The Kitchen You Covet

Some would think that as a food blogger, I have an amazing kitchen. The truth is, my kitchen is small, my appliances boring, and everything right down to the cutting board could use an update. A few summers ago a friend and fellow foodie had her kitchen re-done and now, I'm not afraid to say that I covet her kitchen. In fact I love it so much I might just have to snag some ideas for my own kitchen reno. The other day she graciously invited me for tea and let me snap some pictures. If I was being honest I'd tell you that I plied her with some candied ginger, but let's keep that between us, okay?

One of my biggest pet peeves is having to get on my hands and knees to reach the things stashed in the back of my baking cupboard. These drawers actually pull out, so you never have some hiding in the back corner again. I love how you can have all your supplies right at your finger tips!

A kitchen doesn't have to be big to have a lot of space. This kitchen actually isn't all that large, but touches like a microwave under the counter in the island and well placed appliances make it exceptionally functional. Every bit of space is used well. I love the little breakfast nook overlooking the garden, with a selection of cookbooks in a low shelf close by, right at your fingertips to browse through over your morning coffee.

Speaking of coffee, Anne says that she uses her coffee maker more with a little spot dedicated just to coffee making, right by the fridge so the cream is always close at hand. On your left is a beautiful display cabinet full of Anne's glassware, and turn around to find a mini wine cooling fridge right behind you.

Over by the stove are some touches you wouldn't expect or even think about.  Until you try them and discover how functional and fun they are. On either side of the gas stove are two narrow shelves that slide out, which you can stock with all sorts of foodie goodies.

Or, take a look at this really cool shelf that pulls all the way out so that you don't have to be digging through cupboards looking for that lost pot lid again!
 

What I love the most is the big island which gives you a great section of countertop to cool piles of cookies, knead bread, or even set out a buffet style lunch. Every bit of space in the kitchen is put to good use, which is a plus in my book. I like pretty, but I want functional too. What's the point of looking good if you can't use it or run out of space all the time? This kitchen not only looks amazing with it's granite counter tops and bamboo cupboards, it works well.

For now, I have to be content with what I have, which is functional, but not perfect. Fortunately I have a husband who is handy.  He recently decided to make me a rolling island to use as a baking center. I just might have to swing by Anne's kitchen now and then to get some ideas for little touches to make my island the most useful piece of kitchen equipment I have.

At least until I get my own updated kitchen, that is. Maybe Anne will let me borrow hers once in awhile....