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styling a mid century kitchen

Something I struggle with in my "mid century apartment" is styling my counter top. How much clutter is too much? Can appliances go on the counter? How many plants? Candles? Flowers? Pretty dish towels? Paper towels? Looking at the stylized photos, I find myself oscillating between minimalism and function. I still need to use my kitchen but I also want the clean lines and the high end ceramic dishware to be on display. I have scoured the internet for the best mid century modern countertops and while I don't expect to have a perfectly styled counter top at all times (complete with an Aesop soap container next to my sink) incorporating some of these elements could really add some umph!

This kitchen isn't really my personal style but I love the recessed appliances and the counters provide some useful inspiration. I like the greenery, the hanging gold kitchen tools, and how the paper towels blend into the backsplash.

jessie webster

This is a good example of how appliances can be stored on the counter. If you have a white counter, one to two colorful appliances work well in the space.

brian kellogg

Absolutely love this one - minimalist and the walnut cabinetry with white countertops is my vibe. I like the contrast of colorful cookbooks against the window. Very MCM.

rachel whyte

For those of you with a big ass kitchen island, take notes! I often see the matching soaps and a stylized cutting board. I also like the hint of open shelving (but not too much) that provides the opportunity to show off some pretty dishware.

@designathome

If you aren't working with much space, you can still style a countertop. I like to keep my oil right next to the stove. A plant adds some freshness.

I like the idea of storing one or two high-quality cooking vessels on the stove, especially if the object adds a pop of color to the kitchen.

A large plant can work in a kitchen with high ceilings.


How do you style your counters? Send me ideas!


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6B43B7EF-2622-4190-A653-31D537B6DBF9_1_2

Welcome to my midcentury musings...

I'm Madeline, a Northern Virginia resident settling into a midcentury hideaway in the suburbs. I love low-fi music, Negronis, and firing up the record player on Friday nights.

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