How to Decorate Kitchen Counters—Without Cluttering Your Prep Space

Keeping it simple and efficient is key.

If you've never thought much about your kitchen counter decor, we're here to change that. Choosing the correct elements—whether handy, decorative, or a combination—can add some much-needed personality to the space that arguably is the most used in your home. It's where friends and family gather, where morning conversations are had, and midnight snacks are enjoyed, but it can also be a place to showcase your personality.

Remember that this space can quickly become cluttered, so keep your vision clear and concise. Here, we've gathered our best ideas for kitchen counter decor.

Related: 20 Smart Storage Ideas to Declutter Countertops Around Your House

Corral a Collection

Use your countertops to house your culinary collections—whether cookbooks, cutting boards, or platters leaned against the backsplash for display. Handed-down wooden spoons, a stack of collected dishes, and etched drinking glasses on a small tray can also provide a moment of interest or conversation when guests gather in the kitchen. Refer to the less-is-more mentality so your kitchen counter decor doesn't add clutter.

Bring Nature In

Consider adding a dose of the great outdoors in a space where we spend so much time. Go with cut branches or dried flowers if you want all the glory and (almost) none of the work of a bouquet. They'll last far longer than their flowery counterparts. Tall branches make a statement on an island, but shorter stems can be just as pretty if used as kitchen counter decor below open shelving or cabinetry.

Limit Your Color Palette

Keep the palette to two or three colors to ensure a small kitchen doesn't get too busy. If kitchen counter decor creates a monotone effect, it will keep the space from looking fussy or chaotic. Group similar-hued items together for an even tidier look. Here, a pop of green works as a secondary color, adding just a splash of color this kitchen needs to make a statement.

Make It Minimal

Varying countertop surfaces provide visual interest and can warm up a kitchen in a flash—no preheating needed. When mixing countertop materials, keeping the rest of the kitchen counter decor minimal will keep the focus from getting lost or hidden behind the little details. The same can be said if you have one countertop material throughout your space but prefer for it to be the statement maker. Thinking about where you want the eye to fall when entering the kitchen can help inform your countertop decor.

Create a Coffee Station

Make your countertops more efficient with a coffee or beverage station. With your essentials at the ready, your mornings will be a breeze. To keep cups or mugs from looking haphazard, corral them on a small tray so the arrangement looks intentional. Add a sugar bowl, a small box of tea bags, or other accouterments if space allows. If not, place them in a cabinet just above the countertop for easy grab-and-go access without taking up valuable countertop real estate.

Decorate Above Countertops

Keeping your countertops clean isn't just about a nightly tidy-up—it's about utilizing what's above and below, too, because we all know there's no such thing as too much storage in the kitchen. If you have open shelves, be sure the arrangements are well thought-out. Arrange section by section, stepping back between each vignette to check that they work well together and aren't too busy. Ensure your countertops have thoughtful decor to prevent the space from looking too packed.

Bring in Color

If your kitchen color palette features neutral or earth-tone shades, use kitchen counter decor to bring in a burst of color. Flowers, fruit, and autumnal branches all fit the bill and are easy to swap out should you decide to play up another color.

Related: Earth-Tone Paint Colors Recommended by the Pros

Indulge Your Green Thumb

A kitchen herb garden plays double duty. It brings a lively bit of green into the space while keeping these essential ingredients right where you want them—front and center. As long as you have adequate light and keep up with their care, there's no reason you can't have a countertop herb garden that thrives all year long. Unfortunately, the same can't be said for that glorious porch container of basil that positively withered away at the first sign of frost.

For more Better Homes & Gardens news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter!

Read the original article on Better Homes & Gardens.