Pretty and Functional Kitchen Displays

I think it's pretty common knowledge that kitchens are the hub of the home and play a fairly big role in the overall impression your home gives. Almost any guest that comes to your home, will probably spend at least a little time in your kitchen. It doesn't really matter what style of kitchen you have, it would be a shame to have one of the show pieces of your home cluttered up with items that aren't very attractive.  I am talking, of course, about the dreaded cereal boxes, spice racks, and dog food bags that are necessary parts of everyday life.

My advice would be to invest in some inexpensive, but really attractive storage canisters.  Even if you find large glass jars, available at most dollar stores, you can keep cereal right on the counter without looking at Mr. Miniwheat every morning. Another plus to glass storage containers is that you will be able to see when you are running out of certain items. If you're a baker, large glass jars are ideal for storing bags of flour or sugar.  It's simple and beautiful. A series of three pieces in the same colour is very pleasing visually as well.

You can also use colourful vases to corral spatulas, wooden spoons, and other cooking implements.   You can keep the vase right next to your stove and keep your tools close at hand.  If you get a vase in a trendy colour, you've given your kitchen an instant update for a few dollars.

A final thought are more whimsical items.  Think about cookie jars in a favourite character or a container with dogs on it to house your dog treats, for instance.

The whole idea is that everybody's kitchen is full of stuff but it can be contained and it can be attractive.  Spend a little bit of time thinking about what you need to store and if you need to regularly and easily access these items.  If so, take this knowledge with you to your local Wal-Mart or HomesSense and have a look for canisters, jars, or containers you think are attractive and would 'go' with your current kitchen decor.  Look at items that are intended for other uses and you might surprise yourself.