Are you starting to feel that the design of your kitchen table is more than beautiful?
Let’s fix that! Kitchen table decor can be your secret weapon to transform that dull, functional space into a design statement.
As a new home design consultant, I’ve seen too many counters filled with clutter or decorated with faux decor.
Let’s just say we’ll leave the plastic grapes and fake cheese in the past. Here’s your ultimate guide to kitchen counter design ideas, buying the right items, and arranging them elegantly.
I’ll show you how to choose accessories that truly enhance your kitchen’s design style whether it’s a country or modern kitchen. No cheese allowed. Get ready to turn your counters into the centerpiece of your home!
This post is about how to master your kitchen table design
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Decorating on a budget
If you’re designing your kitchen counters on a budget, look no further than your pantry. In this photo, three Pellegrino bottles, retailing at about $2 each, were used, along with four drinking glasses, a tray, and faux greenery.
I imagine you already own 90% of these items. I recommend using Pellegrino glass bottles; They are taller, provide a deeper green color for contrast, and add height variation.
Set up a coffee station
Imagine setting up your own little coffee station right on the countertop – it’s not only practical, but also very stylish!
In this image, the designer started with an elegant round tray with a glass bottom; It is perfect for organizing everything neatly. On this tray, place two cups of pure white coffee and an aluminum espresso maker that adds a beautiful shine to the area.
Glass jars at different heights for visual enjoyment; They are great for holding coffee beans and other essentials.
And for a touch of organic magic, add a few biscotti crackers. The texture they provide, combined with the deep, rich brown color of the coffee beans, makes the entire preparation gorgeous!
Make it a modern farmhouse
When designing your kitchen tables for a modern farmhouse look, aim for a mix of chic, modern and rustic charm.
In the photo, you’ll see white ceramic bowls of varying heights and sizes arranged on black acadia wood cutting boards.
This simple, minimalist setting complements modern kitchen decor, while rich acadia wood and textured ceramic add the rustic charm synonymous with farmhouse style.
Smaller spaces
When you’re in a small kitchen with limited cabinet and counter space, every piece of countertop is valuable. It’s important to strategize for your countertop decorations to be functional and beautiful.
This photo shows a clever use of a smaller countertop. A gold serving tray with handles elegantly stores simple white plates and a matching bowl holds three gold mesh strainers. Adding an organic touch is a topiary touch, and an antique brass jug adds personality and unique flair to the setting.
Olive oil makes everything better
Here’s another great example of how you can quickly channel your inner designer and stylishly arrange your kitchen table in just 10 seconds, using items you already have.
In this photo, the interior designer used two bottles of extra virgin olive oil and placed them next to three stacked bowls, as well as a color-coordinated cookbook.
To make sure your kitchen accessories look intentional and not cluttered, using a cutting board or tray can help pull the arrangement together, giving it a more intentional and cohesive look.
Keep it modern with sculptural art
Modern kitchen design is all about simplicity, clean lines, and uncluttered beauty. When choosing decor for modern kitchen countertops, choose elegant but simple elements.
For example, think of abstract sculptures in polished silver, as shown in the photo. Placed on either side of the range, these sculptures act as the perfect contemporary accent against the backdrop of the all-white kitchen cabinets and countertops.
They add visual interest without overwhelming the space, complementing the minimalist ambiance while providing a stunning artistic touch.
Use cookbooks as a statement piece
Cookbooks have long been a staple of kitchen countertop decor, and for good reason. After all, if it’s already on the counter, why not incorporate it into your design?
Cookbook stands have evolved greatly as well, offering endless options for finishes and styles. Pictured, the wooden cookbook holder with gold metal edge complements the faucet and soap dispenser beautifully.
Additionally, warm wood tones blend well with hardwood floors, creating a cohesive and attractive look.
Bring the outside in with organic materials
In this coastal-themed kitchen, the island features an oversized white oak cutting board under an elegant marble dome.
White cases hold oak cookware, and a cookbook holder adds practical style. A single succulent plant in a glass pot completes your organic kitchen setting.
Soften hard surfaces with plants
As you explore these beautiful kitchen counter design ideas, you may notice a common thread: the strategic use of plants.
Almost every attractive kitchen table setting includes greenery. Why?
Because plants are excellent at softening the hard surfaces of countertops and backsplashes, adding liveliness and freshness to the space.
Not only does it add a needed pop of color, but it also has the unique ability to improve mood and reduce stress.
