How to Keep Your Kitchen Beautiful as Your Family Grows

The kitchen is your home's hot spot — and everyone wants a part of it. Key ingredients for a smart space? A functional workflow, durable materials, and a palette you can style around.

Paul Costello
When You've Got... A Baby
With an infant in the house, dedicated work zones are especially crucial. Flank a lawn-themed bottle-drying rack next to the sink for both function and fun pop of color.

Boon grass bottle rack, booninc.com; Munchkin pacifier, munchkin.com


Paul Costello
When You've Got... A Baby
A high chair has limited use, of course. But to get more bang for your buck, choose a height-adjustable model like this one, which converts to a booster seat for 3- to 5-year-olds. Look for a sturdy style that won't clash with your décor, plus removable or easy-to-clean parts.

Sprout high chair, oxo.com; Munchkin trainer cup, toysrus.com


Paul Costello
When You've Got... A Toddler
You've already childproofed your space by moving all hazardous items out of reach of tiny hands. Still, toddlers like to help, so consider giving them a dedicated drawer or cabinet (come on, you can spare one!) stocked with cooking supplies of their own. A stash of pretend food and baking tools will keep your chef-in-training occupied — and still in sight — while you get dinner ready.

Items available atperfectlysmitten.com


Paul Costello
When You've Got... Elementary Schoolers
Busy parents know command stations are a must. With a small swath of counter space and an organizing caddy or two, you'll corral permission slips, receipts, and reminders and never find yourself scavenging for a pen again.

Desk organizer, magnetic chalkboard, containers and planners, target.com


Paul Costello
When You've Got... Elementary Schoolers
Spills and sticky fingers shouldn't stop you from picking stylish pieces that match your home's scheme. For effortless wipe-down and long-term durability, equip your kitchen with seating upholstered in an indoor/outdoor fabric like Sunbrella.

Lunch containers and bags, skiphop.com


Paul Costello
When You've Got... Tweens
If math equations and essay-writing are often on the weeknight agenda, your kitchen table will likely do double duty as a desk. The marble top on this one has a hard finish and light color — factors that make scratches less visible.

Nate Berkus gold folders, target.com


Paul Costello
When You've Got... An Empty Nest
When the baby bottles, high chairs, and home stations are no more, you can finally get back to your kitchen's starring role: cooking central! Nothing freshens a kitchen like a few fresh herbs in your favorite vintage pots.

Fred E. Trout vintage herb vases


Next
15 Ways to Rethink Kitchen Islands

By A.J. Hanley; photographed by Paul Costello; styled by Barbara Schmidt

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