Updating your kitchen before the holiday season doesn’t mean undertaking a renovation. Instead, opt for simple upgrades, from practical organization to statement-making lighting, to give the space polish before its season to shine.
The best part: Many of our picks are available through local Fairfield County and Westchester retailers.
Contain Clutter
Creative storage never looked so good.
HOLD EVERYTHING
Small (and stylish) storage solutions make all the difference
Opt to coordinate with your pantry’s cabinetry and shelving by choosing containers in natural materials like bamboo and pinewood. mDesign x Home Sort lattice storage bins; $119 for set of three. West Elm, Westport; westelm.com
Evermill’s spices are packaged in Amber glass jars, which both protects the contents from light and heat, and offers a chic peek from your drawer. Core in-drawer spice rack with spices; $199. Williams Sonoma, Westport; williams-sonoma.com
Christopher Peacock knows all about customization and maximizing efficiency in the kitchen. Dowels keep dishes organized, easy to sort, and chip free.
Snack drawers need love, too. Remember to consider every single space—even in a large pantry—as California Closets has done here with custom dividers.
Glass canisters keep everyday essentials fresh and visible, for easy access. They’re perfect for everything from baking supplies to breakfast cereal. Glass storage canisters in three sizes; starting at $26. Terrain, Westport; shopterrain.com
Decorate
Now that it’s all sorted, let the styling begin
GLOW UP
Bold and bright ideas for your island’s linear lighting
Visual Comfort & Co. Collier Chandelier by Sean Lavin; starting $5,400. Greenwich; visualcomfort.com
Shiva, sculptural brass light pendant; $6,392.80 morghenstudio.com
Troy Lighting, Valier; $1,790. hvlgroup.com
HIDE & SLEEK
Fronts and fixtures get the designer treatment
Studio McGee created a secret pantry entrance behind a paneled door
Hanging your faucet from the ceiling turns it into a sculptural statement and ensures a truly clear counter space. Kohler Purist® Suspend ceiling-mount kitchen sink faucet; $1,878.75. Greenwich, Westport; kohler.com
Not into hardware? Not a problem. Keshaw McArthur Architects concealed Fisher & Paykel integrated appliances behind custom doors for a modern and seamless look.
No need to break up your storage blocks with unnecessary lines. Drawer inserts—as seen here at Ornare in Greenwich—can be made to measure and result in a more uniform look.
ISLAND TIME
If you have the space in your pantry, consider adding a second prep piece
Anthropologie’s Fern kitchen island includes the popular furniture collection’s signature feet and smart storage options. $3,498. anthropologie.com
Proper mis en place made easier, courtesy of deVOL’s Haberdasher’s prep tables. Starting at $21,060 and available in bespoke sizes. devolkitchens.com
Marble-topped, vertical cladding adds to the contemporary aesthetic of this beauty. Batten 84” natural oak wood kitchen island with storage; $3,999. Westport; crateandbarrel.com