If you’ve been following along here on the site, or on Instagram, you are well aware we’ve redone our kitchen (yes, again). While mostly cosmetic, we’ve made updates to ensure the space is even more functional. One of the ways we have updated the space is to reexamine where we spend our time and how we use the area. Gone are the items that, while beautiful, couldn’t meet the needs of our family of four. Beautiful products have always been a weakness of mine, but I’m trying my best to ensure I’m considering the long-term usage of each product I bring into my home vs. basing my choices purely on aesthetics.  

Before we had kids, we used to throw dinner parties. Nothing too fancy, but more of an excuse to get dressed up, use our elegant registered-for-our-wedding wine glasses, and cook something extravagant. I would spend afternoons cooking and setting the table to ensure everything was *just* so. 

More often than not, while the table itself was Insta-worthy, we’d all still be crammed into the kitchen, either while cooking or while pitching in to clean up afterward.

I took this into consideration when working with our contractor to design this kitchen. In addition to making it functional cooking and spacewise, how could we make it more inviting? A place we could use every day. Hence, the kitchen island. 

Not only is it functional (STORAGE!!) but it’s also a space for people to gather around. Even though our floor plan is somewhat open, there is something about sitting up at the counter vs. the table. I recently added the Tucker Counter Stools from Serena & Lily to the kitchen island, and they absolutely complete the space.

A classic silhouette that fits perfectly in our traditional/modern home (and the next remodel…kidding!), I chose the color black to stand out against the lightness of the kitchen. What clinched the Tucker Counter Stools for me was the back. With two little kids, I feel much better having a seat with a back, for safety reasons.

These days, our kitchen gets used more than ever. Between hosting a monthly Cookbook Club, spending afternoons on impromptu cookie baking, and eventually using the space as a dedicated homework location, I’m looking forward to utilizing the heart of our home more than ever. 

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Kate Arends

Kate is the founder of Wit & Delight. She is currently learning how to play tennis and is forever testing the boundaries of her creative muscle. Follow her on Instagram at @witanddelight_.