How to Decorate the Tops of Kitchen Counters

Apply the credo "Less is more" to countertop decor. That way you'll have a clear work space as well as an uncluttered look.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Flowerpots
• Fresh Flowers
• Hand Lotion Dispensers
• Liquid Soap Dispensers
• Vases
• Fresh Fruit
• Vegetables
• Fresh Fruit
• Bowls
• Crocks
• Knife Racks
• Platters
• Bowls
• Vegetables

1. Keep pretty canisters out in the open, but push them to the back of the counter so you still have ample room for rolling dough, chopping vegetables and the like.

2. Fill the dead space in countertop corners with an attractive vignette such as a lovely platter or bowl plus some colorful fresh produce. Apples, pears, lemons, limes, oranges, tomatoes and peppers are excellent choices.

3. Use attractive catchalls for cooking utensils such as spoons, spatulas and strainers if these items can't be kept in a drawer convenient to the stove. A pretty crock, decorative flowerpot or cute cookie jar can be ideal for the purpose.

4. Put your hand lotion and/or dishwashing liquid in decorative pump dispensers. That way they're handy and attractive.

5. Stow scrubbing gear such as brushes and steel wool pads out of sight. Place them in a bowl or other container under the sink.

6. Think of the countertop as valuable real estate when evaluating which small appliances should take up residence. The toaster and coffeemaker, if used daily, may deserve a place on the hallowed ground, but you might decide the juicer and blender can be relegated to the pantry.

7. Set out a small vase of fresh flowers. Push it toward the back of the counter where it's less likely to be toppled or broken.

Tips & Warnings

• Install a towel bar or ring for kitchen towels, and use it. Once you've established a place to hang the towels, they won't keep landing in a heap on the countertop.
• Hang a wall-mounted knife rack rather than setting out a knife block that takes up precious counter space.

on 7/4/2006 Only put items on the counter that you use every day (or that are strictly decorative--and ideally, keep the decorative stuff on counters to a minimum). This may require some creative thinking as far as storage goes, but it makes a huge difference in how open, airy, clean, and "done" the kitchen looks and feels. Try it; it's free, and the results are well worth the effort.

on 3/2/2006 A pretty flower pot makes an excellent container for storing extra knives, spatulas, spoons, etc. You can purchase one that matches your kitchen color scheme, or better yet; paint a clay pot to really personalize your decor.

on 11/22/2005 Instead of using plants or other stuff to fill the dead corner, use a gold fish bowl. To add even more life and a better look, you can fit a spotlight directly above the bowl. This will create more depth and reflect bright colors.