It's hard to imagine a kitchen as inspiring as that in Martha Stewart's Bedford farmhouse. Every corner is a masterclass in strategic storage and replicable organization, including, perhaps most prominently, her cappuccino corner.
'I love a good cup of cappuccino – it can be a great start to the day and a pleasant pick-me-up in the afternoon. I have several espresso machines here at my Bedford, New York farm, and they get a lot of use, so of course I keep them very clean and well-maintained,' Martha speaks of her cafe corner via her blog.
Alongside her La San Marco espresso machine (one of the best coffee makers on the market, available at eBay), Martha has filled her shelves with meticulously stacked plates, cups, jugs, and teapots. It proves just how much you can fit onto open shelves when you stack strategically – and it's replicable in any kitchen, whether you're a coffee-enthusiast or not.
Shop Martha Stewart's Cappuccino Corner
This has perfected the French press aesthetic. The timeless design is practically flawless (and perfect placement on your top shelf, like Martha's).
A match to the coffee grinder seen in Martha's cappuccino corner, this model delivers very consistent, precise grinding thanks to micrometric adjustment and large 65 mm burrs. It's what the professionals use for a reason.
Perfect for a morning coffee or styled on open shelving, this cup and saucer stands out for its delicate form and subtly textured design.
These plates reinterpret the woven look of rattan and bamboo through a unique textured finish, creating a tactile, visually rich dinnerware set that complements earthy tones and organic table settings.
Inspired by Meletē, the Greek goddess of contemplation, this stoneware mug set is designed to reflect simplicity and mindfulness every time you enjoy a coffee. With its minimalist form, it's truly perfect for any shelf.
This jug’s graceful curves and glossy porcelain surface capture the essence of sunlit coastal tables, doubling as a chic vessel for drinks or a striking display for bright floral arrangements.
The busyness of Martha's shelves could risk looking cluttered, however, with the right styling (as she has done), they don't look overwhelming. Instead, they appear curated, functional, and so personal.
'“Curated clutter in the kitchen is about displaying everyday items in a way that feels both practical and personal. Instead of hiding everything in cupboards, more people are choosing to style the pieces they use most, moving away from the minimalism that has dominated kitchen and dining spaces in recent years,' comments Jonathan Clark, the creative director at Shelved.
Curated Clutter is having the ability to make your kitchen essentials display-worthy. From stacked bowls and cookbooks to chopping boards, jars and glassware, there’s really no limit.
As Jonathan explains, open kitchen shelves, just like those in Martha's coffee corner, are the perfect canvas for following such a trend.
'Open shelving and pantry shelving have become design features in their own right, offering the perfect opportunity to create intentional displays while remaining practical,' he says.
'Popular examples include dedicated coffee stations [like Martha's], neatly stacked ceramics, or small groupings of handmade or personal pieces that bring character into the space. Think of it like you’re recreating the kitchen of your grandparents, warm, inviting and full of character.'
Whether you’re a coffee devotee or simply someone who loves a welcoming, practical kitchen, Martha shows how thoughtful organization and curated displays won't fall out of style easily. By stacking, styling, and personalizing your shelves, your kitchen can become both functional and characterful – with or without a coffee-corner.
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