Plus, plants are perfect space fillers. With their varying heights, they often serve as the crucial link in your countertop collection, balancing visual flow and enhancing the overall aesthetic.
Be organized with jars
Jars are not only stylish accessories to decorate your countertops, but they are also practical for storing everyday essentials.
Get creative with your jars – mix prints, solids and even clear ones.
In this transitional kitchen, glass apothecary jars on the kitchen island were used for desserts, while the surrounding base cabinets feature elegant solid white gingerbread jars.
Just a tip: If you use clear jars, make sure the contents add visual appeal to the space and keep the glass smudge-free. Always keep the internal components filled for a tidy look. Items that look great in clear jars include:
White Life Savers Vienna Sticks Coordinated Colorful Jelly Beans Coffee Beans Gum Balls Biscuits Cookies Cheerios
Kitchen counter design corners
Do you have an odd L-shaped corner on your kitchen counter? Yes, those corners can be a real head-scratcher. But don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! I’ve compiled a list of items that are not only visually appealing but are also extremely practical for that tricky corner.
Check out the photo here: See the elegant black reclaimed wood dough bowl? It is designed in the shape of a bread dough bowl and fits perfectly in the corner, making it a stylish and practical addition to your kitchen.
Kitchen Corner Ideas: Top Picks for
COOKBOOK CORNER: Arrange your cookbooks in a stylish holder or small shelf, making them both decorative and functional.
Wine Decanter: Place an elegant wine decanter in the corner, perfect for enhancing your wine tasting experience.
Ornamental plant: Place a large vase or potted plant in the corner to beautify and bring life to the space.
Mail Station Tray: Use a stylish corner tray or organizer to store mail and keys neatly.
KitchenAid Mixer: Place your KitchenAid mixer in the corner, ready to use but out of the way.
iPad on a stand: Set up your iPad on a stand for easy access to recipes and entertainment.
Kitchen Surface Lamp: Add a small lamp in the corner to add warmth and style.
Framed Art: Display framed art on a countertop easel or at an angle on a table for a decorative touch.
BAR TOOL SET: Organize your bar tools into a stylish tool set, perfect for making cocktails in the corner.
Incorporating the natural beauty of marble
If you’re hesitant about adding marble countertops to your kitchen, try marble kitchen accessories instead. They provide a timeless look without the full commitment.
In this transitional kitchen, a marble cutting board sets the tone for more marble accessories on white quartz countertops.
Play with small appliances
Use everyday items like small kitchen tools to design your kitchen tables. The KitchenAid mixer is a popular choice, and is now available in different colors such as gold, sky blue, parachute green and almond to match your cabinets and countertops.
Color-coordinated flat-top tea kettles are another great way to incorporate small appliances into your countertop decor.
Do you want to add vintage charm to your kitchen? Try an old-fashioned roaster or SMEG drip coffee maker. The nostalgic 1950s vibe, with curved lines and vibrant colors, creates a design statement and sparks conversations about the good old days.
Elegant kitchen counters with trays
No matter what items you plan to design your kitchen counters with a basic decor piece like a tray or cutting board, they help anchor the space and define the setting of the items.
Elegant counters with cutting boards
I love the two-tone combination of the black wood cutting board with the red tones in the rosewood, creating a mid-century vibe.
Read my previous post about cutting board display ideas in the kitchen. I’m sharing with you more than 20 clever ideas on how to design these panels at the heart of the home.
Frequently asked questions about kitchen table design
How to display things on the kitchen table?
Start with a foundation such as a tray or cutting board. Then assemble three elements of different heights on the foundation piece. Common items used include small plants, countertop lamps, jars, and cookbooks. This creates a stylish and functional countertop display.
Pro tip – Don’t forget to add texture, like a wooden cutting board with a decorative ceramic vase.
What looks beautiful on kitchen counters?
Jars and cans
Cutting boards
Small counter lamps
Framed art
the plants
Butcher block knife set
Abstract kitchen table design
To effectively line up your countertops, start with a centerpiece like a tray or cutting board.
Group three items of varying heights, colors and textures on this basis to create visual interest.
Consider using small plants, countertop lamps, urns, and cookbooks for a mix of function and style.
Incorporating everyday items like KitchenAid mixers, olive oil, and Pelligrino bottles can add character and charm.
Using wood can also bring warmth and timeless appeal to your kitchen.
Using these tips, you can create a beautiful, organized, and inviting kitchen space.