surprise: the January 2012 issue of Martha Stewart Living. When we laid our eyes on the cover image (the very hard to ignore bright yellow and white New York City kitchen of photographer Annie Schlechter), something was instantly released from inside of us. Maybe it was a sigh, maybe it was a smile resulting from a little bubbling of joy, but whatever it was, it was good.
The fun, vibrant space sings “Spring,” with its classic yellow and cobalt blue color combination in a whimsical varying hue pattern. The more we looked at the image (which we actually found over on Apartment Therapyfrom a past story on the same room), the more we appreciated how non-standard it was, in particular, the storage options and shelving. We definitely subscribe to the “Display what you love, hide what you don’t” school of thought, and the second-tier shelve running the perimeter of the butcher-block-topped counter is an excellent way to achieve that.
We hunted down some of the elements of this kitchen, and pulled a few other fun pieces that would work in a similar space (or in your own home!) This year, resolve to taking design risks and adding some flair and fun to your home. The added personality will set your décor apart, and chances are, it’ll leave you smiling—or sighing with delight—with every glance.
Pfister Solo Polished Chrome Single Control High-Arc Kitchen Faucet.PfisterFaucets.com
In a bright kitchen, color takes center stage, so keep your kitchens simple and hushed. This modern faucet is functional, attractive, and subdued.
Williamsburg Butcher Block Co. Maple Butcher Block Countertop,lumberliquidators.com
You’ve heard us say it before, but we’ll say it again: we’re a big fan of mixing butcher block countertops with your existing material. Choose butcher block for the counter that separates your kitchen from another room, or for your island. A great source is Lumber liquidators for color options, though Ikea is also a sensible choice with sturdy beech.
Ikea Numberär Countertop, ikea.com
Merola Tile Penny Round Mosaic Tile in Cobalt, homedepot.com
After the yellow cabinetry, this penny mosaic backsplash was the first thing to catch our eye. The monotone circles were unique and playful with an air of custom.
C. Wonder Ikat Dinnerware, cwonder.com
With open shelving, like the case in the pictured kitchen, all it takes is some pretty dinnerware to draw the eye. The ikat pattern in these bowls and plates from C. Wonder will surely have people asking you “Where did you get those?”
West Elm Square Lacquer Trays, westelm.com
Keeping your countertops clear of clutter is key to having a vibrant kitchen look elegant, and there’s no better way to organize and compartmentalize than trays. West Elm makes a rainbow of lacquered colors, though were partial to the silver-leaf like variety.
We hope you enjoy pulling together elements of this collection. Please share in the comments which item you’re most likely to add to your kitchen.
